What to do before you "I DO"

Now that you have said yes, here comes the stress! Or maybe not. Here are some helpful tips for newly engaged couples.

1. Get Organized

This is something that many couples fail to start with. Getting organized is Step #1.

(After taking sometime to enjoy being engaged of course but not too much time!)

Set a date, decide how many guests you will invite, set a budget, pick a venue and start moving forward. There is so much to do that there will be times when you will just want to run to the nearest Justice of the Peace. Not to worry, everything will be fine - keep your planning stress-free by getting organized. Whether you decide that you are not getting married for 11 months or if you decide that your wedding is going to be in 3 weeks, time is of the essence. So once you have decided that you will soon be saying "I DO" figure out "HOW TO".

2. Get Glamorous

Yes, that right brides! Look for that one in a million, "I look gorgeous and I don't want to take it off" dress. Start your search by looking for gowns that are flattering to your figure and that express your personality and style. You will want to browse the internet, look through magazines and set up a few appointments to go to a couple boutiques to try them on.

(Helpful Tip: It may be a good idea to only take a couple close friends or your mom as you will want someone that will give you their honest opinion.)

Remember that this day is about you and you want to feel comfortable in what you are wearing while looking absolutely stunning at the same time. Also, try a dress that you maybe wouldn't necessarily pick off the rack, it just may be the one or it may help you make your decision. Have fun, and trust me you will know when it's the ONE!

3. Get In Tune with your Vision

Maybe you have known all your life that you wanted to get married in a castle carrying pink roses being driven away in a horse drawn carriage. Or maybe you just know what you like and haven't really thought about what you want. Either way, sit down and talk with your future hubby and outline what is most important to each of you. Is it really important to you have your wedding ceremony in a church? Does your significant other really want to have a live band and the reception? Are photographs really important to the both of you? This will help you when creating your budget and also in determining the design elements for your special day. You will want a day that expresses your unique individuality as well as your oneness as a couple. Talk to each other, decide what is most important go from there.

4. GUEST LIST!!

Will your wedding be large, small or somewhere in between? Decide how many guests you will invite to share in your special day and witness your upcoming nuptials. This is key when researching venues for your ceremony and reception. You will want a space that can accommodate your guest comfortably and that fits your vision and style. So get a pen and paper start jotting down those names that you don't want to forget. Check out the guest list manager on The Knot.

**Brides and Grooms BEWARE: this is the number one reason that couples argue during the wedding planning process...it's practically normal. Almost every couple will have a little tussle or a heavy weight battle over who and who not to invite. "And this too shall pass."**

5. Get A Venue

Securing a venue should also be one of your top priorities once you are engaged. Depending on the time of year that you want to get married and how high in demand your selected venue is will determine just how much time you have to book it. Do some research. Find out if the space can accommodate the number of guests that will be attending. Check availability. Set up an initial walk-thru for you and your significant other. Ask for a proposal, suggested caterers list, guidelines and restrictions, payment schedule, refund policies, etc. You will want to know this before putting down a deposit and signing the contract. Be thorough when talking with the coordinator at the site. Once you have decided, BOOK IT! Put down your deposit to secure your wedding date and you're all set.

You've officially started the wedding planning process. Whew! Now that you've accomplished that you will see that everything else will just fall into place. Remember the first step to stress-free wedding planning is: GET ORGANIZED! Happy Planning...

Need help planning your special day? Weddings By K offers unique personalized wedding services for an unforgettable event.