It's your party, you can cry if you want to!

Once you’ve decided the place and time and who you’re committing your life to, now you can plan to your hearts content and the restraints of your budget. I’ve often told Brides that this is their day and if they want to somersault down the aisles then I'll help them do it. I’ve seen too many who have stressed out letting everybody else tell them what to do and it turns out to be someone else's dream and not theirs. “Easier said than done”, you say? Well, you are right! But it can be done. Start by envisioning your day and write it down. Every thought that comes to mind about your dream wedding should be scribbled down on a piece of paper or napkin or on the back of a receipt. Express these ideas to your mother and fiancée (if you’re lucky enough to find that avocado or melon who cares about the whole wedding thing). Don't be afraid to put your foot down to silly ideas that don't complete your vision. But....PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, don't become a Bridezilla. It is all about you AND your groom but it is the rest of your life and relationships you have to think about too. Vendors will react to your attitude, if you're poopy, then they will be too. If you are assertive but kind and sweet, you'd be surprised at what the vendors could do for you. As far as your bridesmaids and family members go, the worst thing you can do is to be bossy and cause hate and discontent among them. This should be a happy occasion and if they are being poopy....kick them to the curb. Really! It's not that big a deal. Tell them all at the get-go when you ask them to be your attendants that you can't have yuckiness and if there is you will just pare down your list. You don't need the bad vibes. So if you have to, then do it, but do it with a loving heart!
I have to say it is well worth any money spent to hire a planner or better yet a "Day-Of" coordinator. You need to be able to have a neutral 3rd party person who is not involved in the wedding emotionally to help your day go off without a hitch, dealing with vendors and guests and photographers and any last minute snaffu's. I am available! (hint, hint)

My best advice to you is "less is more"...I know, people say that all the time, but don't get caught up in too many details that it takes the fun out of your special day. Make choices that allow you and your Groom to shine and not be tangled up in it all. Be happy about your choices and think simple. The simpler the better. Not necessarily in regards to your groom choice of course.