Planning your wedding!

So Prince Charming just proposed and you are aptly floating on ‘cloud 9’. Though step 1 of ‘getting engaged’ is done – you’re now faced with the ginormous task of PLANNING YOUR WEDDING!

Where do you start? What to do you do? For most of us, we’re tying the knot for the first time. Here’s the TWG down low:

1. BUDGET – Don’t blow the bank but don’t skimp either. Remember, marriage is FOREVER… so if you need to spend a little extra then do so. If you do find yourself a little short, it is normal to ask family members to help out. In some cases, loans can be considered too (just don’t call the ‘ah long’!).

2. WEDDING SIZE – At the end of the day ask yourself ‘What are you comfortable with?’ However, this isn’t a decision you make alone… talk to your fiancé, parents and the ‘in-laws’. Remember what happened with Carrie and Mr. Big! Communication is always key.

3. So now you know how many peeps are coming and how much you’re spending. Next up – what will your THEME be? Vintage? Glamour? Traditional? If you don’t have a wedding planner, make sure its something you can do yourself.

4. The DATE – In Asia, times & dates play an important role due to our different cultural beliefs. Whether or not you are superstitious, some couples play the ‘be safe than sorry’ card. If there’s a special date you’re thinking of – decide early. You may find there are many other couples thinking the same!

5. The WEDDING PLANNER (optional) – A planner not only helps you organize the entire wedding, but can also help you get special deals depending on the strength of their ‘connections’. Fees range from a few to over ten thousand.

6. VENUE – Be it a church, hotel or restaurant… you need to shop around and BOOK early. Popular hotels and their ballrooms can be booked up to a year in advance for wedding receptions.

7.  Choose your CELEBRATE (a pastor, Imam or Hindu priest for example). Usually, a token sum will be given unless specified.

8. The GOWN. There is no doubt in my mind that every bride wants to look beautiful. And having the right frock will get you halfway there. Start looking at least 6 months before the date so you have ample time to get it tailored and have a good look around.

9. The RING – Ahh, the ultimate symbol of love. As a rule of thumb, wedding rings are generally 3% of your total budget. Some couples do get matching rings though bear in mind you may not want your husband donning something too fancy! When it comes to diamonds, always look for the 3 c’s – colour, cut and clarity.

10. Find a PHOTOGRAPHER/ VIDEOGRAPHER. Consider a professional since this is special occasion, and make sure that they are reliable so that you don’t have to worry about forgetting your wedding, for years to come.

11. Send out INVITATIONS. DIY or go to a professional. Usually, they are sent 6 – 8 weeks in advance and add a personal touch. Don’t send a mass email like Emma did in ‘Bride Wars’.

12. FOOD TASTING – It’s most likely you’re holding the wedding reception at a restaurant or hotel ballroom. If so, it’s wise to demand a couple of food testing tryouts before the big day. It also makes for a good excuse to have a dinner with friends!

13. CAKE! Cakes can range from the reasonable to the cost of a designer dress. There’s no set rule either – they can be fun, serious or just an apt reflection of you guys as a couple.

14. The ENTERTAINMENT – A wedding reception is always more fun with some entertainment. Whether you hire a band or dj… it’s perhaps not a good idea to just press play on your ipod. Let the professionals do their job! And if you want to make your wedding dance one to remember… practise some special moves ;)

15. The BACHELOR/ HEN’s night (optional but advisable) – Your last night of ‘fun’. Whether you hire a stripper, bar hop or simply have some fun with your friends at home… the most vital ingredient of this night – be with close friends!

16. Holla – it’s time to get MARRIED!! Congratulations!