Wedding planning can seem exciting but many times brides and their families find themselves at a loss as to what step is done first, second, etc. Shows and jokes about regarding how reasonable women somehow transform into "Bridezillas" and make everyone surrounding them miserable with their incessant demands and extreme meltdowns. Not every bride goes insane and not every wedding goes awry.

Is it better to send electronic wedding invitations or send traditional invitations in the mail?

This is the age of the internet. That being said it is still more common, and considered proper etiquette to mail invitations along with an RSVP and a self-addressed stamped envelope. If you are trying to save money, consider making the invitations yourself. Of course if you are intending to send out hundreds of invitations, this could be a bit overwhelming.

For intimate, informal weddings it is perfectly acceptable to utilize an online invitation service. Many are free and will even notify you when someone accepts the invitation as well as how many people they will be bringing with them.

What tasks does a wedding planner handle?

A professional wedding planner can handle everything you want, or nothing you want. Their main goal is to provide a stress free environment for the bride. Most wedding planners will handle the wedding, the reception and help choreograph all of the individuals in the wedding. He or she can help you in picking out decorations, flower arrangements as well as offer plenty of tips and advice on how to make the day beautiful.

Should I serve a full meal at the reception or just serve finger foods?

The general rule of thought is this: an afternoon wedding requires only light snacks or finger foods. A wedding that takes place after 5 o'clock should serve something more substantial to eat as guests will be feeling hungry that late into the evening after the ceremony is over.

Do you have to follow these rules? Absolutely not, but mention on your program or invitation what type of reception will be following the ceremony. This allows the guests, if you are only serving cake and punch, to eat earlier in the day.

Who pays for the wedding and reception?

Traditionally the bride's family paid for the entire wedding except the rehearsal dinner, which was paid for by the groom's family. In modern society it is often the couple who pays for the majority of the wedding. This could be due to the fact that many people are marrying later in life or have been married once before.

How long should a wedding and reception last?

The majority of weddings last anywhere from thirty minutes on up to an hour, depending on how detailed the ceremony is. A wedding reception is typically from two to four hours depending on whether there is food, music and dancing. The length of either is up to you.

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