Planning pointers

So, several people have been asking me to keep track of the must do's and don'ts of wedding planning. Of course, this is my opinion! :) So here goes -
DO
Hire a fabulous florist. This isn't something you want to scrimp on. You can do beautiful arrangements for fairly cheap if you include a lot of pretty greenery accented with some of your favorite flowers. I chose to use different types of ferns and other greenery that have a vintage feel.
My florist: Scott's Flowers in Stephenville, TX

DON'T
Feel like you have to spend a {ton} of money on the perfect dress. However, I would recommend staying away from the massive boutiques that have hundreds to thousands of dresses. Go with a smaller boutique that offers a few designers that you're interested in.
Helpful tip: Buy TONS of bridal magazines!! You'll find every style, brand, and price range of dress and you can begin to figure out what your dress style is. Many times, a certain brand will catch your eye.
I actually found my dress at Bliss Bridal Salon in Fort Worth, TX. I found "my" brand in every magazine I looked at the night before, set an appointment, and found my dress almost right away. I would recommend trying a couple of bridal salons, though, because this is a BIG decision and you need to be at perfect peace with the dress you choose. :)

DO
Book a baker that makes delicious AND gorgeous cakes. Notice I said {delicious} first. It is a cake, after all. People are going to eat it, and I think it's pretty important that it tastes good.
My Baker: Your Cake by Design, Donna Hamer, Aledo, TX

DO
Set a budget. Boy, are we learning this the hard way!! Yikes! There is a LOT you have to spend money on, and there is also A LOT you don't have to spend much money on. It's important to figure out what is more "important" (shall we say) and go from there.

DO
Hire a fantastic photographer for engagement AND wedding photos. After the wedding, you're going to want things to remember your day by, and what better than beautiful photographs? Choose an experienced photographer that can show you past wedding work.
My Photographers:
- Engagement Session: Derrick Tribbey Photography, Dallas, TX
- Engagement Mini Session: Kim Hawkins Photography, Abilene, TX
- Bridal Portraits & Wedding Photos: KT Photography, Fort Worth, TX


That's all for now! More tips later, I promise. :) For now, I must get my beauty rest.