What is essential to a great wedding...and what isn't?

Should it Stay or Should it Go?

Programs in an antique suitcase.  Photo by Lo and Behold Photography.

When you start planning a wedding, all ideas should be on the table!  It's your day and should be as close to your vision as possible. Many of us have dreamed of this day. We have specific ideas of a gorgeous, absolutely flattering dress, a bounty of flowers, delicious dinner, amazing pictures, heartfelt, tear-filled exchanging of vows. And on and on.

As you start adding the costs of all of these small details that exist in your wedding fantasy, it can be overwhelming to see the bottom line.

One of the best things your wedding consultant can do is help you EDIT.

Here are the essential ingredients of a good wedding:

1 - A fiance that you are totally in-love with.

2 - A space that suits your guest list (more on that later) and the attitude of the wedding.

3 - Clothes that fit perfectly and that you feel great wearing  (no matter the color, shape or size).

4 - An experienced and reliable photographer who will capture the mood of your wedding accurately.  My favorite is Deirdre at Lo and Behold.  http://www.loandbeholdphoto.com/

5 - Good music that creates atmosphere. 

6 - A memento for your guests.

7 - Something for your guests to eat and drink.  It does not have to be a four course, gourmet feast.  Even heavy appetizers can do the trick if you plan it right.

8 - The presence of everyone you love there with you to share your happiness.

Love sign made out of plastic sign letters, an old breadbox and some battery powered twinkle lights.  Genius!  Photo by Lo and Behold Photography.

The rest is negotiable.  Hell, you don't even need a ring... you could get tattoos or bracelets or whatever suits you.

Don't be afraid to buck tradition.  Weddings are different these days - and believe it or not, there are no wedding police. No one is going to report you if you don't have a big fancy cake, a champagne toast, or a pristine white gown.

It's your day. Don't be persuaded to spend money on things that don't matter to you.  Splurge on those things that are important to you.

So brainstorm like crazy and make the list of all the things you want when you start.  Then go back through that list and circle the 5 or 6 things that are the most important to you. If you are like me and like order, you could even prioritize every item on that list from most to least important.  Try to imagine that day with just those essential items from your list and I will bet you would be happy with just those things.  The rest is icing on the proverbial cake.

What is most important to you and what tops your list of essential wedding day must-haves?

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