2009 Resolution Roundup

How did this happen?! I know 2008 was a total page turner, but all of a sudden here we are starting down the barrel of 2009. A new year is like a bright and shiny penny. It's full of optimism and good intentions. Resolutions help lay the foundation for 'to do' lists and ideas for that ideal lifestyle.

But when it comes to planning your wedding, we suggest five go-to resolutions to ensure your sanity stays in check and your friends remain that way.

5.) Stay true to yourself. I have come across a few brides who have shared their stories of purchasing a gown that just wasn't The One and then later found themselves trying to sell it so they can go back out there and track down The One That Got Away. When choosing your gown, there will always be a lot of opinions to consider: the salesperson, the maid of honor, the soon-to-be-mother-in-law, the sister, the bridesmaid, and the mother of all opinions, Mom. Ultimately, it is your gown, and it is your ultimate party dress. You will be the one who wears this gown to celebrate the first day of your new life with your new husband.

Be patient, find your inner Zen. I guarantee there will be a time when the dress you are trying triggers this voice in your head which says, "This is soooooo ME!". That voice is your gut and your ultimate opinion. When you hear it, you can thank the very important people in your life for theirs, but gently remind them that yours is the one that matters most.

4.) Stay realistic. So many resolutions revolve around weight loss and there are too many brides who attempt to diet their bodies down two dress sizes in time for their Big Day. Always purchase a dress that fits you today. You can always alter it down tomorrow! Planning a wedding is a wonderful experience, but putting yourself in a do-or-die fight to loose the lbs is too stressful and not worth the battle.

3.) Stay on track. Another resolution many bring into focus for a new year is to get organized. This, of course, is always easier said than done. A run to Target is all you need to get this party started, and what girl doesn't want an excuse to shop at Target?! A three-ring binder and sheet dividers are a great start. Keeping all of your contracts in once place will minimize any confusion as the Big Day nears and all of your vendor contact information will be in one place. A small amount of time spent organizing will save a huge amount of time just when you need that extra time the most.

2.) Stay in the moment. Ultimately your planning and hard work should not over shadow this special and memorable time in your life. That can be hard to remember between the shuffle of vendor appointments, DIY projects, invitations, and oh yeah, that 60 hour work week you're trying to squeeze in the mix. Do your best to stay in each and every moment, reminding yourself to see the forest despite all those dang trees. It will slow you down and put a smile on your face. After all, you're getting married!

1.) Stay connected. Let's be honest...your fiance is a lucky guy! It's important though to remind him that you're a lucky girl too. Make the time to stay connected to one another throughout the planning process. Despite the deadlines and decisions, the time constraints and budget talks, keep him close and the planning fun. Laugh through the drama and love each other madly. Remind him that all of this planning is because you found each other, despite all odds to the contrary. That does deserve a party, now doesn't it!