Coming across that dazzling pair of gold earrings that your sweetie hid in your apple pie? Nice surprise. Finding that one of them is missing? Not so much. Sometimes even the most expensive surprise anniversary gift idea can backfire. When it works the way you planned it though, their reaction is priceless.

But how do you do that? How do conjure up an anniversary gift idea that’s perfectly suited to your mate without asking them directly “what do you want”? If your answer is “just give them the cash”, you’d best enjoy this anniversary. It could be your last.

Or you may be tempted to throw caution to the wind and go with your gut, but so was the earring guy. Instead, close your eyes, open your ears and shock her, in a good way, with the perfect anniversary gift idea that makes her say “ahhh”.

Show Your True Colors

On the surface, this is one of the simplest approaches to finding a tailor made anniversary gift idea. Use their favorite color as a starting point. Of course, to do that, you first have to KNOW their favorite color. And for guys, that requires you to leave your comfort zone and immerse yourself in a new experience: Paying attention.

Color Her Impressed

Look at her clothing and accessories and notice what shades tend to recur. Is she true to blue? Then a glittering sapphire bracelet may be an ideal fit.

Or maybe she prefers to go green. Pick out a dazzling pair of emerald earrings and await the accolades.

Does she often look pretty in pink? Treat her to a stunning pearl necklace that begs the question “how did he know?”

Ladies, the same approach will work wonders for your man, and since you’ve already mastered that whole “paying attention” thing, you’re halfway home in your search for an anniversary gift idea.

Maybe it’s an elegant watch with a face or strap to match his preferred tone, or a pair of classy cufflinks in the color he favors most.

Whichever route you go, overcoming your color blindness can offer eye-opening results in pursuit of the ultimate anniversary gift idea.

Playing the Numbers Game

What’s in a number? How about the key to an unforgettable anniversary gift idea and, in the process, your loved one’s heart?

Women are often pleasantly surprised when you remember your anniversary; let alone what number it is. So leave her doubly impressed by matching the gift to the material that is traditionally associated with that anniversary year.

Of course, this is easier for some years than others. Silver for the 25th or pearl for the 30th is pretty straightforward, but what about the first anniversary and its connection with paper? Hand her a pad of writing paper and you’re liable to get a “Dear John” letter in return.

Fortunately, there’s also a list of modern gifts for each year to go along with the traditional ones, probably compiled by the guy who went the “paper” route.

For example, the first anniversary is also linked with clocks, and it’s not too big a stretch to extend that to watches. What better way to celebrate your first year together than with gorgeous his and hers watches? They’re fashionable, functional and somehow apropos for the couple that’s still learning what makes each other tick.

Even if they won’t admit it, everyone loves a surprise, so incorporating it in your next anniversary gift idea will make a lasting impression. Let your imagination free and dare to be different.

1. Get up super early. Have a special breakfast prepared in advance (croissants, danishes etc..) and set the timer on the coffee maker. Take a short trip to watch the sunrise together.

2. When your special someone gets home, have a makeshift massage area ready to go (the bedroom works best) complete with candlelight, soft music and a nice scent (perhaps a scented candle or incense). Offer a romantic massage and pamper them (and maybe they’ll return the favor!)

3. On a day when they are not pressed for time, hop in to the shower and offer to wash their back. Maybe shower time can be expanded into a little more time for the two of you to connect.

4. Enjoy an indoor picnic by the fireplace (if you have one – if not, for ambiance you can light a lot of candles). Have everything prepared – a picnic basket, blanket, flowers – anything you would use for an outdoor picnic. Of course, a nice bottle of wine would be nice (and you’re already home so enjoy!)

5. Kiss. If you have been together for years, you may have forgotten how fun making out can be!

6. Make a surprise dinner for your special someone. Send them an invitation at their office with the date (tonight), time and place (your place). Make it romantic with candlelight and flowers and a nicely set table. Best of all, prepare a dish you know they’ll love.

7. Go to the movies – but don’t just sit in the movies. Pick one that has been out for a while and attend a matinee. Chances are you may be the only people in the theater. Feel free to kiss a little, hold hands and enjoy your snacks in your private (or semi-private) “home” theater. If you’re in the mood, turn it into a “double feature.”

8. The alarm clock rings on a Saturday. Kids? Plans? How about sleeping in for a change! If you can make it work, stay in bed together and just enjoy spending time with one another. If it’s not possible, than let your special someone sleep in, bring them their morning coffee and breakfast in bed. One of the most romantic things you can do is to do something thoughtful — on a day when it is not expected.

9. Bring home flowers – whether it’s for a man or a woman. Again, do it on an unexpected day.

10. Buy a dozen roses and attach a note to each rose with a reason why you love your significant other. Scatter them on the bed or place them all over your home for them to find.

11. If you have a sexual routine (same positions all of the time or same day of the week) – change it. The unexpected can be very romantic. Spice it up (check out the Kama Sutra for some ideas)

12. Buy an unexpected creative romantic gift. It doesn’t have to be expensive and it doesn’t have to be for a birthday, anniversary or Valentines Day. Just because is reason enough.

13. Prepare a romantic bath with lots of bubbles, candles and bath and body products (massager, loofah – they even make things like chocolate shower bars). Bring in a bottle of wine or champagne and just sit and relax. Two people that love each other – no clothes – confined space.

14. Pull out some photos of the two of you and place them in frames. Place them around the house/bedroom.

15. Book a local hotel room. Send your special someone an invitation to a romantic evening and have them meet you at the hotel. When they knock on the door (or you can send them a key in advance), have the room romantically decorated (rose petals, candles, flowers, gifts, bath tub decorated).

16. Book a session with a local photographer for Boudoir photographs.

17. Find a nice secluded place to watch the sunset. Bring a bottle of wine and some appetizers / fresh fruit

18. Do something that will really make them laugh (laughter can be an aphrodisiac) — even if it makes you the butt of the joke.

19. Give up something that you want to do with friends and tell them that you would rather spend the afternoon/evening with them.

20. Set up a camping trip so that you can spend some alone time together and have everything prepared (all they have to do is come with you – no packing involved!)

21. Take a class together (cooking, dancing, guitar – something you would both enjoy)

22. Whether at home or out at a restaurant, if their favorite song plays – get up and ask them to dance!

23. Is there something they have always wanted you to do with them but you have been too scared (climbing, skiing, sky diving etc..). Just do it!

24. For married couples, renew your vows and celebrate your love.

25. For couples that are dating, celebrate an unusual anniversary (anniversary of our first kiss or anniversary of when I first fell in love with you)

26. Have sex in an unusual place (it will be unexpected and exciting)

27. Help. Without them asking. Help do the dishes. Help with the kids. Run some errands. Do, do, do.

28. Every now and then, give them a call at random to let them know you are thinking of them and that you love them (and don’t follow it up with “oh, why I have you on the phone could you do something for me?”)

29. Write them a love note and hide it somewhere where they won’t find it until they get to work (or some other place outside of home)

30. Talk about them – to them. Not talking about the normal day-to-day but speaking about things that really have meaning to your special someone (their hopes and dreams). Listen attentively.

31. Try to help them achieve those dreams in any way that you can.

32. Have a movie night at home and watch a favorite romantic comedy

33. For a woman, buy her lingerie and leave it in the bedroom after you leave for work with a note – and a promise – for a romantic evening. OR buy her a dress (the really good shops can help you with sizing) and treat her like Cinderella. Have her meet you for a special evening out (dinner, theater)

34. Call in to a radio station that plays love songs (many are syndicated) and dedicate a song to them

35. Do something unexpected that will be a romantic surprise. For example, secretly take guitar lessons and one night, pull out a guitar and serenade her. Or if you can’t dance, take dance lessons and one night, take her out dancing.

36. If you want to be adventurous in the bedroom, purchase a romantic board game and enjoy some fun, romance and games.

37. Do a romantic activity together (horseback riding, hot air ballooning, wine tasting, tandem kayaking, scenic hike etc..)

38. Stress can really damage a relationship. Have some fun and take the day off and go to a local amusement park together.

39. Plan a weekend away – and take care of everything so that they need only hop in the car and go with you.

40. Repeat. Don’t let the romance in your relationship die. A good relationship takes work. Don’t put it on auto pilot.

Reminiscing one of the most important and memorable day of you and your partner’s life can be as romantic and as joyful as the day itself-your wedding day. Leaving all your day-to-day problems and worries behind and just treating him or her like it’s your special day. Anniversaries can make old romances spark and new love arise. So here’s a list of things you can do to make it special for you and your partner.

· Stay at home.Take the day off and surprise your love one by waking him/her up with a breakfast in bed. Just spend the day at home talking with each other; you might learn new things from each other. You can also do the things you like together, play a romantic game or watch the television. For lunch, instead of him/her cooking for you, for a change, surprise your partner by cooking a delicious meal. At night, a candle-light dinner will be just romantic, food cooked with love, a couple of roses at the table and a bottle of wine to go with it.

· No mountain higher. For the adventurous lot, staying at home may be a little boring. Why not celebrate your anniversary at the top of a mountain? You can climb a mountain or two. Perhaps, this time you can propose again at the top of the world, it sounds so romantic. Surely, you and your partner will cherish the experience forever.

· Watch a Movie. If you don’t want to trek and you also don’t want to just stay at home, you can go watch a movie. Or perhaps something different. Have you tried watching theater plays or maybe even some stand-up comedy shows? What’s important is to enjoy the one day that you can spend with your partner.

· Go back in time. Do you remember your first date? Or the place you/your partner proposed to you? Surprise them by visiting those places again. Some couples reenact what happened on their first dates or on the day of the proposal. You can do the same. Try bringing back all the memories and all the sweetness that you and your partner showed to each other perhaps new romances will be made.

· Amusement Parks. When was the last time you and your partner visited the amusement parks? For the busy ones, anniversary may be the only day you can do so. Just let go of all that is bothering you and enjoy the moment with you partner. Feel free to be young again.

· Day at the Museum. There are a lot of museums to visit. Have your partner pick one and just spend the day discovering new things. If you got time, why not go museum hopping? Of course be sure that your partner enjoys it.

· Long walk at the beach.One of the most romantic scenes that anyone can think of probably is a long walk at the beach while the sun sets. Of course if you don’t feel like walking, just sit and relax while watching the beautiful scenery. Just talk about all your personal feelings. Prepare something to eat while you’re at it.

· Invite the whole clan. Many prefer to throw a family get-together on the day of their wedding anniversary. Invite your family and friends at your special day. Share them the happiness that you and partner have on your anniversary. By doing so, they’ll share you the stories and fun and maybe some gift too.

· Flowers, nothing beats Flowers. For the busy couple, getting a day off may not be possible. Why not buy some gifts for your partner. Flowers can be and will always be one the most romantic gift you can give. Roses, which symbolizes for love, are perfect for the occasion. Have a perfect bouquet of roses or maybe just one elegant long-stemmed rose to give to your partner on your anniversary. You can buy them at your local flower shops or you can also buy them online and just have them delivered to you. The truth is, if you’re celebrating you’re anniversary at home or going to the movies or just watch some beautiful sceneries, giving flowers to your partner can make your day more romantic. With roses, you’re anniversary can never go wrong.

Anniversaries can surely be a refreshing day for a couple. A special day for you and your partner to remember the good times you had and make new memories as well. In any case, the best gift you can give is the time and the love for your partner. With love and care for your partner, your marriage will surely be one that will last a life time. In doing so, much more years of anniversaries will come.

There are special occasions in an individual’s life which calls for celebration. They could be birthdays of a family member or close friend, the date a house was bought, first romantic date, first anniversary of marriage – they are best known as milestones in life etc. The gift should be such that the concerned person should be reminded of the same day that became the one of the best occasions of life.

Individuals, residing in foreign countries, can have their family members rejoice on an anniversary by clicking the option of send anniversary cake anywhere via an online cake website. Since it is the norm today, to send a specially designed cake for any occasion, directly to the doorstep, it is vital to have knowledge of some points that can adorn the festive mood.

The online website should have a worldwide reputation of being one of the best in its taste, quality and delivery service. In this article information will be given on the five useful tips for choosing the best anniversary cake to be sent to India.

1. Choose The Flavour For The Anniversary Cake
The flavour should suit the occasion and the nature of the individual. There are a whole set of choices for anniversary based cakes on every well-renowned cake baker websites. In case, the design is not satisfactory, there is always an option provided on any cake servicing website to have a personal touch.

2. Number Of Persons And The Type Of Anniversary Cake
Kindly imagine, the individual takes every minute detail in consideration to send anniversary cake to India. If the numbers of attendees are more, it will be a major embarrassment for the entire family. Ordering any cake will be easy, but how about ordering a Fruit cake or Chocolate cake of the right size? Every attendee will get a share of fruit, bless the occasion and return home fulfilled.

3. Choosing The Best Anniversary Cake Vendors
Checking their website will also give more worthy ideas and numerous anniversary cake types to grace the grand gala event.

4. Budget
In recent times, stiff competition has forced many businesses to offer the best quality products at reasonable prices. It is wise not to bargain, as the cake will get the best dressing, there is, in the form of fruits, toppers etc. The result of taking the initiative for the specific landmark should be fulfilled.

5. Placing The Order
With tumultuous incidents happening all over the world, it is better to order the cake before the anniversary date. That way, the individual can ensure the cake is designed as per the requirement. The online company, on its behalf, instead of scrambling at the last minute, can breathe easy, offer the best service and have the cake ready in all its creativity and fest delivered at the right time.

The 50th anniversary is a big milestone that you cannot forget to celebrate with your parents. Your parents have made all the sacrifices they could at length to ensure the family stay together. On your parents’ 50th anniversary, you should definitely bring along a gift to show that you support and honor them. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to send your acknowledgment to them. The following are the top twelve 50th wedding anniversary gifts ideas for parents.

1. Framed Mom and Dad Poem

Framed Mom and Dad Poem is a great way to say thank you to your parents. Poem can represent you in expressing how much you appreciate of the sacrifices they made while raising you up. They are always there to help you to stay strong in all the trials and tribulations. It is a simple gift yet brings meanings to your parents. They will surely be touched to tears when they see the poem and be proud to hang it on the wall.

2. Personalized Coffee Mug Gift Set

Personalized coffee mug gift set is a popular gift to celebrate your parents’ wedding anniversary. It is a practical gift and your parents will think of you when they drink from the mug. On the mug, you can personalize it with your message telling them how thankful you are to them. Reading the message on the mug will put a big smile on your parent’s fire. It will cheer up their mood as they laugh out loud upon it. You can also customize the mug by putting your name at the bottom of the message. The coffee mug gift set usually comes with 2 mugs with the same design.

3. Personalized T-Shirt for Mom and Dad

Personalized t-shirt is casual and your parents can wear it whenever they are doing their daily chores. You can order the same custom t-shirt for each of the family member if the entire family is celebrating the anniversary with an outing. On the back of the t-shirt, you can add personalization on what relationship the member of the family has to your parents. On the parents’ t-shirt, you can customize with terms like “hubby” and “wifey” and the date when they get married.

4. Personalized Family Tree Painting

Tree is a symbol of life. A thriving tree will have lots of birds nesting on the boughs and singing songs gaily every day. Similarly, a personalized family tree painting represents a happy home. It is a way of saying thank you that your parents has done a great job in raising you and your siblings up successfully. There are many ways of customizing the family tree painting, for example, including the name of your father and mother, the date they get married up to the current date and also you can note that they are celebrating their 50th anniversary of love on the painting.

5. Personalized Wedding Knife Set and Cake Server

You can give a personalized wedding knife set and cake server as a present for your parents’ 50th anniversary if they enjoy baking. The delicate knife comes with a decorated handle that makes your parents proud when he/she holds it to cut the anniversary cake. It can also be used to cut a birthday cake or just any cake. The anniversary cake knife set will capture your parent’s hearts and uplift their mood. It will make them just want to keep having more of the cake.

6. Anniversary Ornament

Anniversary ornament makes a perfect gift for your parents if they are celebrating their anniversary in the Christmas season. It is a tradition to giving your family member an ornament to decorate on the Christmas tree during the Christmas season. An anniversary ornament is cheap but an efficient way to say thank you to your parents. Every time your parents see the ornament, they will be reminded of the little things that you have done for them. Some ornaments can be personalized with your own picture and message.

7. Personalized Key chain

Personalized key chain offers a practical value as a 50th anniversary gifts for your parents. They will always have to bring along their keys when they go out. You can make it special by customizing it with a picture or engrave their wedding date on it. The unique personalization will help to bring back the sweet memories of their anniversary.

8. Potted Plants

Potted plant is a wonderful way to congratulate your parents for making it thus far. A flowering plant also helps you in expressing your love to your parents. Plants works as a natural retreat to reduce stress in the daily chores, for example, office, and household chores. They make a more traditional gifts than cut flowers which will only stay fresh in a few days. With potted plants, your parents will be able tend to it, for example, watering, fertilizing and trimming it to keep it in a healthy condition.

9. Golden Gift Baskets

Golden gift basket is the best for celebrating your parents’ golden 50th anniversary. Golden gift basket features a golden design on the food packaging. There is also a golden ribbon that wrap around the basket. By giving your parents a golden gift basket, they will have a whole basket of goodies to enjoy weeks and months after the anniversary date. Vintage theme gift basket that features vintage painting on the food packaging will also be a perfect gift basket for your parents.

10. Watch

Watch is a meaningful anniversary present for your parents’ 50th anniversary. Watch sends the message my time is your time and that each will be missing one another every second, minute and day. It also shows that the pair is willing to sacrifice their time for one another. Since it is an anniversary gift for your parents, make sure you buy two watches with matching design. Watch is also a practical gift as your parents will be able to wear them whenever they are outside.

12. 50th Anniversary Solid Brass Keepsake Plate

The 50th anniversary solid brass keepsake plate is the perfect gift for the lucky couple who have made it to the 50th milestone of their marriage. The solid brass keepsake symbolizes that the marriage of the couple is solid and has stood the test of time. It can be personalized with the names of the recipients, a short message and anniversary date. The plate looks classy and impressive. Your parents will surely keep thanking you for the gift.

1. Tote Bags

Perfect for any season and oh-so useful, personalized tote bags make excellent wedding favors. Plain tote bags are inexpensive, and they are easy to customize yourself, should you wish to make your own wedding favors. Short on time? Some wedding shops offer personalized totes, but they will cost you more than if you design them yourself.

2. Sunglasses

Having the ideal summer wedding? Candies and chocolates might not be the best wedding favor to leave for guests in the hot summer sun. Sunglasses are a great way to keep your guests comfortable and to remind them of your special day for years to come. A plus? Frames come in a variety of styles and can be personalized in so many ways. You are limited only by your imagination! Like tote bags, sunglasses can also be personalized professionally by many wedding and party vendors.

3. S’mores Kits

Perfect for weddings in late summer or early fall, individual s’mores kits are another creative alternative to more conventional wedding favors. These can be as basic or as decadent as you prefer, and thus they can work for any budget. All you need are some graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate bars and cute craft supplies to make these adorable and unforgettable gifts for your guests.

4. Candy in Personalized Wrappers

A bit more on the traditional side, personalized candy wrappers and candy seem to be mainstays when it comes to wedding favors. From those oft-present Jordan almonds to the more modern chocolate bars, this is another easy and inexpensive way to add a personal touch to your wedding. Why mess with a classic? Choose your candy and pick out those personalized candy wrappers. It’s a great way to make an impression on wedding guests with a sweet-tooth, and it also makes for a well-appreciated shower or bachelorette party gift.

5. Individual Bath Salts

Do-it-yourself bath salts are all the rage these days. Whether they are for personal use, a Christmas gift for a relative or birthday gift for a relative, chances are you’ve already got a recipe or two on one of your Pinterest boards. Individual bath salts are a unique and affordable way to pamper your wedding guests. Luxurious, little jars of bath salt also make wonderful bridal shower favors.

6. Hangover Rescue Kits

Hangover rescue kits or “cures” are a must-have if your guests will be drinking. From a personalized bottle of water, to a hangover remedy-packed kit, you can make this wedding favor as simple or as complex as you like. As with the other do-it-yourself ideas, this concept is flexible and budget friendly. Hangover rescue kits also make great bachelor and bachelorette party favors!

7. Individual Hot Cocoa Mix

Planning a winter wedding? Get your guests in the comfy, cozy mood with these individual hot cocoa favors. With some jars, craft supplies and some ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, you can create some of the most memorable wedding favors possible! You can customize the ingredients for different hot cocoa flavors, and you can decorate the packaging however you like. If you like the concept but don’t have the time for a do-it-yourself project, some vendors sell personalized hot cocoa packets.

8. Lip Balm

Personalized lip balm is another out-of-the-box concept for a winter wedding favor that offers a lot of flexibility. If you’re going for more expression or you are looking to save some cash for the honeymoon, you can make your own lip balm favors in a variety of different flavors and scents. As with the other ideas above, you can also buy personalized lip balm or do-it-yourself kits from vendors, should you need to save yourself some time and energy. Either way, lip balm can be an interesting and practical wedding favor for your guests.

9. Sachets

You probably already know that sachets are little bags of perfumed flowers or aromatic herbs that people typically place in drawers or closets to make the space smell pleasant. What you might not know is that these herb and flower-filled pouches make creative wedding favors as well. As with sunglasses or totes, these unconventional wedding party favors can either be bought or made at home.

10. Travel Kits

Whether you’re having a summer or winter wedding, a homemade travel kit can be a useful and memorable wedding favor that doesn’t break the bank. This idea is highly versatile, as the kits can be made in a variety of ways on virtually any budget, and it’s the perfect favor for a destination wedding.

An elegant wedding car makes it possible to create a stylish and sophisticated entrance to and from your wedding venue. Beyond the great look of the wedding car, they are also appreciated for offering a convenient form of transportation that will make sure you arrive at the venue on time. Let’s take a look at the main things involved in organising the perfect transportation:

Make the right choice

The actual process of choosing your wedding car can be quite daunting because there are many different things that need to be carefully considered.

Theme – Firstly, the chosen vehicle should be able to match the theme of the wedding to make sure it doesn’t look out-of-place. The preferred car model can include the modern, modern classic, classic and vintage. Every car will have its charm, but it is still important to base your decision on the all-round theme of the wedding. Also, it is necessary to consider the colour of the vehicle, as well as the decorations, such as the flowers and ribbons.

Size – the preferred size of the wedding car will relate to factors like the number of passengers and the type of bridal dress. It the bride is wearing a big or long dress, it is essential to make sure there is enough interior space. Additionally, it is worth considering the comfort level, especially if travelling for the longer distance.

Maintenance – make sure to only use a service that regularly maintains and services their fleet of vehicles. This will help to avoid the disappointment of a breakdown on the way to the wedding venue.

Budget – the cost of booking the chosen car will depend on a variety of factors. The cost is influenced by factors like the type and class, time of year, and extra packages ordered. Also, the overall distance to reach the wedding venue and reception will have an impact on the total cost.

How to book?

The process of booking your wedding car isn’t something that can be left until the last-minute because there are many things that need your attention.

Cars available – any decent company will have a decent size fleet of vehicles to choose from. It can help to see the various cars in person to avoid any disappointment at a later date. Also, if you do make the arrangements in person, this may make to easier to specify your needs to make sure you are getting what you really want.

Early booking – ideally, the wedding car should be booked as early as possible. For the busy summer period, the can be as early as six months before the date of the wedding. Also, the early booking is important when looking to book the vintage car because there is a limited supply of these vehicles. There is likely to be more flexibility if you intend to book a standard limousine, Mercedes or town car.

Weather – the chosen car should match the expected weather for the time of the year. While it can be tempting to book a convertible there is the risk of unexpected showers on the day, or gusty winds that will ruin the bride’s hairstyle. A soft-top convertible can make a practical compromise to minimize the potential issues.

Overall, it is essential to use a company that is well established, very reliable and offers the affordable prices. If you take the time to do your due diligence on the available options, you shouldn’t have too much difficulty finding a wedding car that matches the specific needs.

Well, your dig day is here and you’ve been reassured that everything is in place and the ceremony will go smoothly. As confident as you are in the venue staff, wedding planner, caterer, florist and photographer, you’re not too certain of some of your wedding guests. It can be stressful thinking that the unpredictable or unpleasant, predictable behavior of your guests can leave a black eye on your wedding day memories. As full as your family and friend’s lists are full of interesting characters, let’s hope you don’t have many of the following worst wedding guests:

Crazy Mother-In-Law. Yep, the one sobbing uncontrollably and is quick to point out flaws in everything from the bride’s dress, to other guests and in-laws to the ceremony to the newly established marriage.

Inappropriate Father-in-Law. Father-in-laws don’t tend to be as emotional, but they can still show their displeasure. They can prematurely take advantage of the old man leniency exception when they blurt out inappropriate comments, remarks and jokes. After their tirade, they may spend the rest of the ceremony in a peaceful slumber, letting the special occasion pass him by.

Emotionless Dad and Girlfriend. It is forbidden for your dad and his girlfriend (if your parents are separated or divorced) to show any emotion or any hint that they are enjoying themselves.

Emotional Mom. Some moms can’t conceal their emotion and will cry at every moment of the wedding. To better cope with their emotions, most will either turn to exerting control over your wedding or turn to the bottle to drown their emotions.

Bridesmaids-Zillas. You genuinely love and respect your bridesmaids. However, the emotions and responsibility of the day and their coveted positions can make them act strangely out of character. Some may become demanding, entitled monsters while others accept your request to be your bridesmaid either out of obligation or some other ulterior motive.

Maid of Honor (Privilege). You’ve picked your best friend whom you’ve known nearly since birth as your bridesmaid. You’ve placed confidence and trust in her. However, she isn’t bridesmaid material. The pressure may cause her to go on a power trip where she will manipulate, constantly complain about everything, make excuses for things, make unsolicited remarks, crave to be the center of attention and put her wants and needs before the bride’s.

Fraternity of Groomsmen. You have a unique bond with the men in your wedding; so much so that you’re like brothers. As close as you are, you know they love alcohol nearly as much as your friendship. This means they will likely have their fill by the time their speeches come about. You just hope they don’t share X-rated blackmail-like speeches.

Not Your Brother’s Keeper Best Man. Your best man has always had your back and he won’t let you down this time by telling everyone in attendance of some of your deepest, darkest secrets and mistakes that shouldn’t be repeated in front of children.

Obnoxious and Obscene Siblings. Oh, yes, you can’t forget your brothers and sisters. While they are grown up, technically speaking, they still think and act like irresponsible, sex-hungry teenagers with their “significant others.” You just hope nobody catches them making out, getting drunk or stones in the parking lot.

Unpredictable and Unruly Extended Family. You have a large extended family, meaning you don’t know everyone very well. You are, however, worried about some unpredictable, unruly behavior. After all, you don’t want desperate cousins flirting and making out with your groomsmen, gossiping aunts pressuring you to call off the wedding because they someone who will be a better spouse, unruly children running around screaming bloody murder and drunk uncles. In a way, you figure if it gets too bad, your wedding could be made into a book or movie.

Planning a wedding can get busy and messy, so there are quite a few recommendations I have for someone who may not be the most organized person to begin with. There are many different 12 month wedding planners and organizers out there, some made by The Knot, and some that you can even find at Walmart or any other stores. These planners can help you remember things you may not have been thinking about, or didn’t even know you had to do. They give you checklists, timelines, outlines, and different formats of how you should be writing out seating charts, lists, etc. With these planners, you can become one of the most organized people overnight! They are that simple and helpful!

Another recommendation I have is the service of an actual wedding planner. I am a wedding planner at a rental and wedding coordinating company, and I help brides do all sorts of things. I not only help them, I actually do most of the actual work. They will send me all of their contracts from their vendors, and I will organize them and put them into a specific folder for a later date when I begin creating the wedding timeline. These vendor contracts are just a small piece of the information I receive from brides.

The types of information I receive varies from what types of things we will be using to reserve seats, to the minute a bus will arrive. A wedding planner takes care of it all for you, and all you need to do is communicate back and forth with them. The perk is that you will be mostly stress-free, and can just gather all of the information from each vendor, and bring all of that jumbled information to the wedding planner, and they will sort through it and make sure it is all in an organized manner for that special day.

Once a wedding planner receives any sort of information about the day, they will begin to create a wedding timeline. A wedding timeline is a basic step by step of the day planned out to the minute. The wedding planners want to know any and all information the bride has for their special day so that they know how to assist, and where to assist at. Since they will be the point of contact throughout the entire day, they need to know when the florist will be arriving, what the photographer’s phone number is, what time the entertainer will begin to tear down at the end of the night, etc.

There are many different planning aspects that go into planning your own wedding. You cannot forget the little details that go in between all of the larger decision processes. Once you get engaged, you should first set you budget and pick a theme. You and your fiancé should be making these decisions together, so you should be talking through your ideas together and make sure you’re both getting involved!

Once you have talked about your theme together, you should look at your budget and what you envision spending on your special day. One very important thing that you must have when planning a wedding is a folder/notebook containing all of your information about venues, photographers, photos of ideas, etc. so that nothing will get lost. You can keep all of your contacts, contracts, emails, and quotes in one place so that you can access them easier. This will help the closer you get towards the date because most vendors will ask for other vendors contact information so that they can be in contact and on the same page about everything the day of.

Once all of this is taken care of, you can set a date and create a guest list. You should first decide what part of the year you want to get married in, and check with your important family members before you book anything. You need to be very flexible in this process because it is very hard to get the first date you decide at a venue. Most people are booked up until 2020 right now, and 2018 just started.

The next step would be to choose a venue. This is one of the biggest decisions, but it should be the most fun! Once you find one, a lot of things will fall directly into place. When looking at venues, you should always remember that you don’t have to get married in only a home or church, there are plenty of other places to consider! This is another part of the process that needs you and your fiancé to be flexible in the process.