Our friend, Julie DiGiovine of The Stylish One shares helpful hints throughout her real-life journey to “I do!”
Photo: Sweet Lady Jane Photography
In a world of Instagram glam and blogging beauty, brides are put under an intense amount of pressure to have a perfect wedding. We are made to feel like we need to stroll through the planning process effortlessly, all while balancing our personal and professional lives. Oh, and did I mention the strict exercise and diet routine we’re all supposed to be following? The truth is, planning your wedding is a juggling act that requires love and patience.
Years ago, I started working in the wedding industry for Vera Wang in Boston. After I had moved on from Vera Wang, I continued following my passion through my blog, TheStylishOne.com, contributing to BostonMagazine.com, and collaborating with the talented ladies of Whim Events. Needless to say, I like weddings. Then, on January 4, 2014, I became a fiancée! I was thrilled to be marrying the love of my life.
At first, I thought we had plenty of time, and since I was a wedding pro, I could handle it. We chose our date and our venue, put a team of vendors together, picked dresses, flowers… I thought we were good to go. However, I quickly realized that working and balancing a personal life during the last leg of the wedding tour is tricky. That’s why, for the next few months leading up to my wedding, I’m going to be sharing some “bride-to-bride” insight and tips with all of you!
Bridal Event with the Girls
1.Hire a professional
There are many details you don’t think of initially. Some are big, like contract negotiations with your vendors, and some are small, such as what time you should cut your cake. If you work full-time or haven’t had much experience planning a wedding, I suggest getting help from the pros. Whether you opt for a full-on planner or a month-of coordinator, you won’t believe just how much time, stress, and money they can save you. Attending DIY and planning workshops, like Whim provides, is also helpful.
2. Say “yes” and “thank you”
I’m not very good when it comes to asking for help. I’m afraid people will feel burdened or bothered. What I’ve come to realize is that family and friends really do want to be a part of your journey. So, if your mom or Maid of Honor is asking if she can help with your favors, say “yes.” If it’s a DIY, provide her with the items she’ll need and print a photo of your ideal finished product. Or, do the first few together so you’re on the same page. Just be sure to accept the help and remember to say “thank you.”
3. Go with your gut and then let it go
Being a perfectionist has its perks, but it can also drive you a little bit crazy. For example, I’ve spent the past month trying to decide what type of stamp I should choose for some of my paper items. This may sound silly, but typography and design are really important to me. You probably have certain things that are important to you and your fiancé, too. One thing I’ve learned is to go with your gut and then let it go. Whatever you choose will be beautiful, especially if it speaks to both of you.
Our Engagement Party
4. Choose local or try Etsy
From paper to accessories, there are a vast number of talented artists ready to help make your dream come true in a personalized, affordable way. Look for a local calligrapher to do your place cards, or search Etsy for custom gifts and decor. You won’t believe what you’ll find! You and your guests will treasure the personal details of your day and you’ll meet some great people along the way. Just be sure you’re keeping track of the small ticket items so you don’t go over budget.
5. Do you
Some people may be expecting you to get married in a church wearing a white gown as you toss your bouquet to the masses. That doesn’t mean you have to – especially, the bouquet part. Incorporate ideas and opinions from loved ones, but stay true to your vision. The great thing about weddings today is that anything goes. From towers of cupcakes to mismatched maids, there are plenty of ways to write your own love story.
6. Don’t forget to breathe
As our wedding approaches, I’ve realized that I only have a few months left as a fiancée and that this planning stage isn’t going to last forever. It’s time to embrace the chaos and soak in the love that surrounds us. So, whenever things get stressful, remember that this will be the day you marry your favorite person in the entire world. Then, you get to have a ton of fun with all the people you love!
Stay with me on my journey and check in next month to learn how I navigate my first fitting, make some final Big Day decisions, and more. Have a question? Tweet me and be sure to follow @TheStylishOne_ and @WhimEvents on Instagram. You can also leave comments below. We hope to hear from you!
