Our friend, Julie DiGiovine of The Stylish One shares helpful hints throughout her real-life journey to “I do!”

Let the final countdown commence! With just two months until our wedding, we’re definitely feeling the pressure of final details and finishing touches. From the color of the bouquet wrap to deciding what the girls and I will wear while getting ready, it’s become clear that I need to tighten up my organizational skills. In this second installment of our series, I’m sharing more helpful hints you can use to simplify your planning process and navigate your fittings, too!

1.Stay organized
I’m the worst when it comes to using my iPhone calendar. I should make better use of it, but for some reason, I’ve always preferred an old-fashioned planner or calendar. I found a really pretty gold one from PaperSource.com that I use for everything. It’s the only thing that’s kept me focused these past few months. From fittings to vendor meetings and dinners with friends, it’s the best way to keep track of all we have going on.

2.Make lists and check them more than twice
I live by my checklist. From thank you cards to wedding jewelry it helps me to see everything written out in front of me. There are apps on your smartphone or you can use the notes section of your planner, too. I have a big blush notebook that I use, but again that’s probably just the English major in me who prefers to write everything down. Check your list at least every other day to ensure you are staying ahead of the game and accomplishing everything on time.

3.Carve out time
I quickly realized that planning your own wedding is a second full-time job. As the days are winding down, I have to start carving out time during the week and on weekends to get wedding tasks done. After all, those DIY wedding signs aren’t going to design and print themselves! Try your best to make time for date nights and fun with friends so you enjoy each wedding planning moment that much more.

4.Don’t be afraid to ask
When it comes to finding a tailor for your gown, ask the team who sold you your dress who they recommend to do the alterations. If they don’t have someone in mind, call other boutiques, ask friends, and check online. As you’re contacting tailors, ask if they’ve worked with dresses made by your designer before and make sure you provide your wedding date to ensure they can get all the work done in time. Look at reviews and meet in advance so you are comfortable with the person who is doing this very important work. Before even one piece of fabric is cut, you’ll also want to get a quote for how much alterations are going to cost. It’s important that you understand each part of what will be done to the dress and how much it will be.

Quick tip: One thing I didn’t ask is if they will press and stuff my dress before the wedding. I made the mistake of assuming that every tailor does. There’s something about having the whole experience, and a fully prepared gown, that makes a difference. If your tailor does not offer this service, purchase a cardboard bust form like the one seen here, to ensure your dress is perfect for the Big Day.

5.Keep it together
As the wedding gets closer you’re going to be ordering items, receiving gifts, and trying to organize a lot of different pieces of the puzzle. I suggest getting a cute tote like the one above from Dream State to keep all of your items for your fittings in one place. Keep your shoes, accessories, and undergarments together to avoid last minute panic or losing key pieces. Designate a spot in your home for all of your décor items, thank you gifts, and additional wedding pieces. I have a closet in our back room that has officially become “the wedding closet.” It makes things much easier when you have a system and one place to keep everything.

6.Focus on what truly matters
People may miss the RSVP date, wear white to your wedding, or not show up for you in the way you hoped they would. All I can say is, you have to let it go. You can’t control other people’s actions, reactions, or behavior. The people who truly love you are going to be there for you and be excited for you. Try your best to ignore any negativity and focus on what’s important – you are marrying the love of your life. Nothing matters more than that.

The next time I write to all of you will be just one month before my wedding! I’d love to hear how you are doing with your planning and if you have any questions. Tweet me and be sure to follow @TheStylishOne and @WhimEvents on Instagram for inspiration and a look behind the scenes. We can’t wait to hear from you.