1. Decide on WHO should be involved in the wedding.   The people who will be a part of planning and implementation are the most important part of creating a successful wedding ceremony and reception.

2. Decide WHERE you will hold the ceremony.    As they say, it’s location, location, location.   The kind of wedding will be largely determined by the location of the ceremony and reception.    Keep the distance between the ceremony and the reception as short as possible.

3. Decide on the BUDGET.     Beautiful and memorable wedding ceremony and reception can be created at any budget.    Spending more money does not guarantee that your wedding will be more meaningful.

4. Decide on the THEME.    A wedding tells a story.   Your story.   Instead of making it a generic event, insert your story into the ceremony and reception.    If faith is important to you, add a meaningful religious ritual in the ceremony, such as Communion.

5. Ask for help.   For example, trying to memorize vows is a wonderful gesture.  But make sure the officiant has a copy of your vows so he or she could help if you get stuck.