Planning and organizing your wedding can be one of the most fun—and one of the most stressful processes of your life. Acknowledging the stressful part of it up front is actually one of the most important ways that you can help to stay calm and centered throughout your wedding planning.

The minute you wake up on your wedding day, you’ll be thrilled and excited (and perhaps a little bit nervous.) In just a while, things will get very hectic as you dress, pose for pictures, and then take that car ride to your ceremony. But wait…these morning moments are special as well. You can add an unforgettable memory or two (or twelve) right now at the start of your new relationship together! Take the time on your own or with your loved ones to make the most of them.

Amidst all of the decisions about food and drink, invitations and honeymoon destinations, clergy and clothes, many brides and grooms neglect some of the most important wedding details of all: those connected to the legal issues associated with getting married. While it’s certainly more romantic to fantasize about finding that perfect wedding dress than making a list of all the places you’ll need to contact if you change your name, making room for all of the legal busy work that a marriage entails is also a critical step in ensuring that your dream wedding comes to be, and that your marriage will start off on the right foot.

   You have seen the movies; you have read the books. Becoming a wedding planner seems exciting and glamorous. Before you jump into a career change, however, ask yourself the following questions...