DO

1. Consider inviting more than just your mom or dad to walk the aisle with you. Share the importance of two families merging into one.
2. Do get a video. In the chaos of wedding day there are so many things going through your mind and you may not remember the little things. A video captures more than just a smile, it captures the energy of the room and it always great to share with your kids down the road.
3. Consider doing a ‘first look.’ A first look is a great time for you and your fiancé to take in your day together before you are bombarded with your family & friends. It also allows you to get the jitters out so during your ceremony you can fully focus on each other and your vows.
4. Do be prepared for all kinds of emotions and take in each moment, you are in no rush to get anywhere.
5. Figure out what kind of wedding you want (size, budget, etc.) and get on the same page before you tell your families you’re engaged. It’s a very small window of time. There are bound to be fights and you and your future spouse need to be a united front before other people’s expectations intervene. If you can pay for your own wedding, you don’t have to put up with as many demands.
6. Consider taking a breather before your honeymoon. Giving yourself time to get back in to the groove of everyday life after the wedding is nice and relieves the feeling of leaving unresolved things at home when on your honeymoon.

DON’T

1. Don’t let parents steamroll your invite list. It is your wedding and unless they are paying for it you don’t have to invite your Mom’s Priest.
2. Don't go DIY crazy. DIY is great but it is very time consuming and can cause more stress for you and your bridesmaids and can be more expensive than initially thought.
3. If you’re on a budget, don’t go crazy on the flowers.
4. Do not worry so much about whether or not people are enjoying themselves; always remember to enjoy yourself and your guests. Once you’re there, it’s done. Now’s the time to take a step back, admire all the work you put in and savor the moment.
5. Don't be bossy with your bridesmaids. Tension and gossip between the girls is not what you want on your day. Be nice.
6. Don’t assume your family will know the plan. Be sure to communicate any and all details that they may need to know. (Reserved table seating, rehearsal attendance, family pictures)

      -  Stephanie LeClaire is the Private Event Director of Canyon Oaks Country Club