Tips for the Soon-To-Be-Wed!

There can be a lot of reasons to feel stressed during the days, weeks and months of planning a wedding. Between coordinating seating charts, fielding questions from family and hiring the reception band, it's easy to feel overwhelmed as you get closer to your special day. As wedding season quickly approaches, we want to share Jeff and Carolle's best tips for brides (and grooms!) during the Big Day countdown.

Practice runs are good!

The last thing you want to do is make decisions about hair and makeup two hours before walking down the aisle. Make time for a practice run with your hair stylist and makeup artist before your big day to finalize your plans. Take pictures to

reference the morning of your wedding.

Choose comfort.

A pair of beautiful and comfy shoes is well worth the investment. Your feet will thank you while you're enjoying your honeymoon . . . without blisters!

EAT.

Eat a well-balanced, protein-packed meal before you get into your dress. No exceptions. You never know how long it may be before you have time to take a bite later that day!

Designate someone as official "Day-of Decision Maker."

This person is the go-to for any minor crisis. Someone show up with a date who didn't RSVP? Does the DJ want to play Black-Eyed Peas in front of your grandmother? This person is a capable and trusted friend (not in your wedding party) who juggles it all with grace and a smile . . . and never lets on that there is a hiccup.

Trust.

You've hired your favorite caterer, a gorgeous reception hall, talented photographers (cough, cough) and a wedding coordinator to make your day memorable. Trust them to do what they do best and celebrate worry-free.

Find a private moment with your new spouse.

We can't tell you how many times we hear brides say, "I didn't see my husband for the whole reception!" In our humble opinions, this cannot, should not happen! Even if it's just for a few minutes, steal away for a bit to enjoy your first few hours of marriage.

Have fun.

It may seem totally intuitive, but having a great time is not negotiable. This is your party with your closest friends and family- all in one place. When will this ever happen again?! Relax, chat it up and dance the night away with the ones you love.

We hope this handful of recommendations helps you as you get closer to your day . . . best wishes to all!