Looking to save a buck or two before your big day? Organising your own wedding planner/journal can be a great way to do it. As a bridesmaid-to-be, and my bride not knowing where to start, I decided to pull together a wedding bible for her. A go-to-guide of all the nooks and crannies she might need to think about along the way.

There is an endless vortex of information out there and if you don’t want to be stressed before the big day, it’s time you started planning!

If you're a bridesmaid-to-be this can be the perfect gift and a massive weight taken off your bride's shoulders.

So, what do you need?

• A beautiful book to put all those handy tips in
• Some bridal magazines for inspiration and hints
• Glue
• Scissors
• Pen
• Ruler
• Access to the internet
• Access to a printer and scanner (can be handy, but not necessary)

I stumbled across a FREE wedding planner in the Winter Garden off Queen St Mall which can be a great place to get you started. I discovered this many moons ago, so instead I found an online alternative for your inspiration. Bridal Fantasy are a good start (go straight to page 17 if you wish to skip all those pesky ads). 

What should I put in my book of wonders?

This completely depends on the Bride&Groom and the wedding they intend to have. There are many universal items on the checklist that cannot be missed! These include:

• Venue
• Ceremony
• Reception
• Budget
• Bridal Party
• Groom’s Party
• Food // Catering
• Photographer // Videographer
• Caterer
• Kids room at reception
• Hair stylist
• Make-up artist
• Guests (numbers)
• Honeymoon
• Vows
• Dress // Suit
• Flowers
• Decor
• Music // Band // DJ
• Beverages
• Cake
• Are you going to have pets? (have a read of Feathers, Fur & Scales)

An inspiration section is really important for the book. So once you get through all the nitty gritty stuff (budget baby, budget) make sure you spend the time to inspire yourself or your bride. Photography ideas, colour palettes, food, venues, set-ups - everything - as in this case, more is more. Another suggestion is to dedicate a grooms section at the back of the book.

Men can fall into limbo unsure of what-to-do and what-NOT-to-do. A guide of what the guys need for their day to run smoothly is a good idea, as well as an inspiration section. As much as they may hate to admit it, we all know the men love getting involved and looking good!

So here's to your big day, let’s get those creative wedding juices flowing.

~ For Elysha Marie ~