Proposal season is finally coming to a close, so let the planning begin! I’m happy to share some valuable information that could potentially help you new bride-to-bes through this stressful time in your life. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up through my experience with weddings so far:

1. Real Flowers vs. Fake Flowers

Lots of brides on a budget choose fake flowers over real ones. The common assumption is that fake ones are cheaper than the real deal—but not by much. Good, artificial flowers can even be more costly than live ones. If you’re severely allergic to pollen, then maybe you should consider getting false flowers. Besides, they don’t wilt or freeze depending on the weather. However, I assure you that nothing beats the breathtaking sight of a pure, authentic bouquet.

2. Plan Out Your Pictures

Pictures can be such a buzz kill. Pushing through crowds of people to find grandma doesn’t seem like a good use of anyone’s time. That’s why writing down and numbering the picture orders beforehand saves so much stress! For example, number one: bride and mom, number two: groom and groomsmen, and so on. That way, you can snag everyone needed right after the ceremony and have everyone gathered in one spot! This way, pictures should be a breeze and finished within half an hour!

3. The Awkward Gap

Although an hour or two time-gap between the ceremony and reception may be convenient for the bride and groom, it’s not so much for the guests. There’s really no place for the out-of-towners to go, so most of the time they resort to a bar. Next thing you know, your guests are hammered before you even make the toasts. Your invitees are not fully “there” in the moment and could cause a potential ruckus before the party really gets going. However, if that's how you roll, then bring on the party!

4. Pastries: The New Cake?

When most people envision a wedding, they think of a grand, beautifully decorated, seven-layer cake. If you want to stick to tradition, a cake is the way to go. I’ll warn you now though, it will not get eaten. Cupcakes or donuts are the new dessert of choice, because not only don’t they require a plate/fork, but they’re also more appealing! Guests prefer them, mainly because they’re more mobile. Tip: If you still want to enjoy the fun of shoving cake in your partner’s face, try a smaller cake in addition to pastries!

5. Emergency Box

The last thing someone needs on their wedding day is a wardrobe malfunction. That’s why keeping an emergency box handy is so essential! Stashing it with various trinkets such as bobby pins, scissors, wardrobe tape, safety pins, even Advil could save you from a nightmare coming true.

6. Hire A Photographer—Beginning to End

When a photographer only gives you a few hours to work with, there’s a ton of pressure to rush and cut special moments short. Making sure your photographer can stay for the entire duration of the ceremony and reception is one less thing for you to worry about and lifts so much weight off your shoulders. Plus, then you know you hired someone who actually cares and enjoys what they do!

Despite all of these small details, the love shared between you and your true love is what really matters. Whatever you decide to do, your wedding is bound to turn out absolutely perfect. Just keep these tips in the back of your mind and, I promise, you’ll have a stress-free celebration. Happy planning!