Set a budget before making any big decisions, and stick to it. It’s really easy to fall in love with something at a price point you can’t afford and if you don’t have a financial plan you’ll quickly find a little extra here and there will add up.
You usually reserve where it will be way ahead of time so start looking right away – those places book fast and you want to have it at a time you like best.
People love open bars but they are ridiculously expensive. Decide what is important to you, and what you can compromise on.
More people generally equals more expense, especially when it comes to food if you are doing the traditional catering thing.
Keep track of everything. Money matters, what still needs to be done, down payments, guest lists, etc and keep it all in one place so if you ever need to reference it it is right there.
Many ways exist to cut costs, like using an ipod playlist instead of a DJ. Decide which options would work for you.
Before deciding on a photographer look at their previous work. Every photographer has a different style so it’s important to match up in that way.
Recording a wedding is more difficult than it looks, be comfortable with the level of expertise of your pick.
Remind her (and him) to write thank you’s post-wedding in a timely manner. It’s easy to forget after the hustle of a wedding.
I’ve never planned a wedding but I do know a lot about them.