...tradition, protocol, flowers, relatives, something unique, avoiding the average . . .
What is a Perfect Wedding?

DEF:   A celebration of the uniting of two people's lives in which their individual tastes and
        desires are adhered to.

With the acceptance of your engagement ring you have accepted a new and bigger role of responsibility.
With this responsibility also comes the role of "decision maker". What makes for good decisions?

1.   Recognize the significance of your decisions. In the case of your wedding, recognize it as symbolizing one of the most important decisions of your life - the acceptance of another individual in an exclusive partnership. Whether your wedding is large or small, it will symbolize a decision of great significance and is not just a formality or a party.

2.   Determine how your decisions will affect those individuals who you care about most. It is always natural for extended family, friends and co-workers to want to help. Many of them will have wonderful ideas and advice. Just remember: be a good listener, express your appreciation, but never feel that you must adhere to the advice of all. However, with due respect, keep the feelings and preference of your fiance, his parents, your parents and those that are closely involved with the planning in perspective.

3.   Select someone you can depend on and trust for totally objective and professional advice.
This would be a reputable Bridal Consultant. There will be times when you will be undecided, you will have questions concerning etiquette and protocol, you will have conflicting views between family and fiance, or you may be at a loss for solutions to particular circumstances. Don't be too stubborn to hire someone with experience to help in these areas. A trusted Bridal Consultant can be the key to avoiding confusion and frustration.

4.   Do some research on your own. This website is the most informative for the Acadiana area. However there are other websites that provide valuable information as well. Read books, current bridal magazines, and ask lots of questions from the many professionals you will encounter throughout the planning stage.

5.   Once you have researched and received advice from others, it's time to put all of this information in with your own collection of ideas and form a plan. Let it be personal, let it reflect your lifestyle, your values, your personality and the feelings of those closest to you and the occassion.

6.   Take action! Keep yourself organized and aware of all that is happening. Purchase or make a customized wedding planner. Do not try to make all the decisions yourself. Sharing has a unique way of producing the greatest personal satisfaction in life. (A lesson you can apply not only to your wedding but to you marriage as well.) Start practicing now. Share your ideas, plans and the decision making with your fiance, both your parents and your attendants. Allow them to help make the decisions to which they are primarily responsible. Don't be afraid of compromise, instead let it stretch your creative abilities.