Although I have already been through the wedding planning process, I still wanted to see what advice she gave about how to tackle the job! Her guide was quite helpful and having been through the process, I think I appreciate the book on a whole new level.
Here is what I wrote about my feelings on the book:
I really enjoyed reading this book. I got married a couple years ago and there are many things I wish I had done differently during the wedding process. I utilized things like theknot.com and some of the wedding planning sites that were popular at the time but I missed out of today's great resources like Pinterest! After reading this book, I realized how MANY resources are out there for brides and how many ways they can get help along the way.
This book was useful in several different ways. First, from a future bride's perspective, it provided easy-to-follow steps that make the wedding planning process easier. It also provides some tips on how to be happy and stay happy. I think that's why I appreciate it as a whole compared to other wedding planning books.
What I really liked about the author's advice is her emphasis on the physical and mental health involved in planning a wedding and a marriage. Physically, she provides quick tips about better eating and sleeping habits as well as exercise. From the mental perspective, she gives a short explanation of the importance of meditation and focusing on the things around you that make you happy. When I was planning my wedding, I just wanted it to be over. Stress was coming from every direction and I wish I had taken more time to enjoy the fact that I was planning my WEDDING. So many brides forget to step back and realize the reason for the day - to marry the love of your life. In the book, there is a whole section that reminds a future bride of that important factor.
One very good point the author makes is that the engagement period is a time to focus on the relationship. So many other relationships are involved in the wedding planning process (friends, family, etc.) and sometimes that takes away the focus from each other. Isn't that funny? Because, really, this day wouldn't happen if it weren't for the couple. There are some tips on how to nurture the relationship and focus on the bride and groom throughout the process. I think this is something many people forget to do and it's a reminder this book makes throughout.
Finally, the book begins with a recommendation to start your wedding planning process with a statement of values. This is important advice for every single person, not just the bride. It is definitely a great way to start the wedding planning process, though, because you can constantly remind yourself what you want to stand for and how you want to be throughout.
Overall, I find this book a great tool for wedding planning and life in general. It is your traditional wedding planning book in some ways but in others, it is so much more.