1. Budget

Don't start your wedding planning without a budget. Money (or lack of) is one of the most stressful elements in planning a wedding. Decide upfron what your budget it going to be. Who will be contributing and how much. Don’t assume how much your parent or other family members will be contributing to the wedding.

2. Spending

Don't spend more than your budget. Whilst your wedding day is an important day, it is only one day. Don’t get into serious debt, You don't want to start your new life together by being strapped for cash for the next five years (you will be entering into kids territory).

3. Agreements

Don't rely upon handshake agreements with vendors. Try and avoid mate’s rates etc. Get everything in writing!

4. Delegate

Don't try and do everything yourself. Planning a wedding can be a full time job in itself. So, don't try and take on such an enormous project alone, delegate as much as you can! Weddings are exciting and people do want to be part of it, so let them help. Make people responsible. Seek professional help if you need to or can afford it.

5. Compromise

Don't have it your way all the time! Compromise on things. This way everyone will feel part of it, particularly with the other side of the family. Start the rest of your life on a good note.

6. Photography

Don't disregard photography. Ensure that you have a decent photographer with good experience and track record. Your wedding day goes by so fast, and after it's over, all you'll have left is your memories and your pictures.

7. Details

Don't get crazy over every detail. It can really take the pleasure out of the wedding planning process. I mean, will it really matter that the ribbons for the favors are baby blue instead of ice blue?

8. Appreciation

Don't forget to let people know that you appreciate their help. Thank everyone involved in your wedding and those that gave you gifts. Also, don't let those thank you notes pile up. Send them out promptly after you receive a gift or help.

9. Overload

Don't overload yourself the day before your wedding. This is not the time to put together a list of favours. Try to do only one or two small tasks and leave the rest of the day to relax and pamper yourself.

10. Perfection

Don't expect perfection for your wedding day. Expect a "terrific" day and set reasonable expectations. Never forget, the main goal is to get married.  

10 Things NOT to do before your Wedding