What I wish all brides knew.”

In the course of her work, marketing manager Janet Gericke has seen some 260 000 brides visit The Wedding Expo. So trust her advice to ensure that your big day will be a piece of cake. Stick to your budget Visit an expo Work around that open bar When it

1Research prices before you put together your wedding budget, rather than the other way around. Remember, even though this is a very special day, it is, hopefully, just one of many special days to come in your future together. Don’t set yourself up for an overdraft – it’s no way to start married life.

2It’s a great place to do research, compare prices and meet service providers – all under the same roof. The bar can be a contentious issue, but don’t be intimidated into thinking you have to pay for everything. If you can, negotiate with the venue to bring your own alcohol and pay corkage, as this is the most cost-effective option and you get to enjoy your own special drinks. Alternatively, serve only wine and champagne. Or don’t cover the bar at all. There’s nothing wrong with asking guests to pay for their drinks. You don’t need a big budget to have a beautiful wedding. Find out what your venue can offer from their stock of decor items. Or go bold with a simple seasonal theme, like large bowls of apples or lemons and masses of greenery.

5venues, photographers and hair and makeup stylists get snapped up quickly, and you don’t want your second choice.

6Many brides lament the fact that they missed so much of their wedding day because they were worrying about things like the food or how the centrepieces looked. Relax and enjoy it all. And if something goes wrong, remember that your guests don’t know what’s supposed to happen. Besides, any behind-thescenes mishaps will provide amusing stories to tell at the next dinner party. There may be other people who are sure of what you should do or wear on your big day, but you don’t want to be the couple who wish they’d eloped. Make sure that everything, from the invitations and attire to the venue and food, reflects you and your partner’s personalities. Yes, the party is important, but it’s not the be all and end all. This is a celebration to begin your journey as a married couple. Don’t let the stress of planning a wedding be at the expense of your marriage.

THE DAY BEFORE

Have a mani or pedi Opt for gel or cured nails, which last about two weeks.

BACK DETAIL

An artful design acts as a point of interest during the wedding ceremony.

TWO PIECE

Bang on trend – and the ideal excuse to flaunt those hot abs!