My husband and I are getting ready to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary and I've been thinking a lot about our wedding day. When I think about "what went wrong," I always wish I had used a checklist for my wedding photographer.

Wedding Couple With Officiant

There were two photos that my very adept photographer missed–and they were very important to me. So much so, that I still remember them five years later!

One was a picture of my side of the family that my two step-children were left out of; and the second was a picture of my husband and me with our pastor.

If your wedding photographer doesn't have his own checklist, make one for him to make sure you get all the wedding day photos you want.

If you plan on having outdoor and indoor photos, provide a checklist for each. This will be helpful to the photographer, so he doesn't have to "guess" at what you want, and it will help you get your money's worth.

It is also a good idea to give your photographer parameters about where you want him to take the photos. Some brides cringe at the thought of the photographer walking in and out of the wedding party, and would prefer they not distract from the ceremony. Others may want those close-up shots that capture intimate moments, smiles and tears. Whatever your desires are, you are the client. It's okay to tell your photographer specifically what you want.

Below is a sample of a wedding photos checklist:

______  Bride & Groom

______  Bride & Groom with Officiant

______ Bride & Groom With Groom's Parents

______ Bride & Groom with Bride's Parents

______ Bride & Groom with Wedding Party

Bride & All Her Friends

______ Bride with Bridesmaids

______ Groom with Bridesmaids

______ Bride with Groomsmen

_____ Groom With Groomsmen

_____  Flower Girl and Ring Bearer

_____ Bride with Siblings

_____ Groom with Siblings

_____ Bride with Godparents

_____ Bride with All Her Friends

_____ Bride & Groom with Grooms Family

_____ Bride & Groom with Brides Family

_____ Bride with Flower Girl & Ring Bearer

_____ Groom with Flower Girl & Ring Bearer

Every wedding photos checklist should be personalized. The key in creating the checklist is to include all of the people you want to remember.

Ok. So you're best friend's getting married. Whether you think he's making a huge mistake or you're thrilled for him, it's still your obligation to help make this wedding day one of the best of his life. Remember what best man duties entail? Few do til the day comes so here is a wedding checklist for just such an occasion. Oh no, my friend. You're in charge of much more than just the bachelor party. Here are your best man duties (and a look into why they call you the "best man" — it's work!).

Best Man Duties Prior To The Wedding:

• Help the groom shop for formal wear (tuxedos, shoes, etc)
• Coordinate tux fittings and payments
• Plan the couple's wedding shower and/or bachelor party
• Spread word about couple's registry (the maid of honor also has this duty)
• Offer assistance to the bride and groom with wedding planning tasks
• Arrange travel and lodging for all groomsmen
• Attend rehearsal dinner
• Organize groomsmen on wedding day

Best Man Duties At The Wedding:

• Stand at front next to groom and other groomsmen as procession begins
• Carry bride's wedding ring (or both)
• Escort the maid of honor during the recessional
• Sign marriage license as a witness
• Give the officiant's fee to the officiant

Best Man Duties At The Reception:

• May stand in receiving line (if appropriate)
• Sit at head table next to bride
• Make first toast to the couple, serve as toast master
• Dance with maid of honor during first dance (if wedding party is asked to participate)
• Help direct vendors as needed (Bride and groom will be too busy)
• Help groom give final payments and tips to wedding vendors
• Collect gifts and gift checks brought to the reception (Assist the bridesmaid)

Best Man Duties After The Wedding:

• Return all tuxedos to the rental shop
• Drive newlyweds to their wedding night hotel or airport (if no other transportation is arranged)

You'll never forget your maid of honor duties when you have this helpful wedding checklist! It fits easily in a wedding planner, a wallet, or your purse and conveniently keeps all of your maid of honor duties within reach. Your best friend is getting married and needs your help to make the wedding planning run smoothly. For you, it's as easy as performing these few simple task!

Maid of Honor Pre Wedding Duties

• Help bride shop for gown (if she desires)
• Help bride shop for bridesmaids dresses
• Get the word out about the wedding registry, even if listed elsewhere
• Coordinate bridesmaids' dress order, fittings, alterations, payment, and dressing
• Arrange the travel and lodging for the bridesmaids
• Organize bridesmaids on wedding day
• Fix the bride's train before the processional starts
• Attend rehearsal dinner
• Create a wedding day emergency kit (just a reminder!)
• Plan and attend the wedding shower and/or bachelorette party
• Help with wedding planning tasks (a girl needs all the hands she can get!)

Maid of Honor Duties During The Ceremony:

• Walk down the aisle during the processional
• Adjust bride's train once she reaches the altar
• Hold the bridal bouquet while the bride and groom exchange vows
• Carry the groom's wedding ring
• Sign marriage license as a witness
• Walk in the recessional with the best man
• Organize programs, tossing petals, etc.

Maid of Honor Duties During The Reception:

• Stand in receiving line (if appropriate)
• Help bride bustle her gown
• Sit at head table next to groom (if wedding party is seated at head table)
• Prepare and present a toast to the couple
• Dance with best man during first dance (if the wedding party is asked to participate)
• Help direct vendors as needed (the bride shouldn't have to worry with this on her big day)

Maid of Honor Duties After The Wedding:

• Take the bride's wedding dress to the dry cleaner
• Help organize gifts and gift checks brought to the reception
• Help oversee wrap-up after wedding reception (if needed)

Keeping up with who-does-what at a wedding can be very tedious. Instead of worrying about what your bridesmaid duties are and threatening your enjoyment of the wedding, use this checklist instead! This wedding checklist of bridesmaids duties is the fastest and easiest way to recognize your part in helping things run smoothly. Wedding planning has never been so simple!

Pre-Wedding Bridesmaids Duties:

• May assist in shopping for dress
• Attend at least one bridesmaid dress shopping event (unless an out-of-town attendant)
• Get fittings and alterations as needed
• Help with wedding planning errands
• Help plan wedding shower and/or bachelorette party
• Attend the parties!

Bridesmaids Duties At The Ceremony:

• Walk in the processional (might be with groomsman)
• Stand at the altar or stage throughout the ceremony
• Walk with a groomsman in the recessional
• Help bride dress and prepare for the wedding

Bridesmaids Duties At The Reception:

• Might be announced at the reception
• Sit at head table (if reserved)
• Take part in first dance (if wedding party is asked to participate)

Now you're just a few short steps away from being the best bridesmaid in history! Simply help your friend shine on her wedding day and you're both off to a good start!

Your buddy's getting married. He's asked you to be a groomsman and you accepted (of course). Not sure what that requires? Relax! Here's a wedding checklist designed specially to help you remember your groomsmen duties.

Groomsmen Duties Before The Wedding:

• Possibly help groom choose formal wear
• Attend tuxedo fittings and alterations as needed
• Attend couple's wedding shower if one is thrown
• Help plan, attend, and enjoy the bachelor party!

Groomsmen Duties During The Ceremony:

• (If you are an usher) Stand at the door ready to escort guests to their seats
• Escort bridesmaid to altar or stage during processional
• Stand with groom, best man and groomsmen at altar or stage throughout ceremony
• Escort bridesmaid during recessional

Groomsmen Duties During The Reception:

• Sit at head table (if assigned)
• May be announced at reception
• Take part in first dance (if wedding party is invited to participate)

Now you're ready to be the best groomsman at the wedding!

The last thing you want on your mind when planning a wedding is an overestimate of the number of people attending the wedding. While you're almost certainly going to have people in attendance who did not RSVP, you can avoid a lot of pitfalls by keeping your wedding guest number in mind. Knowing how many will attend your wedding helps limit the amount of extra burden to your caterer. Fifteen extra plates is three extra tables of people! This also reduces cramped seating at the ceremony and reception. This wedding checklist helps keep everything in line.

Knowing who will be your wedding attendants is just as important. When filling out a seating chart for the wedding reception, it is important to know how many bridesmaids and groomsmen will be placed at the head table with the bride and groom. Also, there are so many responsibilities of wedding attendants that being able to delegate these to trusted friends is something every bride needs. For a stress free wedding day, here is a helpful worksheet/wedding checklist that will keep things running smoothly! (Remember though:  this needs to be done early in the wedding planning process!)

Total Guests: __________

Who's Inviting How Many:

Bride and Groom:  ___________

Groom's Parents:   ___________

Bride's Parents:     ___________

Already Included:  ___________  (Ex:  Officiant and Wife)

My Wedding Attendants: (Indicate Names On Lines)

[] Maid of Honor:  _______________________________________________

[] Bridesmaids:  (# _____ )    ______________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

[] Best Man:   ___________________________________________________

[] Groomsmen:  (# _____ )    ______________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

[] Additional Ushers  (# _____ )   __________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

[] Ring Bearer:   _________________________________________________

[] Flower Girl:    _________________________________________________

[] Readers/Performers:  __________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

[] Other Assistants (Chuppah holders, guestbook attendant, et al):

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Most of the time it's easy for the person throwing a baby shower or wedding shower to run around like a chicken with their head cut off. After all, there's tons to do in preparation! Truth be told, that's probably why you're reading this blog in the first place. That's awesome because this checklist will make your life a little easier.

If you're like me, you could double check or check 50 times and you'd still forget something. It doesn't matter if it's a hotel stay or planning a party, I'm going to forget something. That's why these checklists help me and this one will help you! When planning a baby shower or a wedding shower, don't forget this essential checklist!

Things To Remember When Planning A Baby or Wedding Shower

• The party food is essential!!! Who doesn't want to at least snack at a shower? Hor d'ouevres are great. Finger foods are fine. Don't feel like taking on the hassle of food preparation for a large group? Hire a party caterer. They have to be good at it. It's what they do! Plus it saves you a lot of time. Party caterers are a win-win here.
• Don't forget the photographer or videographer! Whether it's Suzie Q with a digital camera or you hire an actual party photographer, don't forget the person that will preserve these memories forever. Besides, "toilet paper bridal gown" just isn't as funny in stories.
• Remember the party decorations! I know. It seems silly that the host would forget something as huge as decorations but you never know. Do you have the streamers? Are the tablecloths ready? How about napkins, drinking and eating utensils, balloons, trash bags a plenty? Trust me, it's too easy to forget at least one of these things. If you go to a party supply store, let the clerk know exactly what you're planning. They'll make sure you get everything you need!
• Remember to get rid of the guys! Or the girls. The same rules apply for bachelor parties and bachelorette parties. While there are exceptions to the rule, many of these parties are typically not mixed-company events. Some are. Just remember to give them plenty of time to plan an alternate location if you want it to be a girls-only party.
• Remember the music! Throwing a bridal shower? Get the couples' favorite music on a mixed cd and have a ball. Throwing a baby shower? Classical music in the background is a great addition. Whatever your tastes, whatever suits the occasion–don't forget the musical entertainment!!!
• Remember the party invitations! By now the invitations are probably already in the mail or on the guests' doorsteps. If you're still early on in the planning stages, don't forget the party invitations! Be as kitschy or as elegant as you want. Just make sure to have fun!

Ready to have a great time? Just print out this shower checklist and have fun at your party!! Don't forget to return to the Celebration Advisor and let us know how everything went.

I get tons of questions asking me who pays for what regarding the wedding. Does the bride pay for this? Can I pay for that? Can I ask someone to pay for this? Is it ok that the bride's family isn't paying for the wedding? Though a small novella would answer all of these questions, here is a simple checklist to let you know the traditional roles in paying for the wedding. Thank you, Emily Post.

Who Pays For What? — Traditional Expenses of The Bride or Bride's Family

• The wedding consultant (wedding planner or wedding coordinator)
• Wedding invitations, enclosure cards, announcements (all wedding stationery)
• Wedding flowers which includes the bridesmaids bouquets, wedding bouquets, and any floral decorations for the ceremony and reception.
• Wedding photographer and photographs
• Wedding videographer and video
• Any music used during the ceremony and reception
• The entire reception (yup, this is the bride's responsibility in full)
• Bridesmaids gifts and attendants gifts
• The groom's wedding ring
• Carpet for the aisle, rental of awnings, etc.
• Cost of soloists and other wedding ceremony musicians/entertainment
• A traffic officer if necessary
• The bridal party's transportation to the reception
• Transportation and lodging for officiant if invited by the bride's family
• Any accommodations (lodging, fees) for the bridesmaids and attendants
• Sexton fees

Who Pays For What? — Wedding Expenses of The Groom or Groom's Family

• The marriage license
• Grooms gift to his bride
• Gifts for groomsmen, ushers, etc.
• Formal wear accessories for groomsmen if not part of the clothing rental package
• In some regions, the bridal bouquet
• The bride's going-away corsage
• Boutonnieres for the groomsmen, ushers, etc.
• Officiant's fee or donation (this is always a groom's fee and is different than accommodations)
• Transportation for groom and best man to and from the ceremony
• The honeymoon package and expenses(yup, bride gets the reception, groom gets the honeymoon)
• The rehearsal dinner
• Accommodations for groomsmen, ushers, etc.
• Bachelor dinner if one is being held
• Transportation and lodging for groom's immediate family
• Corsages for immediate members of both families unless bride includes these in her wedding flowers package
• The bride's engagement ring and wedding ring

Who Pays For What? — Wedding Expenses of the Bridesmaids or Honor Attendants

• Apparel and all accessories
• Transportation to and from the city where the wedding is being held
• Contribution to a group gift from the bridesmaids to the bride if being given
• An individual gift to the couple if given (being in the wedding may be considered one)
• A shower or luncheon for the bride if held

Who Pays For What? — Traditional Expenses of the Best Man or Ushers

• Individual wedding attire rental
• Transportation to and from the city where the wedding is being held
• Contribution to a group gift from the groomsmen to the groom
• An individual gift to the couple if given
• A bachelor dinner or luncheon if held

Who Pays For What? — Traditional Expenses of Out Of Town Guests

• Transportation to and from the wedding
• Lodging expenses
• Wedding gift

This may seem like a lot to absorb at one time. Don't worry about it! Print this list off and keep it for later. I hope this is helpful when you're creating the budget for your wedding. It's always nice to know who pays for what!

Picking out a wedding ring should be a fun thing. Knowing the 5 C's of wedding jewelry will keep spirits high and fun in store during the buying process. This handy dandy checklist will help you remember what to look for in a quality wedding ring. Gather up your groom and head to the store but be sure to consider these things first.

Carat is key in quality wedding rings.

• The carat of a diamond refers to its weight.
• One carat is one fifth of a gram (200 milligrams). On ounce consists of 142 carats.
• One carat has 100 points.

Clarity is important when buying diamond wedding rings.

• Naturally occurring bubbles, inner cracks, and specks affect a diamond's clarity.
• A flawless diamond (FL) is given the highest rating. These are rare.
• The least desirable rating is "imperfect."
  Size and placement of the naturally occurring blemishes determines rating.
• The 10x magnifying glass used to view the inside of stones is called a loupe.

Cut is the difference between low grade and "a cut above" wedding rings.

• Cut is the feature that gives a diamond its sparkle.
• Cut refers to the faceted flat angled surfaces created when cutting (shaping) a diamond.
• Too many cuts reduces the quality of the diamond and its ability to reflect or refract light.

Color decides the color of your life, or at least the wedding band you'll wear for a lifetime.

• The highest color ranking is D. This is a clear and colorless diamond.
• Z is the lowest color ranking. This is a yellow diamond.
• Yellow, red, pink, orange, amber, violet, and blue are all common colors.
• Naturally occurring colored diamonds are referred to as "fancies."

Certification guarantees quality wedding bands that will last.

• Diamonds should come with written proof of their weight, grade and identifying characteristics.
• Certification should be given by the International Gemological Institute.

Want to know more about wedding rings? View information about shape, cut, style and more in this recent post.

You Can't Take It With You, Or Can You?

We all know what it's like to spend countless boring minutes in line at the airport. However, when we're traveling with our sweetie en route to our honeymoon destinations, we don't want to be stuck in line delaying the celebration. Well instead of buttering up the people ahead in line for cutsies, think of these helpful tips when packing your suitcases.

What's That In Your Pocket?
You've heard of dressing to impress, right? Well this time dress to keep the lines moving. Start by placing your wallet, keys, cell phones and similar items in outer pockets of your jacket. This makes them easily accessible so that taking them out and putting them back is really easy. After standing in line for that long, you'll be happy with how fast a few extra seconds seems to be. Also consider wearing shoes that slip on and off easily. Don't forget socks! Standing in bare feet on a dirty airport floor is about as inviting an idea as it seems. (Not one!)

I'm Thirsty. Got 3 Ounces of Something Tasty?
Don't forget about the 3-1-1 rule. The rule states that you must carry all liquids and gels in containers not exceeding three ounces. These containers must be sealed in a one-quart plastic baggy, and only one bag is allowed per person. Think travel toothpaste, shampoo and the like for this little baggy as these are more easily recognized. Sure, security may open them anyway but it'll be worth it to keep from having to explain exactly what is in which unmarked bottle. Keep this bag at the top of your carry on because having fast access to it will greatly expediate the process of going through security.

Another good idea is to bring along some extra Ziploc baggies. Just in case some forgotten items slip into your bag, having an extra plastic bag can prevent those items from being confiscated.

That News Cuts Me Like A Fingernail Clipper
Of course, items like scissors, pocketknives, fingernail clippers and golf clubs are definite no-no's. Steer clear of these kinds of things when packing. Items like this can be bought at a local store, so why go through the hassle of having them confiscated?

Honey, The Toaster Just Won't Fit!
Thinking about bringing electronics along? Now while you're probably not porting along your DVD player, you may be thinking about bringing along your mp3 player and docking station. Try calling ahead to see if your hotel accommodations include a docking station and speakers. Not only are these items large, tangled wires can be a hassle. If bringing your laptop, take it out of its case and put it on the security belt.

The Pretty Bow Must Go
Bringing a wedding night gift for your hubby? Forget the bows and ribbons until landing. Security may unwrap any wrapped packages so try to be sneaky about how you conceal the gift from your husband while making sure security has no issue with it.

No More "They Lost My Luggage" Blues
Pre-wedding jitters tend to put a damper on the mood to pack for the honeymoon. Even if you are happy as a lark about making the plans, nervous excitement may keep a few necessities from making it to the baggage. One good suggestion is to look into sending the bags ahead via FedEx, UPS, or the USPS. This could wind up saving you time and money. Remember to check the TSA's website for regulation changes a few days prior to your departure.

You're now pretty ahead of the game as far as honeymoon planning goes, but we want to make this even simpler. Print the following for a quick checklist of things to remember when packing your luggage.

Remember This When Packing Your Suitcase:

• Buy travel sized toiletries, liquids in containers not exceeding three ounces.
• Keep all liquid containers (i.e. toiletries) in one clear plastic bag.
• Keep your plastic bag toward the top of the suitcase for easy removal.
• Don't carry wrapped gift items. Security will probably unwrap them in front of your honey.

Remember This When Packing Your Carry-On Bag:

• No fingernail clippers, nail files, pocket knives, scissors or similar items.
• Opt to buy beverages and snacks on the plane. Most will not pass inspection and will be confiscated.
• Ipods and mp3 players are fine, but have the cords neatly wound.
• Call the hotel ahead of time for information about mp3 player docking stations and speakers.

Remember This When Dressing For Travel:

• Wear slip on shoes or easily removable shoes along with socks.
• Keep items to be removed in outside pockets that can be quickly and easily accessed. These items should include wallets, keys, cell phones, coins, etc.