Ah, Spring. The time of year that brings us blooming flowers, outdoor picnics and aTexas temperature that is actually bearable. It’s also the season that propels thousands of women like myself into a wedding frenzy. Something about Valentine’s hearts and Easter flowers beckons the bride. I wonder how many blushing brides-to-be reading this are experiencing what I am: that rare combination of total joy and utter frustration. You see, love doesn’t come easy. At least when it comes to planning your dream wedding.

           

As I poured over stacks of bridal magazines, I came to the obvious conclusion that not all wedding choices will be fun and simple. Oh, the dress was a no-brainer. I’d always envisioned a classic, strapless dress, a beautiful train and a cathedral length veil. But beyond that, I had no idea what I wanted. Letterpress invitations or digital? Wedding favors: boxed candy or donation to a charity in guests’ names? Private ceremony or invite the masses? What’s a bride to do? Heed the advice of former Dallas brides, that’s what. Here are some tips I learned that could help you in a big way on your big day.

           

 

Get help from the ultimate Dallas bride. If you are organizationally challenged, then you should check out Kimberly Schlegel Whitman’s book, The Wedding Workbook. Using her own fabulously famous wedding as inspiration, this book is a comprehensive look at budget breakdown, bridal party attire, ceremony spots and pretty much anything else you can think of. Bottom line: this saves time and money, two things a busy bride needs.

           

 

Attend the swanky bridal events that upscale Dallas vendors throw almost monthly. The Joule Hotel and Carolina Herrera boutique are just two examples of vendors who have thrown lavish cocktail parties, giving brides-to-be a chance to sip champagne while looking at chair covers and bustles. They certainly beat the overcrowded bridal fair.

           

 

Don’t be afraid to call in a favor from talented friends. Let’s face it, we all know someone with really great connections or beneficial skill sets. I happen to know a fantastic graphic designer, so I hit him up for a cost-effective wedding invitation design that is unique and personal. Perhaps you know a friend that is a florist or can create a one-of-a-kind wedding gown. Whatever it is, if you can possibly save a few dollars and still be thrilled with the results-- it never, ever hurts to ask. Who knows? You might become someone else’s savior when they take the plunge.

           

 

Make this experience about more than just planning your wedding. As a native Dallasite, I am ashamed to admit that I don’t know as much about my beloved city as I would like. So, when I started looking at potential venues and vendors, I decided to make this a quest to know my city. A few new things I learned along the way? Cretia’s bakery has three locations in our city and some of the best cupcakes I’ve ever tasted. The Sixth Floor Museum is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Crow Collection of Asian Art has a free, guided tour of the permanent collection every Thursday and Saturday (and makes a beautifully decorated reception venue!) I started to feel that through this rite of passage, I was becoming more in tune with all that Dallas has to offer.