by Doris A. Black

Despite all the planning and advice from family and friends, there's bound to be something that every bride has wished they could have done differently when planning their wedding. Here is a list of some common regrets.

Too many hours have been wasted spent worrying over minute details of the wedding and reception. Planning a wedding is definitely a lot of work but don't put more pressure on yourself by fussing over the small things like linens or centerpieces for the reception. Instead, concentrate on the most important aspects of the day and delegate minor duties to others. It is especially important to have someone else in charge the day before and of the wedding. As the bride, you need time to collect your thoughts prior to the wedding and time to relax after the wedding. Chances are no one will even remember if the centerpieces held roses or carnations.

Hiring the wrong photographer/videographer has caused a regret or two. Hire the best professional photographer you can afford. Look for one with creativity and an outgoing personality. Get plenty of photos of family and friends while they're there-you can't rewind time.

Wedding dress problems are more common than you think. Whether you spend $500 or $5,000 for your wedding dress, make sure it fits properly and that you know how to get into it. Rehearse getting dressed so there are no wedding day surprises. Let your bridesmaids know if you will need or want help. Nothing is more stressful than having your bridesmaids arrive late and unprepared. Make sure they understand what time they are expected to arrive and what their duties consist of. Give them a list of responsibilities on the day of the wedding, such as accepting delivery of the church flowers, placing the flowers, pinning boutonnieres and inspecting the church to see that all is in order. These duties should not fall on the shoulders of the bride on her wedding day.

Many brides assume that when they hire a professional, whether it be the caterer, florist, cake designer or photographer, everything will go smoothly. Most of the time everything does go according to plan but only if the details are double-checked before the wedding day. Between the time you hire the professional and the day of your wedding, they may have made arrangements for 10 other weddings, leaving miles of room for error. Always double-check your arrangements.

Omission of a receiving line has also caused regret. Many couples have expressed regret at not having a receiving line after the wedding. The purpose of the receiving line is not so guests can congratulate the bride and groom but so the bride and groom can thank the guests for coming individually. Without receiving line, the bride and groom do not get to say hello, even briefly, to guests who attend the wedding but may not be able to attend the reception. During the reception, instead of enjoying their first few hours as husband and wife together, they end up trying to make the rounds to all the tables to see family members and friends who have joined them on their special day.

No assigned seating at the reception has caused problems at many weddings. Large receptions, over 30 people, can be chaotic if there is no assigned seating. Often couples elect not to assign seating because they don't want to offend anyone who ends up seated in the back. But, honestly, guests feel more comfortable when they know where to sit. They won't have to battle for a "good seat" or argue over who sits by whom. Etiquette and courtesy dictates that parents of the bride and groom and elderly family members or friends should be seated in the front. Do the best you can to seat families or groups together. You won't be able to please everyone, but don't sweat it. Most people won't stay in their seats for long anyway.

Remember, don't stress the small stuff, check all reservations and details in advance, delegate responsibility and enjoy your special day.

Source:  MultiAd Builder