When people ask me how wedding planning is going...

I'm sorry Evelyn! The costs are overwhelming. I agree with MrsWrs, if you're feeling depressed perhaps talk to FH and really decide what you both want.

I feel the same and said the same. But we've given ourselves a good long time to plan and I'm doing crap tons of research. Set your budget and get ready to DIY your heart out.

MrsWrs, that is a great response.

I've been there. I've been planning on and off for 5 years just waiting for things to fall into place to make our day happen. Figure out what you want and how much your really willing to spend on this 1 day and figure out how long you'll need to save up to afford it. Are either of your parents willing/able.to help?

I am 3 months out and understand the stress. Looking back I wish I would have made a more detailed budget. Also I really really love my dress, and later found my bridesmaids dresses from BHLDN...but I think a wedding gown from BHLDN for half of the price would have been fine. I do think it's ok to rethink some things-what will make you happy-there is life after the wedding day, and thinking about what you will really treasure years later helps to put things in perspective. Good luck!

I sooo understand! You are not alone! We are in the same boat. You want your day to be what you envision! We have learned a lot about how this wedding thing works. My advice would be to decide what parts of the wedding are most imoortant to you and put most of your money there. I already have my beautiful dress ordered and I am making small monthly payments on it. It was important to me. Look for things you can make small payments on to have what you want. It really can happen.

Another piece of advice... There is a lot of completely unnecessary extras that you always see in magazines and in wedding advertisements. Get back to basics and keep it sinple. I don't know what kind of crazy parties these people are throwing these days for weddings but it can make you feel like you are missing out or that you just aren't good enough. Don't believe the hype. Ask for help from friends and take the extra time to create your own for me but totally worth it. By work I mean mental planning and thinking my way through the challenge of expenses and where I can cut back and who is willing to help. It's possible! You deserve your day!

You don't have to blow any more on a party than you want to. You invite a small group of people that you can't wait to host.

And you don't ask your parents. If they want/can, they'll offer.

And don't talk planning with anyone.

Y'all are sooo sweet and helpful!!! I wish our parents could help but or families can't afford it! Thank y'all for the advice... I need to nail down my venue... I k ow it will make me feel better but all the rules different places have are ridiculous! I want a barn but everywhere that is decent is like $8000 which includes nothing but the space. Has anyone been to the Yolanda ranch? I was wondering if they built their barn yet???

We had a bit of sticker shock when we first started planning as well. Looking at wedding blogs and Pinterest is the DEVIL!! I still don't understand how sooooo many people afford such elaborate weddings and receptions.

I agree with the previous posts, think about your budget first and plan around it. Also, start thinking about who you want, most of all, at your wedding and cut everyone else. Don't get suckered into having a large wedding.