Bouquet featured on this month's cover courtesy of Charmaines Bouquet Canyon Florist 297-3100

Before you surrender to wedding-planning blues or head for a drive-thru chapel in Vegas, here are some helpful insider tips that will help ensure your extravaganza is well-planned, organized and - most importantly - reflects your personal style.

Give yourself enough time. When planning a wedding, give yourself enough time to effectively plan and create your event vision. Most venues begin booking dates at least a year in advance. Time is essential if you want first dibs on venues, photographers, DJs, etc.

Consider the details. Early in the planning stages, identify specific elements you would like included in your event that will make your event truly unique. Consider elements such as specialized linens, ambience lighting, event-defining furniture, etc.

Identify "true" table sizes. When determining seating, be sure to check with your venue or event rental provider to identify table sizes. A table that would traditionally seat 10 people may only seat eight once a centerpiece, dinnerware, stemware and flatware are added. If possible, ask to see a mock table setting to better determine what seating arrangement is best suited for your event.

Don't rely on memory. Keep a timeline of happenings surrounding your event. Not only will this help keep you organized, but it will also aid in identifying specific details for your event.
Stacie House is the co-owner of A-1 Rentals & Event Services 273-6900.

Does your Venue Offer an On-site Planner?
More frequently, popular wedding locations are adding "event planners" to their list of amenities. The Tournament Players Club at Valencia (288-1995, extension 133) is one such location. Offering the best views of the Santa Clarita Valley, the TPC Valencia creates the perfect wedding and reception venue. With accommodations for as many as 250 guests and the ability to create a gourmet menu customized especially for you, they also offer a staff of event planners who are seasoned professionals experienced with providing the utmost attention to detail and service.

Get Out of "Day-of" Dirty Work
Yes, you can plan your own wedding. But who's going to deal with "the dirty work" when you're all glam'ed up and ready to walk down the aisle? At the least, hiring a wedding planner for the day of is strongly suggested. According to Kelly Meyer of Kelly Michelle Weddings (296-0942 www.kellymichelleweddings.com), here are the elements a good planner will take care of on one of the most important days of your life:
• assist bridal party in final preparation
• coordinate pictures of wedding party and family
• coordinate transportation
• coordinate and cue musicians
• distribute flowers
• check vendor delivery
• instruct ushers on seating
• organize and cue processional
• check proper set up of reception
• arrange escort/place cards
• set out guest favors
• count tables and chairs
• pay vendor balances and gratuities
• line up bridal party for entrance
• cue bride/groom/MC for protocol events
• collect and pack all accessories and gifts