So now you’re engaged and everyone knows it! For the next year or so all eyes will be on you -- the bride. While this will rank as one of the most joyous times of your life it may also be one of the most stressful times. One way to reduce the stress is by setting a date far enough in advance as to allow for proper planning. This is especially true in a case where you have a location in mind for the ceremony or reception which requires bookings at least a year in advance of the event. Consider also the wedding style, colors and fabrics you have in mind (if any).

All of these things impact the time of year in which you wed. For instance, pastels are worn in Spring or Summer; velvet is worn in Fall or Winter. However, if you’re completely flexible with all or most of your wedding decisions, such as which vendors to use, ceremony and reception sites, wedding attire and so on, then the length of your engagement could be as short as three months. The bottom line, discuss wedding ideas with your fiancé and allot a reasonable amount of time for planning to ensure that your wedding is a memorable and elegant event.

Tamara Christion-Marable is the President of Essential Elegance, in Atlanta, Georgia.