Table of Contents
Introduction 13
Chapter 1 Popping the Question 15
Pre-Proposal Considerations 15
The Ring 19
How to Do It 26
Will She Say Yes? 29
Chapter 2 Shout It from the Rooftops 31
Telling Family and Friends 31
Choosing the Where and When 35
Setting the Guest List 41
Chapter 3 Paying for the Wedding 49
What Are You Paying For? 50
Who's Paying for What 63
Setting a Budget 65
Chapter 4 Keeping with-and Breaking from-Tradition 75
Who Does What 76
When Do They Do It? 88
Decide Which Traditions Work for You(r Fiancée) 89
Old Traditions, New Trends 90
Chapter 5 Make Your Wedding Her Own 97
Your Church or Mine? 97
Types of Weddings 99
Personalizing Your Day 103
Venue and Menu 105
Incorporating Your Families 108
Chapter 6 Put the Party in Wedding Party 115
Selecting Your Best Man 115
Groomsmen Selection and Responsibilities 122
The Ring Bearer 124
Chapter 7 Wardrobe and Accessories 127
Dressing for the Occasion 127
Outfitting Your Groomsmen 135
Wedding Rings 137
Chapter 8 The Devil's in the F#$*ing Details 141
Gift Registry 142
Flowers 147
Photography and Video 148
Food and Drinks 151
Music 158
Transportation 161
Premarital Counseling 162
Chapter 9 Events Before-and After-the Big Event 167
Bachelor Party 167
Bachelorette Party 171
Bridal Shower 172
Rehearsal Dinner 173
After Party 175
Morning-After Brunch 177
Honeymoon 177
Chapter 10 Speech! 183
Toasts 184
Thank-Yous 186
Vows 189
Chapter 11 What to Expect on the Big Day 195
Last-Minute To-Dos 195
What to Expect 198
Conclusion: After the Dust Settles 213
Appendix: The Best Wedding Movies of All Time. Period! 215
Index 218
