Once you've decided what kind of wedding is really you, the real work is just beginning. Here’s a brief checklist of all the steps and decisions that have to be made. But don’t feel overwhelmed. Remember, your wedding is only a once-in-a lifetime event. Date Wedding gown Wedding site Reception site Guest list Invitations Clergyman Caterer Musicians Wedding menu Wedding cake Tables & chairs China, glassware Reception flowers Receiving line Accommodations Talk over with your families the the type of wedding and reception you want. Meet with the officiant (the pastor, rabbi or other person who will be conducting your ceremony) to set the date, time and place. Reserve a site for your reception. Buy your wedding rings and have them engraved. Here's the biggie - start working on your wedding and reception guest list. Do you want your wedding to be large or small? Elegant or intimate? A social event or a personal statement? Choose your attendants, including groomsmen, your maid of honor, the best man, bridesmaids, ushers, and ring bearer. Order your bridal gown. Traditionally, the color white has symbolized virginity — reflecting your commitment to give the one you love the incredible gift of purity. Arrange rooms for the bride and groom to change clothes after the reception. Discuss and choose what your attendants will wear. Engage a caterer as soon as possible, even if it’s just the ladies at the church kitchen. Your reception can offer anything from punch and wedding cake to a full buffet or dinner. Bridal bouquet Bridesmaids’ dresses Bridesmaids’ bouquets Corsages for mothers Mothers’ dresses Groom’s clothes Groomsmen's’ clothes Bridal registry Thank you notebook for gifts Wedding rings Attendants' gifts Rehearsal dinner Bridal luncheon Seating plans for lunches & dinners Bridal shower Bachelor dinner Blood test Hair appointment Newspaper notice Rice or rose petals What would a wedding be without flowers? You'll need a boutonniere for the groom, flowers for the church and reception. Traditionally, the groom’s family orders the bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids, corsages for the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom, boutonnieres for the groomsmen, ushers, fathers and grandfathers. Engage a photographer. Arrange for a bridal portrait and schedule pictures of the wedding and the family at the reception. Allow a half hour between the wedding and reception for after-wedding pictures. Line up musicians as soon as possible for the wedding and the reception. Choose your favorite songs. Print your invitations and announcements as soon as the guest list is nearly complete. Mail invitations three to four weeks before the wedding. All addresses should be handwritten, with no abbreviations or "and family." Register for your favorite pattern in silver, china, crystal and linens.