15 tips for a better wedding by Jacqueline Wild

Tip 1: Make sure you weigh a single invitation before applying postage. Invitations can sometimes sneak over the minimum postage and be returned rubber stamped.

Tip 2: If you are ordering unprinted invitations, order 25 extra - it is cheaper to order a few more now that a single batch later on. Order extra envelopes as well to allow for mistakes.

Tip 3: It can be a nice idea to celebrate your first anniversary with a piece of your wedding cake. Wrap the top layer in plastic wrap, and then aluminium foil. Don't just use aluminium foil, as it can leave the cake with a metallic taste. To keep a good flavour, store the cake in the back of the freezer where the temperature is constant.

Tip 4: If you are doing your own makeup, don't accidentally leave your makeup kit in your car overnight. If it's a hot day it will melt!!!

Tip 5: It might be your last night of 'freedom', but don't blow your big day by drinking heavily the night before. Arrange a celebration at least 48 hours before your wedding day.

Tip 6: If the bride or groom is nervous about making a speech, just remember that on this particular day, the guests will indulge whatever you have to say - so just have fun.

Tip 7: Try and seat your older guests away from the speakers. They will typically want to socialize with family and friends, and be away from the centre of the buzz.

Tip 8: Most couples submit a list of song requests to the DJ. Consider also submitting a list of songs that you would prefer the DJ not play.

Tip 9: Every bride tries on her dress before the big day. However, the men often feel that a tux is just a tux, and don their outfit the morning of the big day - sometimes to find a surprise lurking. Two left shoes, enormous slacks, etc. Politely insist that the groomsmen try their outfits on just once the day that the outfit arrives. It can save a great deal of trouble later on.

Tip 10: If sending out directions to the wedding, do a quick test run of the last five miles of approach to make sure that the directions tie up with the roads. Give as much detail as possible, naming any structures that your guests may pass ('turn right at the Old Crow pub' is better than 'take the third road on the right'.

Tip 11: Before the service, ban anything that can stain, like wine, fruit juice or dark lipstick from any room in which you may be wearing your dress.

Tip 12: Wedding costs can start to run away with you. It is important to keep track of how much you are spending. Consider ordering a separate credit card to make your wedding purchases.

Tip 13: When addressing your invitations try and avoid writing 'and guest' wherever possible. If you are unsure of partner's names, make a quick phone call to find out. They will be touched that you want to know.

Tip 14: It is easy to be caught out by hidden charges at your reception. Make sure you ask your caterer if there are any other charges that haven't been discussed, such as corkage, serving fees, or napkin fees.

Tip 15: On her wedding day, every bride wants to feel that she is the only bride in the world. When making enquiries with reception venues, ask whether the venue host more than a single wedding concurrently. When a venue hosts more than one wedding at a time, mix ups can happen, including gifts going astray and guests drifting from one reception to the other (a concern if you are having an open bar).