How I did it: I utilized online resources/communities. From livejournal I found my photographer, a then grad-student who was building her portfolio. Communities also helped with tips on how to save money, informed me about options for many aspects (including how to deal with the parental units). 

Lessons & tips:

1. Don't sweat the small stuff. All you need is yourself, your beloved, an officiant and witnesses. Everything else is "small stuff."
2. It's your parents' day too, to a degree. The degree depends on their involvement and their contribution. Tailor your responses to unwanted suggestions accordingly. 
3. Lighten up! Sometimes the toughest curveballs can come from unexpected sources. Even at your own reception, if you feel stressed, feel free to step away from the action.  
4. Don't spend beyond your means! A lot of marriages end in divorce due to money issues, so why start your marriage in the hole? 

Resources:

• weddingplans on LiveJournal
• The Knot
• Bridal Bargains, by Denise and Alan Fields
• Netbride.com, where I got my gown for hundreds less than the retail price
• eBay and Etsy, for used or hand-crafted items, respectively  

Jan 18, 2009, 08:59PM PST | 2 comments | 6 cheers