I always found it very helpful when newlyweds posted their wedding advice and thoughts, so here are mine:
Sometimes cheaper up-and-coming vendors seem too good to be true (see my florist review). And if something doesn't feel right with a vendor, go with your gut. We ditched our original ceremony pianist just 10 days away from the wedding after he failed to return confirmation emails and voicemails. Luckily, the piano player from our reception band was able to step in and did a marvelous job.
It is completely possible to plan an amazing wedding with a short engagement (6 months for us). We already had some funds already set aside, so with that (plus a contribution from my parents), we didn’t need years to scrimp and save for this one day. In fact, I can honestly say that having a short engagement was great because it forced us to prioritize what was truly important to us (food, venue, photography and music) and what just didn’t matter (save-the-date cards, limos, calligraphy and out-of-town gift bags). It also helped us to efficiently book vendors and make decisions without agonizing over every single little detail.
Think outside the box for wedding seasons - winter weddings are great! Not only did we get our first choice for all vendors, but we even got some sweet discounts for having a wedding in the off-season (20% off photographer, no F&B minimum, waived fees, etc.). Many of our guests commented on how nice it was to look forward to something in the middle of winter. Plus, we got to take a nice warm honeymoon immediately afterward, and now have a great excuse to go on an anniversary trip each year!
Be flexible with your wedding vision. Originally, we thought we would have an intimate affair with around 75 people, but quickly realized that there were lots more people who we wanted to celebrate with us. We ended up having 125 people and, looking around at the reception, it felt amazing to have everyone there.
Cherish saying your vows. That was probably the best moment of the day for me. I was incredibly nervous about being an emotional wreck and crying through my vows, but as soon as we started reciting our vows, everything melted away and it was just us, smiling at each other. It was such a moment of peace and joy and one that I will always remember.