Weddings are the first chance for a couple to exemplify what their lives together will be like. It can be stressful, exciting and typically brings out the best and worst in the people involved. Parents may want to be too involved or the groom (or bride) may not want to be involved at all. Problems can arise over the smallest details to the traditions - what color should invitations be and who should pay?

Take a deep breath. Relax. Then take a step back and consider the situation.

It may very well be time to call in a professional. Wedding consultants can take over the process and put the entire event together. Those involved need only make a few decisions, give a few instructions, and show up for rehearsal. But for many people, this isn't an option.

If you want to get your wedding plans under control, the first thing you have to do is to take control. If you have domineering parents, aunts or sisters who want everything done their way, call a meeting. Explain clearly that the bride and groom should have the right to shine on this particular day. Most will understand and the rest will likely get over it.

The next step in taking control is to get a grip on what's important. If tradition is the most important aspect of your wedding, get on with the traditional wedding. But if the only tradition you want is