"We want to have a great time at our wedding"

We hear this a lot: "We want to have a great time at our wedding". For many brides and grooms the goal of the wedding is to have a great time with friends and family and to be sure that people walk away saying "that was a great party".

How do we make this happen? Here are a few keys:

*Have your first look before the wedding ceremony.

Set up a private first meeting just between the bride and groom for the wedding day. It will give you time to have a moment alone together and allows you to take of all of those pictures before the ceremony begins. The bonus? You're free to join your friends and family in cocktail hour instead of being stressed about getting the pictures taken.

*Keep things fun and lighthearted.

Don't sweat the small stuff. If something doesn't go according to plan, your gown gets dirty, or the flowergirl starts to cry - just let it roll. Keep your attitude positive and focused on the purpose of the day and everything will go smoother.

*Realistic expectations.

The glitches are memorable and you will look back at them fondly for years to come.

*Hire the best and trust.

Work with the best vendors in your area and let them do their thing. When you have a great team working with you, you are able to relax and enjoy the evening.

*Surround yourself with love and joy.

Your bridal party is there to support you, invite people that are supportive and loving. If there's a Debbie Dower in the bunch, then keep them out of your inner circle.

*Dance!

The number one key element to keeping the dance floor packed is the Bride and Groom. Your guests will follow your lead and if you're on the dance floor having a great time - they're going to join you. If you're spending your time chatting and socializing then they will follow suit. So if it's a great party you want, then you're going to have to get the party started.

image from weddingcrashers movie