First of all, I am a huge advocate of checklists for everyday life. I’m not just talking about the normal grocery list you are used to creating, but lists for everything! The possibilities are endless. If it’s a task, an item to purchase, or even a goal for the future, WRITE IT DOWN. I cannot even describe the satisfaction I revel in as I get to cross an item off my list, preferably with a red pen. Truthfully, at times I will put something on my list after I have already completed it, just so I have that feeling of pure accomplishment. Abnormal? Possibly!

Checklists are the essence of organization. Say that 3 times to yourself. Drill it in your brain. To be a successful bridesmaid, organization is needed. If you didn’t know this already, here’s something I’ve learned: Weddings zap you of your time…energy….and funds. Hopefully that was not a newsflash. Everything needs to be budgeted out. My suggestion? A glorious spreadsheet. Spreadsheets and lists are one in the same. They are partners…the Bride and Groom of organizational bliss, if you will. Get a pad of paper out, do it all on the helpful computer, or combine the two. Start thinking of the things you will need to purchase for your ensemble: the dress, the shoes, the jewelry, the accessories. Then think about the actual big day: hair, makeup, toes, nails. Ponder over the bridal shower and girl’s weekend: hotel cost, meals, transportation, decorations, shower food, cake, and gifts. Am I forgetting something? Most likely. But I think you get the main idea! Next, start writing in another column how much you think those items will cost, preferably a range. In the 3rd column you can dictate how much you actually spent, although it may be a bit depressing. See below for an idea of what my own “Budget” spreadsheet would look like:

Now this was just a quick list to give you a basic idea. Don’t dwell on those budget figures because you probably have a better idea of what you are going to spend. You might even want to separate the events into 3 separate lists: Wedding, Bridal Shower, and Bachelorette weekend. Then it doesn’t seem like you are spending a whole lot of money all at once! If you have been deemed the Maid of Honor title, remember that more responsibility comes with that title. There is no need to fret. You will have help from others and your amazing lists. You will not need to spend all the money on your own. Divide things up.
Right next to the budget I like to have an itemized “things to do” list with appropriate dates that the action needs to be carried out. See below for a rough idea.

The sky is the limit, but organization is key. When you think of things, write them down! Fun ideas, places to go, etc. Granted, our brains have great memory holders, but don’t make your mind work too hard! You will be delighted to see those abstract thoughts organized onto paper and soon…the wedding planning will become effortless. For those who prefer pad and pencil to screen and mouse, check out some of my favorite organizational products from Russel and Hazel and See Jane Work.

from left to right:

• audrey a6 essential note pad
• lined jotters
• slim three-ring binder
• audrey a5 companion book – each page is half-lined and half-blank for recording notes and sketches

all available at russelandhazel.com