''Wedding Tips from the Top''

January 3, 2013 (MMD Newswire) -- More couples get engaged over the Holiday Season and New Year's Eve than at any other time during the year. So congratulations to the more than 100,000 recently engaged couples, and here a few tips from some of the top wedding planners in the business."Most weddings are booked with very long lead times these days, so if you have a certain supplier in mind like a band or a particular venue, contract with them immediately so you don't lose the date to another couple" advises Ms. Beverly Ann Bonner, ABC Master Bridal Consultant from Norwood, MA ( www.WeddingBeautiful.com). "Also ask suppliers about all the options they offer, so you can pick just what is right for you.""Reflect on the overall style of your wedding before you purchase your wedding gown, so your wedding can have a consistent theme throughout and highlight your unique history together," suggests Mary Jo Gallegos, ABC Master Bridal Consultant from Beaumont, CA (www.AnAffairoftheHeart.com) "Be realistic with your and your families' finances and pick what is most important to you, i.e. flowers, entertainment, or a fabulous wedding video, and adjust your budget accordingly.""Consider working with an experienced wedding planner so you can avoid costly mistakes. Experienced wedding planners may also be able to get better pricing from suppliers than a one-time bride can get on her own," says Ms. JoAnn Gregoli, ABC Master Bridal Consultant from New York, NY (www.ElegantOccasions.com) " And try to find one that has completed her professional training, such as the Professional Development Program offered by the Association of Bridal Consultants ("ABC"). That way you can have the inside track on planning, and relax and have fun."ABC is the oldest and largest group of wedding planners in the world, now with over 4,000 members located in all 50 states and 31 countries. Brides can go to (www.BridalAssn.com ) or call 1-860-355-7000 to locate an ABC professional wedding planner near to them. ABC has been providing training, networking, and career support to the industry's top wedding planners since 1955. ABC emphasizes on-going professional education and all members agree to uphold the ABC Code of Ethics and Professional Standards of Membership.