PHOTO: Lynne Reznick Photography
Your engagement season is a time to celebrate and surround yourself with friends and family as you look ahead to your upcoming nuptials. Celebratory dinners and parties are expected, but is it wise to involve them when it comes to planning the wedding"

The answer greatly depends on your existing relationships with your loved ones. It can mean a lot for them to feel included in the process, but if someone oversteps, it can lead to unnecessary stress and tension. However, you may find it valuable to have a sounding board to discuss ideas and ask for feedback from trusted people in your corner.

?Talking through things with friends and family can help you figure out what direction you want to go, especially if you’re on the fence about a certain item or detail,? says Mandy Hess of MJM Designs. It can be especially beneficial to lean on those who have gone through the wedding planning process and can offer tips and vendor referrals.
It?s true ? we can all get by with a little help from our friends (and family). However, Michelle Vining of LOLA Event Productions cautions against involving too many people in the planning process. ?Weddings involve a lot of decisions, and if inviting too many opinions, your decisions about what you truly want could become clouded by trying to please someone else,? she explains.

Choosing appropriate responsibilities for your loved ones is key to balancing their involvement with a stress-free planning ...