For most brides-to-be, the scenario is basically the same. Mr. Right professes his unending love in the form of a beautiful diamond engagement ring, she responds with an emphatic “yes” and they both run to the phone to announce the good news to family and friends.

Now all that’s left is to say “I do” and enjoy a lifetime of happiness with one another, right? Wrong.

Sure, the hardest part is over. You’ve found Mr. Right. But unless you two lovebirds are planning to elope or head down to City Hall before it closes for the day, it’s time to plan what will likely be one of the biggest days in your life – your wedding day.

Brides contemplating hiring a wedding coordinator will spend more money in doing so, but will also benefit from the coordinator’s experience and contacts.

Cecy Gomez, owner of Exquisite Events in Discovery Bay, is a certified wedding planner of nearly 10 years. Gomez said the average wedding costs between $25,000 and $30,000, while platinum weddings can cost up to $60,000.

Gomez said a good wedding coordinator is present from the moment the groom asks his bride-to-be for her hand in marriage till the moment the two leave on their honeymoon. But it’s not only about managing every detail of the wedding; the coordinator is often responsible for relieving the bride and groom’s anxiety.

“Most people don’t realize how much goes into planning a wedding,” Gomez said. “It’s not just finding a good baker or florist; it’s the little things like ‘will candles on the (reception) tables make a difference in my evening wedding?’ or who to tip and how much. For people planning their own weddings, it can be a very stressful time. Sometimes you just need an expert’s help.”

Once the big day has arrived, Gomez and her team of assistants work closely with the bride and groom while also greeting guests, directing vendors and ensuring the event runs smoothly.

“From the engagement to the honeymoon, this should be a time for the bride and groom to enjoy themselves and the moment,” Gomez said.

Regardless of whether you choose to plan the event yourself or hire a professional, there are a few things that need to be addressed.

First, set a date. You can’t reserve a location, an officiant or any of your vendors without one, so it’s best to get it done early.

Secondly, establish a wedding budget so there are no surprises along the way. The bride and groom, and anyone else who might be helping with the costs, need to be on the same page when it comes to how much will be spent.

Next, decide how big (or small) you intend to keep your affair. Make a tentative guest list of those you want to invite, keeping in mind it’s likely to expand as news of your big day spreads.

When selecting a location for the wedding and reception, keep in mind the weather and what time of year you plan to wed. Whether it’s a destination wedding on a tropical island, a quaint celebration in a friend’s back yard or a lavish affair in a fancy hotel, take into consideration how comfortable you and your guests will be. An outdoor garden party in the winter probably isn’t the best idea.

Ask friends and family for suggestions on vendors. Personal organizers or pre-made wedding planner books will keep you on task and are a good place to store all of your vendor information.

Once you’ve interviewed vendors and think you’ve found the right ones, book them immediately. Other brides will be doing the same thing at a frantic pace.

Above all, this should be a fun time in your life. Enjoy it and try not to sweat the small stuff. Even if everything doesn’t go exactly according to plan, the only thing that matters is that you and Mr. Right are finally hitched. Congratulations – now all that’s left is a lifetime of happiness.

For more information about Exquisite Events, call 925-705-9869 or visit them online.