Showing appreciation is a top tool for Planning in Peace.

After all, you have a big wedding team of parents, bridal party members, helpful relatives and friends, and vendors who are working hard (and often spending lots of time and money) to create your Dream Day. Some of these people might be spending way more than they can spare just to be there for you. So they deserve a nice Thank You call or e-mail in the middle of the planning stages, just so they know you're grateful for all they're doing.

Problems can brew when these people think you expect them to do all of this for you, that you don't feel the need to say thanks. That's when egos get in the way, feelings get hurt, people assume you're all about Me, Me, Me. After all, when's the last time you called just to say hello? Lately, you've only contacted them when you want something for the wedding. If this is making you cringe, when you think about how long it's been since you called as a friend or a sister, you're not alone! All brides get super-hectic in their lives, and they often forget to connect on a non-bride basis. So make some time tonight to send a little thank you e-mail, or call to see how your friend is doing, how her vacation was, how her kids are doing in school or in softball. With all that you have on your plate, it'll mean the world to your loved ones that you're thinking of them.