Keeping within a budget during wedding planning can be difficult. You may have family and friends encouraging you to spend less. Some may come forward to offer to serve in various roles for your big day.

While this is a sweet gesture, and may be a successful way for you to have the wedding of your dreams within a reasonable budget, tread carefully. People get so excited about weddings; often, they take on more responsibility than they can really handle. (Have you read that story about the mother-in-law who tried to make the Titanic-themed bridesmaids gowns?)

Consider all the aspects of using a friend instead of a professional wedding vendor.

• Will they do what you want or will they do what they think you need?
• Will they stay within budget?
• Will they meet deadlines?
• While they may have the skill for the task in question, can they handle the volume associated with a wedding?

If, after considering the options, you still feel the need to hire a professional, be sure to give your friend an important task worthy of their offer. Invite them to be a part of your ceremony or in your house party. Consider asking them to be the “floater” on the wedding day to take care of all those little things that come up.