This list will vary from one person to the next but there should be at least a few items which everyone can agree belong in the “TOP 10”.

Counting backwards, here is my order.

10.) Time of day: Not a major item for me, which is why it rounds to ten. As a personal preference, an evening wedding reception is something I enjoy, because as many, I consider it a night out.

9.) Time of year: I know that many couples are locked into certain months, due to their work, budget or other extenuating factors, but late May or Early October would be the most ideal months for me, as the weather, at least on the East Cost, is the most cooperative.

8.) Weather: Although weather is not something you can control, I am sure that many would agree, they would love to have a bright sunny day with the temperature around 65 degrees.

7.) Location: I am sure many couples have the perfect place they would like to get married, and mine was anywhere near the Ocean. Well my dream came true when I got married at the Channel Club, in Sea Bright New Jersey, overlooking a full moon, and a beautiful bay.

6.) Open Bar: This was a hard choice, as I know many couples do not have alcohol at their weddings and I don’t believe you need to have alcohol to have a good time, but few will argue that alcohol has the components to make a party livelier.

5.) Video: As someone who will be celebrating a ten year anniversary, I can’t tell you how many times I have watched my video, which becomes even more fun when you have your kids watching with you. Plus how will I be able to remember all the spontaneous moments of the day.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wGq4ZrnJKIw

4.) Photography: Pictures, Pictures, Pictures. With the options available in album design, I would prefer a digital, Coffee Table Style album, with a customized layout, which I can display as not only a preservation of my wedding day, but a true art piece.

3.) Entertainment: DJ’s, Bands, Belly Dancers and more… The more entertainment the better the party will be. I have always believed that the two items guests remember most, is if they ate well and if they had a good time, which is usually tied into the entertainment.

2.) Food: Leading off from Entertainment, the food is always a top three item for me. I am not sure that I can stress how important food is to me and to our guests. From cocktail hour to desert, food is a top item.

1.) To have fun and create a one of a kind memory!!!! The preceding 9 steps will lead you to the number “One” spot.

I look forward to seeing other lists and your opinions.