What is the American dream and how is it applied to women? The American dream is to get rich or die trying. Every woman's dream is to meet prince charming and have a remarkable wedding. We as women map out our lives by the age of ten. We tell our friends I want to get married at twenty-four and have kids by the age of twenty-six. We discus how big our family will be and how we want to marry doctors and lawyers, but we never take into account the reality of life. The reality is you hardly ever get what you want and have to fight for what you have. However, what do you do when you have found Mr. Perfect and need to plan a wedding? First, take a deep breath and relax. You need to get over the initial shock that he finally proposed to you. Second, plan an engagement party to let your family and friends know. Third, read the rest of my article because I have several tips to help you cope with the wedding planning process. First of all, I would like to congratulate you on your engagement.

Now you feel like the luckiest woman alive because you are about to marry the man you've been waiting for your whole life. He and you share something special that some women long for, but just haven't met their Mr. Right. On the other hand, most women get caught up planning their wedding that they forget they even have prince charming by their self. *tip* don't take any stresses you might have out on your man. Remember, you are planning this wedding because of your love for him. He is not the reason for your dress being improperly altered or any delays. Make him feel apart of the wedding planning process. It's his wedding just as much as it is yours. *tip* if you need someone to talk to during your stressful time check out http://www.njwedding.com/articles/weddingstressbusters.cfm they offer expert advice on any questions you might have pertaining to your relationship with your fiancé.

Make sure you stay within budget. American Express performed a nationwide survey of 500 newlyweds. They found that almost six-in-ten (58 percent) of newlyweds felt that having to deal with the financial aspect of wedding planning was the most discouraging. The Results of the survey revealed that 80 percent of newlyweds questioned felt that spending associated with their wedding was stressful, with 24 percent of all respondents saying it was "very stressful." *tip* you can stay within budget by using a budget worksheet and calculator. Check one out at http://www.wedding-needs.com/wedding-budget-1.asp

Make sure you save a wedding favor and frame your invitations for long-lasting memories of your special day. I hope my tips help make planning your wedding much easier. I wish you and your spouse many years of happiness.