(WTNH) — You just got engaged, but there’s still lots of work to be done to make your big day the best day of your life.

Organizing expert Lisa Lelas has some tips to help brides and grooms with their wedding plans.

1) Start a wedding binder
In a 3 ring binder, with page dividers for various categories: Wedding dresses, ceremony, reception, caterers, florists, photographers, honeymoon, etc.

2) Create a master checklist
List everything that needs to be done with timeline goals as to when to accomplish them by.

3) Determine your budget and stick to it
The best way to cut down on expenses is to cut the guest list and select a venue on off-peak days and times of the wedding.

4) Decide on your wedding party and contact attendants
Be clear as to your expectations for each attendant, whether they are to purchase their dress, rent their own tux or provide any other services.

5) Create a guest list
Purchase a guest book to have at the reception. Decide on seating. List guests on a spreadsheet with columns for contact info, RSVP’s, gifts and other relevant info.

6) Research wedding providers
Florists, bakeries, photographers, dress shops, limo companies and print shops for invitations, etc.

7) Send out Save the Dates
Send out notices six months in advance and reserve a block of rooms at a nearby hotel for out of town guests.

8) Start an online wedding website
Include directions to the wedding reception, hotel info, and even registration details. Free websites are available specifically for this at such sites as www.WeddingChannel.com