Alessandra (Ali) does a fantastic job of describing and identifying the proverbial characters and situations that certainly every bride encounters along the wedding-planning journey. At the same time, she provides the reader with a slew of wedding planning tips.  She also gives you real-world advice designed to help any bride be better prepared for her new life.

The book is cleverly organized in “Tables” (like the ones you will have at your reception venue, not literally, but you get the point). Each table is part of the “floor plan” of common situations you will encounter as soon as you have that sparkling ring on your finger. One of my favorite Tables is #2, the “Pre-Planning Checklist.” According to Ali, “While no one wants to invite Debbie Downer to the wedding, I wouldn’t be able to present this book to you in its most complete, honest form without saving her a seat this table.” Another highlight of the book is “The Tough Questions” section, which delves into the fundamental issue of whether you and your fiancee are truly made for each other.

I was surprised to know that Ali interviewed various experts in relationships (including marriage counselors, therapists, and mediators). She wisely sprinkles their wisdom in relationships  throughout. Ali also passes along personal stories of her own wedding-planning ride – many of which are a hoot! – as well as the experiences of other couples. Topics such as wedding mishaps, relationships with in-laws, and sudden jealous friends will keep you turning the pages with lightning pace (oh, you’re going to love “Narcy Darcy”).   For those of who may (and probably will at some point!) find themselves stressed and struggling to deal with people’s antics and not so well intended comments, Ali’s advice is simple:

“Every moment you spend getting annoyed or being upset over something someone else has done or said is a precious moment being taken away from your wedding, your life and your happiness.” Amen, sister!

I can tell you that Ali’s book is about so much more than the logistical decisions and choices facing the bride-to-be. Yes, there are helpful and practical tips on preparing for your big day, but Ali reminds the reader that a wedding is over in a few hours, but a marriage is intended to last a lifetime!

If you’re a bride-to-be or think you might be at some point down the road, give yourself the “The Real-Deal Bridal Bible.” This would be also a great read for your newly engaged girlfriend.  Present her with Ali’s book and know that she’ll laugh her bottom-off at times, and at others, she will give some serious thought to the business of getting married. In the end, she’ll know you care for her.

ABOUT ALESSANDRA MACALUSO

Alessandra Macaluso is author of “The Real-Deal Bridal Bible: The Must-Have, Real-Deal Guide for Brides”, available on Amazon and Kindle. It’s perfect for brides-to-be, hilarious for brides-who-have-been, and ESSENTIAL for brides-who-may-one-day-be. A freelance writer and creator at heart, Alessandra also writes screenplays, articles, and business/product reviews. She has contributed to The Huffington Post, Scary Mommy, Uptown Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, and Yelp.com, among other publications, and was featured in the New York Times “Life and Style” section for her review of Ulta Beauty. Her original screenplay, “Polar Suburbia”, placed as a semi-finalist in the 2009 Moondance Film Festival. To learn more about Alessandra you can visit her blog at punkwife.com or visit her Google Author Profile. Check out the the book’s new website!

Please leave me your comments below and let me know what other wedding related topics you are interested about.

Thanks and happy planning!

Esme
esme@bodamaestradc.com