Groom that just got engaged...

Was lurking for a while (to get ideas). Any advice that you can give me about vendors, and such would be appreciated.

We are looking to get married in Brooklyn next year. We would like the reception and ceremony in the same place. Right now we are looking at Giando on the Water as an option.

Thanks in advance.

Some advice:

Prepared to feel as if you are getting 'stuck to you' often. NOTHING is cheap!

But as Nic and I go through this, I am learning a lot.

1: Everybody wants your business. This means haggle prices and get freebies. There are tons of places for every aspect.

2: Never sign on spot. Most places will call after the meeting. That is your time to wheel and deal.

3: Research everything!! www.bbb.org (better business bureau) and website like this.

4: Make a list of your guests, bridal party etc. Get an idea of the MAX number (with guests) and the minimum (take off people you think may not come or bring guests).

5: Budget for EVERYTHING! It is VERY easy to go overboard.

6: Assuming you are a groom, be involved. I am more realist then Nichole when it comes to money. So I have to say 'no' at times when it comes to things.

7: Go to atlest 1 bridal expo. Yeah they are crazy and mind boggling BUT you can get some good ideas. The good ones even serve food.

8: Enjoy it

In the beginning, I was psyched to get things going. I took her driving past reception halls at night and began trying to figure things out. She caught the bug and took over.

I am keeping very involved up until the Limo's are picked (we have the hall, photo/video, DJ). Then she is going to be doing a lot mroe then me.

I will throw my 2 cents in now and then for thinks I like and things I dislike (like when she looks at flowers, save the dates, invites etc). Those things are mainly her domain. Unless I hate something, I let make the decisions.