They wanted something a little different than the normal bar hopping experience. That was sooooo last year.

So I have gathered some ideas I thought I would share.

• Scavenger Hunt. If the bride-to-be is stuck on going out, then make it a little bit more interesting. Make up about five to 10 cards with questions about the next location (or bar). You can have a small gift at each location for her. Maybe items for her to wear that night. Veil, ring pop (for her engagement ring), etc. Or, heck, take a shot at each location. Whatever the bride is into…

• Pottery. So if you are the bride that idea #1 sounds like the worst night ever, try something a little bit calmer. Having a party at one of the much paint your own pottery business in Arkansas. Have 6 or more people in your group? It would be a good idea to have each person paint a personalized plate and “gift” it to the bride as a wedding gift – giving the bride a complete set of plates and a special memory for the day.

• Lake house/cabin. Renting a cabin or lake house just for the girls is really fun any time of year. In the summer, combine this with renting a party barge and going on the lake for some fun in the sun. In the fall, spend the afternoon hiking a surrounding trail. Arkansas has many choices of cabins and locations to choose from. Visit www.arkansasstateparks.com for locations near you or your favorite lake or trail.

• Spa day. For the bride who would rather be pampered than rough it in the woods, plan a spa day for her and her closest friends. Many spas offer packages that caterer to groups and in some cases could include brunch or lunch and a cocktail or two.

• Symphony/musical/play. This is a great idea for the bride who needs to be entertained. Check the calendars in your area for any upcoming plays, musicals or symphony productions and get the group together for the show. A night out on the town can always follow.

Take a deep breath and think about what is important to you. Not your best friend and not your mom, but YOU. And maybe your groom-to-be. I guess he should have a say, too.

Think about what things will matter the most at your wedding and reception, and those are maybe the things you don’t want to skimp on.

Is having good photos important to you? (And for most, they are.) Then this may not be an area you need to be cheap on. Find the best photographer to fit your budget and style, but don’t hire your friend’s sister because she has a camera. You don’t have to order every print they take, but you will want some good quality pictures that will last a lifetime.

What about the event location? Maybe you have always dreamed of being married in a certain location. OK – don’t let a few dollars stop you; you’ll just need to look at other areas to cut costs to get the right location.

Think about the look of the event – fresh flowers always make a huge impact, but you can always talk to your florist about using your dollars wisely. I have seen many florists bring in items from the bride and groom that will help in rental fees — like glass vases, bottles or even old heirlooms. This can fill up the space with flowers and create a unique look that is also more economical.

Another area I think doesn’t need to be overlooked is the food. Let’s face it — your uncle doesn’t care about what shade of pink is on the linens even if you do, but he will care what kind of food is there. Guests walk away saying, “what a beautiful wedding … and the food was great!” or not. You don’t have to serve a plated dinner or even a full buffet. You can work with your caterer to provide the right amount of good food for the right price. Don’t bring in a fruit tray and call it a day. This will leave the wrong lasting impression of your wedding.

And last, but not least, don’t skimp on your wedding dress. I am not saying this has to be the most expensive one you can find, but by all means, be happy with your selection. You will be the center of attention. There is no doubt about this, so choose a dress that fits your style (and of course your budget). You don’t have to wear your cousin Mary’s hand-me-down just to save a few bucks. Have a budget in mind and shop around. Stores can offer you great selections if you give them a price range and style and this will take a little stress off you.

Regardless of all this advice, don’t go broke having your wedding. It is a very special day and you want it to be perfect, but you don’t want to be paying for it for the next 15 years. Think ahead, plan a budget and don’t get too caught up in the moment to remember the true meaning of the day.