On Love: Planning tips and advice

From finding the perfect reception venue to where to purchase a unique bridal gown, if you're a bride- or groom-to-be looking for expert help on planning your big day you've come to the right place. We were joined by Danielle Freedman, editor of DistrictWeddings.com.

As editor of DistrictWeddings.com, Freedman combines her infatuation with breathtaking settings, love of charming details and knack for impeccable organization to bring readers the ultimate resource for all things wedding in the Greater Washington area.

For more tips, marital advice and to see how other couples have said "I do," visit our OnLove section.

The transcript follows.

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Danielle Freedman: Good Morning! I am looking forward to chatting with you all this morning and answering all of your wedding-related questions!

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Washington, D.C.: I have a decoration question. We are getting married at Mount Vernon Inn. We are excited to have a venue that does not need extra decor, but I'm stumped on the centerpieces. We are on a budget, so I think we will be avoiding floral centerpieces. What do you recommend? Thanks!

Danielle Freedman: Great question! As of late, many brides and grooms are looking for alternatives to floral centerpieces. I think lanterns or hurricane candles can add lovely ambience for a limited budget. Another idea is to do containers of fresh fruit or vegetables.

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Alexandria, Va.: I'm getting married this fall and while searching for a photographer I have been trying to decide- how far away is too far away? Being in the center of such a large metro area magazines and websites cover vendors from Bethesda to Fredericksburg all on the same page and often in the same search. What is your advise when looking for a vendor about how far away they should be from you and your wedding site?

Danielle Freedman: The great news about planning a wedding in Washington DC is that there are SO many fabulous local vendors. I would keep your search open to the "greater DC area" - a great photographer, florists or caterer is happy to travel across the beltway to help with your wedding!

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Alterations: Hi Danielle,

I got my dress from a sample sale at Vera Wang (I am on a tight budget, so that was pretty exciting). The dress needs minor alterations (mostly hemming). Instead of getting the dress altered at VW, I would like to try to find a cheaper seamstress in the area. Is that safe for the dress or should I shell out the money to get it altered at the store where I bought it?

Thanks.

Danielle Freedman How exciting! Yes, you may have better luck having your alterations done by a seamstress outside VW. Try Diana's Coutour and Bridal on Wisconsin Avenue.

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Washington, D.C.: Please help! My fiance and I (as of December) are interested in hosting a dinner reception for our wedding in September, we are on a limited budget so hotel venues are more than we can spend. Instead we would like to find a restaurant that has space for approximately 90 people for a seated dinner or a buffet. We would prefer to stay around Downtown or Capital Hill. Any suggestions? Thank you for your help!

Danielle Freedman I love the idea of having an intimate reception at a restaurant. How about 1789 Restaurant, The Occidental Restaurant, Sequoia Restaurant or 2941 Restaurant? Let us know what you decide and happy planning!

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Wedding cake alternatives: What are some recommendations for alternatives to the traditional wedding cake? And, please don't say cupcakes . . . that's so overdone!

Danielle FreedmanYes - cupcakes have been everywhere! Instead, how about Petit Fours or a plate of your favorite cookies? I also love the look of colored macaroons that go with your theme and decor. Also, perhaps you serve a dessert drink with a chocolate covered cherry or chocolate with your monogram or date to each guest while they are seated?

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Washington, D.C.: My fiance and I think it's smart to have rudimentary pre-marital counseling sessions before we tie the knot in June. We're not religious, and we're having trouble finding a low-cost alternative to church-based pre-martial counseling options. Any suggestions?

Danielle Freedman: Yes, premarital counseling can be very helpful for couples to learn how to talk to each other, understand the commitment of life together and to foster necessary discussions that explore expectations. Erin Morey, a local marriage therapist, may be just the right fit for you and your fiance. Learn more at www.erinmorey.com.

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Arlington, Va.: What about budget wedding dresses or used wedding dresses? I keep coming up with David's Bridal and I Do I Do as the only choices. I don't really like the dresses at David's, but haven't yet been to I Do I Do. Ideally, I only want to spend a few hundred dollars on the dress. Do you have any other ideas as to where I can search?

Danielle Freedman: I think the best way to get a dress for a great price is to check out the sample sales around town! Carine's Bridal Atelier and Hitched both have quite the line up over the next few weeks of fabulous deals and special offers!

For a gently used dress, check out www.preownedweddingdresses.com. They have a huge selection of bridal gowns from top designers at all sizes and price points.

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Washington, D.C.: Any suggestions for a location for a little person's wedding? We want privacy and not too much fanfare/attention from the public.

Danielle Freedman: What kind of venue are you thinking about for your wedding? A hotel, historic property, museum, etc? And, how many guests?

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Washington, D.C.: Planning an engagement party, but are working on a SERIOUSLY tight budget. What are some reasonably priced venue recommendations in the D.C. area?

Danielle Freedman: For a "seriously tight budget", I would recommend that you offer an open bar with beer and wine only and light fare. I love the Darlington House, Sonoma, Poste, Dino, George or Coco Sala.

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washingtonpost.com: Thanks to Danielle Freedman for joining us today. Don't forget to check out www.washingtonpost.com/weddings for more planning tips and advice.

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Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.