Planning a wedding is like playing a sport. Follow our game plan and remember that the pain is temporary, but what you’re doing is forever.

Going vintage is a challenge. Cut your losses with a whimsical gown by new line Ivy & Aster. Lovely bridal shop also stocks the duo’s stunning cocktail-length numbers and bright chiffon bridesmaids dresses.

Flash sale site The Aisle New York runs deep discounts on gowns from big names like Monique Lhuillier, Amsale, and Jenny Packham. A customizable capsule collection with Issac Mizrahi drops April 5, but fresh-off-the-runway jewelry and accessories from Oscar de la Renta are available now.

If a groom can be convinced to buy, coax him into a bespoke tux or suit, shirt, and tie by Doyle Mueser. Each is made from materials we’d probably stow in a vault. If he’s reluctant, seal the deal by playing him classic James Bond films to prove the powers of a well-dressed man.

Brooklynite Kimberly Canale of Inspired Goodness uses retro typography and imagery to create paper goods, invites, menus, and save the dates that capture a couple’s story.

If you’re up for a drive, Echo Letterpress in Jeffersonville, New York, fashions refined invites your uppity college pals will find difficult to criticize.

Now’s a good time to jump on the food-truck-as-caterer bandwagon. Loaded with overstuffed ice cream sandwiches, L.A. cult favorite Coolhaus hits NYC streets April 15.

The Red Hook Lobster Pound launches its mobile outpost in May. Can’t wait? The restaurant will set up a nonwheeled lobster roll station at your fete.

Staged wedding pictures are boring, but shots by The Wedding Artists Collective are works of art — the subject of which just happens to be a marriage. Expect personal, out-of-the-ordinary documentation (snapped with digital, Polaroid, and 120 film) of your day without any weirdness. 

Brooklyn’s Kat Flower treats blooms as a chef would food. Each ingredient/stem is chosen for color, texture, shape, and expression, and arranged to bring out its best. Fresh-cut bouquets and centerpieces can be ordered or re-created during intimate in-home classes for brides-to-be and their attendants. (Email kathleen@katflower.com for a consultation.)

Get hitched in a centuries-old barn at Full Moon Farm. The Catskill homestead has an updated-yet-rustic farmhouse for the wedding party with plenty of B&Bs within twenty miles for guests.

If you’d prefer to keep it urban, the just-opened Mondrian Soho has a top-floor penthouse with one hell of a view that’s perfect for an intimate (80 to 100 guests) reception.

Catering by Imperial No. Nine won’t hurt either.

If you’re doubtful of Aunt Ida’s taste level, create your wish list with Foodie Registry. (The NYC edition launches today.) Request future dinners at L’Artusi, Pescatore, or Dell’anima — if you eat out, you’ll never miss those unclaimed serving platters.