We are already a week into the New Year, and I hope all of you enjoyed a fantastic holiday. And, to those of you visiting bridalguide.com for the first time, I’d love to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your engagement! Yep, holiday season is primo proposal time, and I know that there were plenty of sparkling rings being placed onto fingers shaking with delight! I’m sure it was beyond thrilling and you’ve been basking in all the joy and excitement. In fact, I ran into a newly engaged couple just last week in my local Barnes & Noble and they were so happy, it was contagious. (Of course, I was also happy to see that she was purchasing Bridal Guide to help get her started.) She admitted to feeling overwhelmed, so I told her to relax, put her feet up, read the issue and visit our website. Everything you need to know to plan a dream wedding is right here.

As you start planning your party of a lifetime, it will seem overwhelming at times, but if you stay organized and make it a point to really enjoy the process, it will be fun and exciting. And before you know it, the big day will be here, and you’ll be husband and wife! Here’s my best advice to help get you started:

1. Find Your Wedding Style

There are a thousand and one ga-jillon travel websites out there, and figuring out which one to trust can be a major time-suck. That’s where I come in.

Melanie Brandman is hands-down one of the glammest gals in travel. Sure, DVF may that whole “I’m a fashion icon” thing and a titled marriage going for her, but Melanie still may beat her in our little travel industry. As the head of one of the hautest travel PR agencies around, Melanie often spots trends in travel before the rest of us. It’s also her job to test the local waters while she visiting her clients or just jetting for fun.

Ever the savvy source, Melanie recently began an online journal of sorts highlighting her travels. The result is a chic insider view that she publishes monthly called The Travel Curator. In her monthly updates, Melanie highlights her must-sees, -dos, -eats and -experiences at some of her favorite destinations. She shares some of her secret spots, too, and of course, it is all so glam.

Sign up for The Travel Curator and read more about Melanie at thetravelcurator.com. 

—Jenna Mahoney

Photo Credit: Smitten Kitchen

I’ve decided to refocus on my health in 2012, not just because I’m hoping to look amazing in my wedding dress, but also since the cold weather has really been stalling my fitness routine. That being said, this is not a diet. I feel like the word "diet" is intimidating and sets some women up to fail.

Instead, I will make small changes to my eating habits and commit to working out more. Corey and I are both going to be in this together, so it will be nice to have his support. First, we'll start with some simple changes, like switching to whole wheat pasta, ordering half-tomato, half-Alfredo sauce to cut calories and drinking more H20. I am also going to try cooking more healthy recipes, including the following yummy options.