When planning a wedding [1], it's easy for a bride's voice [2] to get lost among opinionated family members. Well guess what? If you're the bride, it's your wedding. It's not fair when people who aren't getting married try to make decisions about your big day.

We know that sometimes you have to let things go, but there are several times when a bride absolutely must stand up for herself. When planning your wedding, make sure you have the final say on the following five items.

The Dress

Wedding dress shopping [3] is supposed to be fun and celebratory, but just one person can ruin it all with too many opinions. Go with a small group of people who have your best interest at heart, and in the end, pick what you love the most no matter what.

The Theme

The theme of a wedding should reflect the personality of the bride and groom, not the tastes of family, friends, or a wedding planner. Choose what makes the most sense for your union.

The Bridesmaids

The bridesmaids and the maid of honor [4] should be women who you as the bride feel the closest connections with. Don't let anybody tell you who should and should not be in your wedding party.

The Hair and Makeup

It's going on your own face and hair, after all! You want to feel like yourself on your big day, not some weird or over-the-top version of yourself. Test out a few hair and makeup artists before making a decision. Also make sure that the people you pick are paying attention to your preferences.

The Flowers

Much like the theme of your wedding, the flowers should reflect who you are as a bride. You have to hold a big bouquet of them as you walk down the aisle, so they should be blooms that you love!