I've been meaning for weeks to post on the new gorgeous issue of
Real Simple Weddings, one of my favorite bridal guides. I love Real Simple because, go figure, they're all about taking the stuffy and overwhelming out of planning, and injecting it with some fresh ideas and style.

So what sort of ideas do they have for DC-area brides? Washingtonpost.com recently hosted a live chat with Real Simple Weddings Deputy Editor Rachel Hardage, who took questions from local gals looking to plan their "big day on a small budget". Read the full transcript here.