By CARLEY RONEY, Scripps Howard News Service

Q: How do I personalize my guest book? I really don't want just white pages full of signatures!
A: The key to a good guest book is to make it interactive. Rent a photo booth (or have a digital camera and printer on hand) so guests can snap pictures of themselves to tape next to their messages. Or have a wishing tree -- let guests hang notes with string from bare branches.

Q: My fiance and I want to get married where we live, but that would mean most of our family and friends would have to travel and book hotels. Should we feel guilty about this given the economy?
A: The real question is this: How much does your wedding location mean to you versus having all of your family and friends in attendance?

Q: My fiance wants to ask one of his close friends to be a groomsman, but I can't stand the guy! Do I get a say?
A: Here's the harsh truth: not really.
Listing all the things you hate about one of your guy's closest friends will only create tension and cause arguments between you two. C'mon, one groomsman isn't going to make or break your wedding.

Q: One of my bridesmaids got engaged and practically dropped off the planet. Can I take back the offer to be in my wedding party?
A: Don't kick her out just yet.
Chances are, your friend's enjoying her own moment -- and that's OK.

Q: I'm looking to save some money with my wedding (who isn't?), but where do I draw the line on DIY projects?
A: There's a fine line between being crafty and being risky.
Always hire a pro when it comes to the biggies: your cake, the catering and your photographer.

Q. I'm not big on DIY, but I need to cut a few corners. Any suggestions for ways to save on our invites?

Q. We're having a short outdoor ceremony. If it rains, we want to hand out umbrellas instead of moving guests inside. Do we still have to have a backup rain plan?
A. Absolutely! It's an absolute must to have a backup plan for outdoor weddings. Whether it's rain, wind or hail -- hey, anything can happen! -- you'll need to be prepared.

Q. Is it OK to register for a big-ticket item like a couch or a dining-room table?
A. Of course! You may have some family members who want to go in on something a little larger. Just don't have too many pricey items on your registry -- stick to one or two -- and also register for less expensive items to balance out options for friends and family.

Q. I keep hearing about wedding after-parties. What's the deal? Do we have to have one? Who do we invite?
A. An after-party is completely optional. It can be as simple as everyone heading out to a local hangout or up to a hotel suite for drinks. This is perfect if you have a reception venue that closes early or if you want to spend more time with your friends.

Q. Is it really OK to have an iPod wedding?
A. The short answer is yes, as long as you're OK with it.