Many of us have come to rely on the internet for research and guidance in almost every aspect of our lives. It is practically impossible to think of a subject that doesn't have a multitude of websites catering for it. From initial information gathering to the detailed planning to putting it all into practice, the internet is your faithful friend. But would you trust it with the biggest day of your life?

Many couples would love to be able to hire a wedding consultant to ease the stress of organizing such a major event. Unfortunately, the cost puts it out of their reach. There are many cheaper alternatives available but how good are they? Can online wedding planner software meet your needs and deliver the perfect occasion? What about a free service? Let's take a look at what is on offer.

Can a free online wedding planning service really help to keep track of every detail of the organizing process? Budgets, guest lists, seating plans, service providers, event scheduling, to do lists with timelines and much more. So what can your virtual wedding planner do for you?

You wedding checklist

Start with a list of over a hundred items and customise it to your needs. Add or remove items to make it your own. From the proposal to wedding day, every item is covered. Check them of as they are done and view only what is left to do. Get helpful hints on the item you are working on.

Budget control

The budget template includes all the basic items you will need to account for with some estimated costs, but is also flexible to allow for any changes you would like to make. You can keep track of spending in particular areas, who is paying for these items and you can make notes and reminders.

Guest list tracking

Keep track of the guests who will be at the wedding, reception and other events. Record names, addresses and contact details. Who has been invited, who has responded and how will they be participating? Note their birthdays, anniversaries and other important events, plus your own comments and get email reminders.

Dealing with your suppliers

You will be dealing with a whole list of service providers. Have easy access to contact names, phone, fax, email address, website, and your comments all in one place. You will know how to contact them and when you need to.

Preliminary events

If you have other events planned leading up to the wedding, like bridal showers, rehearsals or hen nights, you can keep up to speed on them and so can everyone else via your guest page. Get email reminders of all important events and deadlines.

Putting it all together

This is a huge amount of information you have entered into the system but it is all at your finger tips through lists. You can access the information from any category, sort it alphabetically, by date or in whatever way suits you and print it off to carry with you while you are shopping or to give to your suppliers.

It almost seems as though online wedding planner software can do more for you than a real wedding planner. And all for free. Like most things on the internet, you have to make your own choice as to whether you can trust the source, but in this case, it is just a matter of getting a free account and checking out the service.