Despite brides’ sunny outlook, style expert and wedding consultant Michael O’Connor encourages couples to think smart and reprioritize their budget by investing in areas of the wedding day that have longevity, versatility and symbolism — since these items will last a lifetime.

“A wedding can take months to plan — yet it’s over in a few hours,” comments O’Connor. “The dress goes into a storage box, the flowers become today’s trash and the only reminder of your wedding music is the bill.”

Below, O’Connor offers his smart wedding spending and investment tips:

Sharing Memories
This is your big day so don’t skimp on hiring a professional photographer. Make sure to view his or her portfolio and ask for references. A good photographer will know how to capture those spontaneous and emotional wedding moments without making you pose like statues for hours.

Make the Ring Count
Now more than ever, brides are realizing the significance of quality and longevity when it comes to their bridal jewelry, so it is no surprise that 81 percent of brides desire platinum rings, according to the Condé Nast Bridal Group. Platinum is not only 30 times more rare than gold, but it’s also the most durable of all precious metals, so it won’t wear down over time. And because of its strength, it holds the diamond more securely. Platinum is the one metal that delivers the high quality and long-lasting features that brides and grooms are looking for today in her engagement ring and his-and-her wedding bands.

Your First Trip as Husband and Wife
Spend time selecting the destination for your honeymoon that is meaningful and exciting to both the bride and groom. After all, couples will remember their honeymoon and recount stories from the trip for the next 50+ years.