Q: I love my wedding photos, but I’m not sure I can afford my photographer’s prices for an album. What are some good options for putting one together myself?

A: Before you write off your photographer’s album outright, see if she offers different pricing options. Then, consider the benefits of a professionally designed book. While the tab can reach upward of $1,500, the end result is worth it, says New York-based photographer Christian Oth. “It’s an heirloom that will be passed down, and a pro knows how to create an outstanding visual story, from aligning margins and spacing to retouching and tweaking the layout.” It’s also the easiest, quickest way to get a gorgeous album (if you’re a procrastinator, you may not get around to DIYing one until your silver anniversary).

If you’re not able to rejigger your budget, or you just like the idea of making a bound keepsake on your own, there are other routes you can take. For a digitally printed album that you design yourself, try ArtifactUprising.com, where you can upload and arrange your photos online using a template, then turn the reins over to the company for printing and binding; consider the lie-flat version, from $119. For a little more money, but less effort on your end, commission a business such as TweedWolf.com to cull, edit, crop and lay out your photos in a bound book (from $270).

Or, the simplest — and most affordable — DIY method is compiling an old-school scrapbook — photo corners and all. If you go this route, shop for one with acid-free pages so your photos won’t discolor over time. You might try the selection of fabric- and leather-covered books from ClaireMagnolia.com, starting at $65 each. For a complete list of photo-album sources, visit marthastewartweddings.com/weddingalbum101.

Tip: When arranging photos yourself, do what the pros do and put them in chronological order, starting with the pre-wedding prep shots and ending with those from the dance floor.

Q: I’m a responsible person. Do I really need to insure my engagement ring?

A: In a word: yes. Because there’s always the chance something could happen. We know your ring is priceless, emotionally speaking, but insurance will minimize the financial loss should it get damaged, lost or stolen. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you can add a rider that extends the policy to cover your sparkler. Or, get a stand-alone policy with a jewelry insurer, which costs about 1 percent to 2 percent of the piece’s value annually. (In both cases, a $5,000 ring could be as little as $50 a year to insure.) Before committing, read the fine print and factor in the deductible. “Make sure your ring is covered in the ‘mysterious disappearance’ category — that’s where some policies fall short,” said Trina Woldt, chief marketing officer for Jewelers Mutual. To apply, you’ll need a photo and a jeweler’s appraisal that’s no more than two years old.

Q: What details should we include in the program for our secular ceremony?

A: Your program is the place to let your guests know what’s what and to highlight moments in your nuptials. Usually the cover has your names or monogram, and the wedding date and location. The next bit of business, on the first page inside, is to list everyone involved in the service. Put bridesmaids first, followed by groomsmen, the officiant, ushers and musicians. Then write up the events in the order they will occur: the officiant’s welcome, the titles of readings or songs, the ring exchange and any cultural rituals. On the last page, you can get sentimental by thanking loved ones, remembering deceased relatives or printing a quote or lyric that’s special for you two.

Q: I’m officiating my friend’s wedding. Are there things that I absolutely should, or should not, mention?

A: “You want the ceremony to be unique to the couple,” said Jessie Blum, a civil celebrant in Rutherford, New Jersey. “Ask them to tell you their favorite relationship stories. Use those as a jumping-off point, and don’t be afraid to offer advice that applies to them.” At the ceremony, start by welcoming everyone. After that, you might describe how the couple met, and then talk about the meaning of marriage. As for what to leave out: “Past relationships, embarrassing stories and anything that would make the event feel more like a roast,” said Blum. That might fly at the rehearsal dinner (or not, depending on the couple), but a ceremony should be sweet and sacred.

Q: I mailed our invitations before realizing we didn’t include the time our wedding begins! What’s the best plan of action?

A: “Start by taking a deep breath — mistakes happen,” said senior editor Jaime Buerger. Then send a follow-up mailing as soon as possible. “This can be a straightforward ‘corrections’ card with the time of the ceremony,” noted Jaime. “Or, if you can swing the additional expense, print a more detailed itinerary that spells out when each weekend event is happening, with sections for the welcome party, ceremony, reception and any other festivities, such as an after-party or next-day brunch.” Either way, prominently display the time the wedding will begin and any other important information about your big day’s events on your website, and ask attendants to get the word out, too.

Q: Most guests will be traveling to our wedding. Should we invite them all to the rehearsal dinner?

A: Only people at the actual ceremony run-through — the bride and groom, their parents, the officiant, attendants and readers, plus their dates — must be included in the meal that follows. But if your budget allows, it’s a friendly gesture (and a fun time) to invite all out-of-towners, or locals and travelers alike, and turn it into a welcome reception. Or, you could dine with the wedding party only, then ask everyone else to join for drinks or dessert. At the very least, give far-flung guests restaurant or bar recommendations so they can gather elsewhere on their own.