Planning is everything.
Behind every good wedding is a LOT of hard work! Here's a short and simple run down of ten simple tips to help your wedding day go super smoothly:
- Timing. Allow extra time for most things. Everything tends to take longer on a wedding day - don't be an optimist on how long things will take - allow extra time. Why? Because rushing when you're late doesn't help you, your bridal party or friends and family to relax and enjoy the day. Write a schedule of the day and start everything earlier in the day if you think the time will be tight later on.
- Eat. Make sure you eat in the morning (you may not feel like it due to nerves) - you'll thank yourself later - you won't want to be hangry. Ensure it's something light - pastries and fruit are a good option! With prosecco flowing, don't drink on an empty stomach - the vows may end up being a bit more difficult to say if you're too tiddly!
- Surprise! It's always nice to have something a bit different happen during the day, whether it is secret singing waiters, an extra special choreographed first dance or an unexpected fun quiz for your guests. You'll need to plan for these things but it'll make your day stand out in peoples minds.
- Group Photos. Write your group photo lists down. Name everyone in each group (unless it is a huge group) - this stops people asking if they're included. Have someone allocated as the 'rounder upper' who can get people together for each group. It'll save you shouting and make that part of the day just that little bit more easier on you and your photographer.
- Expect the unexpected. Plan for different weather scenarios - it CAN rain in the summer, do you have a plan for this? Do you have umbrella's? Equally, do you have plans for if it is sweltering?
- Go by recommendations. Photographers have been to a lot of weddings and can be a great source of information of what works and which suppliers really go the extra mile. If you don't ask, you won't know!
- Prepare for drop outs. It's normal for people to drop out of weddings last minute (sometimes on the day) - whether they have a good excuse or not. Mentally prepare for this and try not be offended - it your day to celebrate and enjoy!
- Keep track of correspondence. Be super organised in your communication with all your suppliers and guests. Maybe set up a dedicated email address for your wedding and have folders set up for ease of finding emails. Equally, set up your calendar to help you know when payments are due.
- Ask for advice. Your suppliers are the experts in their field - ask them what they think of your plans and if anything needs to be tweaked - if they are good, they'll help you work things through.
- Take a deep breath. Try not allow yourself to get overwhelmed by the tasks. Take your time and work through them. If things get too much, delegate some things if you can to friends, family and your spouse to be!
I hope these tips help you! Below are a few photographs from Tom & Kristina's wedding in Hartland, North Devon.
