Awesome Tips for Planning a Wedding
Planning a wedding can be a very stressful task. For brides who have never been married before, and even for those who are making it down the aisle a second time, there are many facets to preparing a wedding, it's no wonder that brides can feel daunted. When I first meet with my clients, we sit down and go over all their thoughts about what a dream wedding would be for them. I usually bring a list of words, that I ask the client to look over, and choose which ones bring to mind their fantasy wedding. Though this may seem like a silly task, from the words that are chosen, I can get a feel for the theme or style that this particular bride is hoping for during her wedding. That is one of the most important elements of planning a wedding. Once a theme or style is determined, it can set in motion the vendors who need to be chosen to bring this dream to life. It also make the planning easier when one has something precise in their mind; all the vendors then know what is being asked of them, and can cooperate to make that goal a reality.
Another tip is to always compare prices. Even though you may meet with one vendor and fall in love with that person's ideas, it is in the client's best interest to measure that with someone else's thoughts. By receiving proposals from a few vendors, you can compare prices, and also see who will give you more for your money. Some vendors will be very attentive to your needs, and the level of their devotion to your wedding will be outlined in their proposal, and during your initial consultation. When you see a vendor who is willing to go the extra mile for a client (i.e. staying later than necessary during the day of, is always prompt when returning your calls, listens to your concerns), you know this person will perform to the best of his/her capabilities when it really counts on your wedding day.
A piece of advice that should not be ignored is to get everything in writing. From your vendors, to your ceremony location, it is in your best interest to have your wants stated in a contract or agreement. Some officiants tend to not want to send out a contract, so I suggest asking him/her to write a letter acknowledging all the services expected for the wedding day. It always important to have your desires written to avoid any confusion with your vendors regarding your dreams, and it also acts as an insurance policy if they do not comply with your ideas in the end. Also, if you are planning on doing something unique (using unusual flowers, for example), it is most important that it is written so everyone is clear and understands what his/her responsibilities may be. A contract enables both the client and vendor to know exactly what they both need to do in order to make the day a success.
When meeting with prospective vendors, one should ask if he/she is certified or a member of an affiliated national group. While being in an organization or having certification does not necessarily make one vendor better than another, it does show that this individual took an extra step. Likewise, just because a vendor does not belong to a reputable organization, it does not mean that your perfect event will become a disaster unless you use someone who is certified. All this truly shows it the level of importance the business is in that vendor's life, which shows the level of commitment you may receive.
Do not overlook the importance of tasting the food! One wouldn't purchase a new car without test-driving it, so the same should be said in regard to the food served at a wedding. A caterer may be the nicest person in the world, but if the food doesn't taste well, that is what the guests are going to always remember. Choosing the right caterer for your wedding is one area that is best not to skimp on, as it is an incredibly important component of the reception.
Some people may view hiring a wedding coordinator to be a luxury, but in many cases, enlisting the assistance of a professional can truly make planning a wedding much easier. While it is another expense, if one uses a great coordinator, they can work within any budget to make the wedding a success. In today's busy world, engaged couples do not have the time to do all of the legwork and research needed to plan their special day. By hiring a coordinator, he/she already knows of many locations, vendors, and resources that would best fit into the couples planning, and therefore saves the couple precious time. Also, a great coordinator can even help the couple save money by knowing where to cut costs. A coordinator takes care of the many intricate little details that occur when putting on a wedding, to ensure the couple can relax, and have a wonderful and stress-free day.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Tips for a GREAT wedding video!
Tips for a GREAT wedding video
Everything is perfect: Your family and friends are seated comfortably, the flowers look divine, the music is being played in key, and you know the caterers are busy making sure the food for the reception afterwards is scrumptious. The only thing left to do now is walk down the isle and wed the person of your dreams. Off you go!
Nightmare of all nightmares! You are sitting at the head table and the only reason you know you actually got married is because there is a gold band on your finger! You were so nervous and excited all at once that your mind is drawing a complete blank. All the effort, the planning, the endless sacrifices all year long and you don't have a single recollection of how things went. Yikes.
There is insurance against this all-to-common wedding amnesia: A wedding video! It will bring you, your family and friends, countless evenings of enjoyment and recollection simply at the flick of your remote control. The cost will be nominal and a professional video will bring you countless years of enjoyment.
The best person to entrust with capturing your special day is a professional Wedding-Videographer. The old saying that "A hammer does not a carpenter make" is good to remember when hiring a professional to film your wedding. The best person to ask for advice on this is your Wedding Planner. They will have a Videographer that they trust enough to put their name to so that you will have one less thing to worry about. It's It is after all, their job. If you are planning your own wedding, here are ten questions you should ask to ensure that you pick the best Videographer for the big day:
1. Video cameras are not all the same. Hi8 or DV provide a higher quality than the standard camcorder. Some of the best digital units include the Panasonic 100b and the Canon XL2.
2. 3-chip CCD cameras will have the best Digital quality. You don't need to know what it means other than "the best possible chipset for the best possible image."
3. Ask to view a "wedding video sample" tape. This will give you an idea of what the quality will be like when you get yours.
4. Do they use wireless microphones? If they do, great, if they don't ask them to get one.
5. Is the Videographer unobtrusive? They should be.
6. What do they dress while filming? Make sure they dress neat and tidy. Blue jeans are NOT acceptable wedding-wear.
7. What back up equipment do they have? It should be comparable in quality to the original.
8. Price?? Most Videographers have several packages. Choose the one that fits within your budget and captures what you desire.
9. Do they use 1 camera or 2?. If 2 cameras is the second operator an extra charge?
10. Bookings? Make sure you give them specific instructions for time, place. Also, be sure to check with the church, Priest, hall, etc., to find out if they have any rules regarding filming of weddings.
Once these questions have been answered to your complete satisfaction you'll be well on your way to hiring the best possible professional to film the big day.
If you decide that a Videographer is simply not within your wedding budget you can still take some action to ensure that you get an acceptable "home video" of your Wedding. Everybody and their Uncle has a home video camera nowadays (we've all had to suffer through their personal movies at one time or another). As you know, having a camera is not enough to make a movie. If that was the case Hollywood would be out of business by now. Here are some tips to help your Uncle Jim or your Cousin Sally to film a video that will bring you tears of joy instead of making you cringe every time your throw it in the VCR:
1. Try to use a Digital or Hi-8 camera. The quality will be drastically improved when transferring or copying for friends and family.
2. Make sure they have a Tripod. This will reduce unwanted motion and save you and your friends from being queasy when you watch the finished product on TV.
3. Do not "zoom" in or out while filming. Do all "zooming" while the camera is NOT recording. If they want to switch from a wide shot to a close up, stop the camera from filming between transitions. All the professionals do this.
4. Be sure to scope out the best possible spot for the camera ahead of time. It should be in a spot that is unobtrusive but can also capture the bride's walk down the isle and ceremony without having to move the tripod & camera.
5. Practice, practice, practice. Be sure to film some "practice" runs before the actual ceremony. This will ensure that the person doing the filming will be ready to capture things in the heat of the moment without any worries or mistakes.
Again, I cannot recommend enough that the best way to capture your wedding on Video is to hire a professional. That being said, the tips above should give you a quality home video that you and yours will enjoy again and again. Professionally shot or captured by a reliable friend or relative, a Wedding Video will bring back all the feelings and wonder that you were too busy to remember on the special day itself!
Everything is perfect: Your family and friends are seated comfortably, the flowers look divine, the music is being played in key, and you know the caterers are busy making sure the food for the reception afterwards is scrumptious. The only thing left to do now is walk down the isle and wed the person of your dreams. Off you go!
Nightmare of all nightmares! You are sitting at the head table and the only reason you know you actually got married is because there is a gold band on your finger! You were so nervous and excited all at once that your mind is drawing a complete blank. All the effort, the planning, the endless sacrifices all year long and you don't have a single recollection of how things went. Yikes.
There is insurance against this all-to-common wedding amnesia: A wedding video! It will bring you, your family and friends, countless evenings of enjoyment and recollection simply at the flick of your remote control. The cost will be nominal and a professional video will bring you countless years of enjoyment.
The best person to entrust with capturing your special day is a professional Wedding-Videographer. The old saying that "A hammer does not a carpenter make" is good to remember when hiring a professional to film your wedding. The best person to ask for advice on this is your Wedding Planner. They will have a Videographer that they trust enough to put their name to so that you will have one less thing to worry about. It's It is after all, their job. If you are planning your own wedding, here are ten questions you should ask to ensure that you pick the best Videographer for the big day:
1. Video cameras are not all the same. Hi8 or DV provide a higher quality than the standard camcorder. Some of the best digital units include the Panasonic 100b and the Canon XL2.
2. 3-chip CCD cameras will have the best Digital quality. You don't need to know what it means other than "the best possible chipset for the best possible image."
3. Ask to view a "wedding video sample" tape. This will give you an idea of what the quality will be like when you get yours.
4. Do they use wireless microphones? If they do, great, if they don't ask them to get one.
5. Is the Videographer unobtrusive? They should be.
6. What do they dress while filming? Make sure they dress neat and tidy. Blue jeans are NOT acceptable wedding-wear.
7. What back up equipment do they have? It should be comparable in quality to the original.
8. Price?? Most Videographers have several packages. Choose the one that fits within your budget and captures what you desire.
9. Do they use 1 camera or 2?. If 2 cameras is the second operator an extra charge?
10. Bookings? Make sure you give them specific instructions for time, place. Also, be sure to check with the church, Priest, hall, etc., to find out if they have any rules regarding filming of weddings.
Once these questions have been answered to your complete satisfaction you'll be well on your way to hiring the best possible professional to film the big day.
If you decide that a Videographer is simply not within your wedding budget you can still take some action to ensure that you get an acceptable "home video" of your Wedding. Everybody and their Uncle has a home video camera nowadays (we've all had to suffer through their personal movies at one time or another). As you know, having a camera is not enough to make a movie. If that was the case Hollywood would be out of business by now. Here are some tips to help your Uncle Jim or your Cousin Sally to film a video that will bring you tears of joy instead of making you cringe every time your throw it in the VCR:
1. Try to use a Digital or Hi-8 camera. The quality will be drastically improved when transferring or copying for friends and family.
2. Make sure they have a Tripod. This will reduce unwanted motion and save you and your friends from being queasy when you watch the finished product on TV.
3. Do not "zoom" in or out while filming. Do all "zooming" while the camera is NOT recording. If they want to switch from a wide shot to a close up, stop the camera from filming between transitions. All the professionals do this.
4. Be sure to scope out the best possible spot for the camera ahead of time. It should be in a spot that is unobtrusive but can also capture the bride's walk down the isle and ceremony without having to move the tripod & camera.
5. Practice, practice, practice. Be sure to film some "practice" runs before the actual ceremony. This will ensure that the person doing the filming will be ready to capture things in the heat of the moment without any worries or mistakes.
Again, I cannot recommend enough that the best way to capture your wedding on Video is to hire a professional. That being said, the tips above should give you a quality home video that you and yours will enjoy again and again. Professionally shot or captured by a reliable friend or relative, a Wedding Video will bring back all the feelings and wonder that you were too busy to remember on the special day itself!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
The 1-2-3's of Wedding DVD's
The 1-2-3's of Wedding DVD's
Just when you thought selecting a wedding video couldn’t get any more complicated, it has. DVD, with its incredible features, can be the greatest thing to happen to your wedding video, if done right. It can also be one of the most complicated to understand. Read on and learn what you need to look for when shopping for a wedding video with DVD.
More Isn’t Always Better
Most, if not all, videographers will provide a demo tape. This, after all, is one of the best ways for you to view a prospective studio’s work. But be sure to view a full-length DVD. This is important when shopping around for a DVD wedding video because unlike a simple VHS tape a DVD has no set time limit. A DVD’s length is determined by how much the images are compressed during production. Depending on the quality of the production equipment and how much the video is compressed, the visual quality of the end product can be affected. Therefore, that 20-minute demo might look great, but will your full-length version look as good? Do yourself the favor and ask to view a full-length DVD. After all, you wouldn’t buy a car you saw in a commercial before seeing the real thing, would you?
If you want your DVD to be longer yet have excellent quality, be sure to ask your potential studio ahead of time if they use what is called “Dolby AC-3 Audio.” If the studio doesn’t know what this means, find another studio. Simply put, this audio format takes up about 1/8th the space of another format that is typically used, called PCM Audio. While using AC-3 Audio costs more, it will enable the video to not only be longer, but have better picture quality as well. However, if you’re interested in a video that is shorter than one hour, this won’t be as important.
In-house Versus Out-house
It is more desirable to have the DVD completely done in-house by the actual wedding studio as opposed to an outside agency. This allows for better control of quality. When I create a DVD I use different compression levels for different parts of the video to optimize the visual quality. For instance, I compress the ceremony smaller than the reception. Why? The ceremony is comprised primarily of people standing or sitting, therefore it can be compressed more without any noticeable loss of picture quality. On the other hand, the reception contains video of an action-filled room full of people dancing and lights flashing. If I compressed the reception at the same level as the ceremony, the ceremony would look fine, but the image quality of the reception would deteriorate. An outside company would be more inclined to have the entire video compressed at the same level.
Technology Speaking
Mass duplicated DVDs, such as those you buy at Blockbuster, are created with a different process then the one your wedding video will be done in and may not be compatible with some DVD players that are more than two years old. Fortunately, DVD players today cost little more than a good VCR. Also remember that the quality of your wedding DVD will only be as good as the equipment used to tape it. There is no magical cure for poor camera quality.
Know What You Want
One of the benefits of a DVD video over a typical VHS is that you can have chapter points that allow the viewer to instantly go to various points of the video, similar to changing tracks on a music CD. You can go from your vows to the first dance in just seconds. This will eliminate the need to pay extra for a shortened “coffee table” version of your video. It’s also another reason why you should view a full-length DVD rather than a 20-minute demo. This feature will allow you to get a good idea of the length and quality without having to sit through an entire two-hour production. Since these chapter points must be programmed into the DVD during production, don’t assume that your wedding DVD will have them. Be sure to ask about this ahead of time if you want this feature.
While the technicalities of what goes into a DVD may make any soon-to-be bride or groom’s head spin, the quality and length of your video depends largely on everything mentioned above. By doing simple things like viewing a full-length wedding DVD and asking a few questions before you sign into a contract, you can be sure that you won’t be welcomed by any unpleasant surprises.
Just when you thought selecting a wedding video couldn’t get any more complicated, it has. DVD, with its incredible features, can be the greatest thing to happen to your wedding video, if done right. It can also be one of the most complicated to understand. Read on and learn what you need to look for when shopping for a wedding video with DVD.
More Isn’t Always Better
Most, if not all, videographers will provide a demo tape. This, after all, is one of the best ways for you to view a prospective studio’s work. But be sure to view a full-length DVD. This is important when shopping around for a DVD wedding video because unlike a simple VHS tape a DVD has no set time limit. A DVD’s length is determined by how much the images are compressed during production. Depending on the quality of the production equipment and how much the video is compressed, the visual quality of the end product can be affected. Therefore, that 20-minute demo might look great, but will your full-length version look as good? Do yourself the favor and ask to view a full-length DVD. After all, you wouldn’t buy a car you saw in a commercial before seeing the real thing, would you?
If you want your DVD to be longer yet have excellent quality, be sure to ask your potential studio ahead of time if they use what is called “Dolby AC-3 Audio.” If the studio doesn’t know what this means, find another studio. Simply put, this audio format takes up about 1/8th the space of another format that is typically used, called PCM Audio. While using AC-3 Audio costs more, it will enable the video to not only be longer, but have better picture quality as well. However, if you’re interested in a video that is shorter than one hour, this won’t be as important.
In-house Versus Out-house
It is more desirable to have the DVD completely done in-house by the actual wedding studio as opposed to an outside agency. This allows for better control of quality. When I create a DVD I use different compression levels for different parts of the video to optimize the visual quality. For instance, I compress the ceremony smaller than the reception. Why? The ceremony is comprised primarily of people standing or sitting, therefore it can be compressed more without any noticeable loss of picture quality. On the other hand, the reception contains video of an action-filled room full of people dancing and lights flashing. If I compressed the reception at the same level as the ceremony, the ceremony would look fine, but the image quality of the reception would deteriorate. An outside company would be more inclined to have the entire video compressed at the same level.
Technology Speaking
Mass duplicated DVDs, such as those you buy at Blockbuster, are created with a different process then the one your wedding video will be done in and may not be compatible with some DVD players that are more than two years old. Fortunately, DVD players today cost little more than a good VCR. Also remember that the quality of your wedding DVD will only be as good as the equipment used to tape it. There is no magical cure for poor camera quality.
Know What You Want
One of the benefits of a DVD video over a typical VHS is that you can have chapter points that allow the viewer to instantly go to various points of the video, similar to changing tracks on a music CD. You can go from your vows to the first dance in just seconds. This will eliminate the need to pay extra for a shortened “coffee table” version of your video. It’s also another reason why you should view a full-length DVD rather than a 20-minute demo. This feature will allow you to get a good idea of the length and quality without having to sit through an entire two-hour production. Since these chapter points must be programmed into the DVD during production, don’t assume that your wedding DVD will have them. Be sure to ask about this ahead of time if you want this feature.
While the technicalities of what goes into a DVD may make any soon-to-be bride or groom’s head spin, the quality and length of your video depends largely on everything mentioned above. By doing simple things like viewing a full-length wedding DVD and asking a few questions before you sign into a contract, you can be sure that you won’t be welcomed by any unpleasant surprises.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
10 Wedding Day Mistakes NOT to make!
10 things you DONT want to do wedding day!
10. Don't Rock the Cash Bar - When it comes to alcohol at your reception, what you serve is entirely up to you. Whether you choose to serve a full bar, limited cocktails, Beer and Wine, or no alcohol at all will be based on various factors including budget. The one option that is not recommended is a Cash Bar. Your guests should be gracious enough to accept what is being offered to them. If however a guest feels the need for a drink selection that is not offered, chances are that he or she will be resourceful enough to find it.
Also, request that bartenders not put out tip jars. If you are hosting the bar, tell your catering contact that you are happy to pay gratuity to the bartender(s) but that you do not want your guests to feel obligated to tip.
9. Go flat! A huge number of brides give feedback that they wish they had worn flats, having kicked off their heels during the reception. As a bride you can expect to be standing for 8-12 hours on your wedding day. Be sure to break in your shoes well in advance. Even when wearing flats, unexpected blisters can form after a few hours on your feet.
8. Have a little faith. D.J.'s are perhaps the wedding vendor most micromanaged by couples. Too many song requests may actually impede the flow of your party. You hire your D.J. to judge when to play what music. You wouldn't instruct your Caterer step by step on how to prepare food, or your Photographer on what angles and lenses to use. Limit your D.J. request list to a few favorites and a do-not-play list of only the songs you cannot stand. Do not get carried away and have some trust.
7. Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize. What really matters most to you, the photographer, the music and dancing, the food and wine, the decorations, or being able to accommodate a large guest list? Put your money towards what you care about. You will have regrets if you skimp on what really counts. When you, the Bride and Groom are not footing the bill yourselves however, you may have to forfeit some financial decision-making. If this is the case you will need to compromise on certain priorities or if you really want that pricey photographer offer to pay for one yourself.
6. Bibbity Bobbity Boo. Wedding Dress shops are notorious for having your dress shipped in at the last minute. Think about it, if you owned a Wedding Dress Boutique you wouldn't want every brides dress held at your shop for nine+ months before their weddings. Schedule your first fitting well before your wedding. Your final dress fitting should be no less than 1 week prior to your wedding so that alterations can still be made.
Tuxedo rentals for all attendants must be tried on, that includes Dad. Whether the Tailor seemed to take precise measurements or not, too many men still show up at weddings with high waters or baggy tuxes.
5. Don't hit the road, Jack. Your wedding day is one of the biggest, most important days of your life. You will be exhausted and a bit disorderly the following day. Going away is the last thing you will want to worry about. Wait at least a couple of days before venturing on your honeymoon. Your wits will thank you.
4. Last night of single life. DO NOT hold your Bachelor or Bachelorette party the night before your wedding! This may seem like a no-brainer but many brides and grooms still practice the archaic ritual of drinking all night on that fatal evening. It is simply not worth it, as the Bride/Groom and your attendants will no doubt feel tired, look tired, have a hangover, or worse be sick walking down the aisle. If necessary, request that any out of town attendants arrive a day earlier to help you to prepare and celebrate a different night.
3. No Guidance. With no Director there are too many details left to too many people at your ceremony. Having a Wedding Coordinator allows for one person to coordinate your wedding party processional, music, minister, seating guests and to resolve any unexpected last minute complications. A Coordinator will ease the stress level of everyone, including you, tremendously on your wedding day. So if your location does not include a Wedding Day Coordinator who also directs your rehearsal, hire your own. A Wedding Coordinator may be much more affordable than you think.
2. Stretching yourself too thin. As the bride you will make everyone around you crazy by waiting until the last minute in planning and finalizing details. If you have a hard time planning and prioritizing on your own then get help. You don't want to be remembered as “one of those brides” that put everything off and then expected her friends and family to pick up the pieces, do you?
Do not commit yourself to social events the day before your wedding. This day is meant for you to wrap up loose ends, beautify yourself, attend your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner in many cases, and most importantly get some amount of rest for the day ahead. You are going to need it!
1. High demands. Try to keep in mind that although your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen may offer you extra help, these friends can become taken advantage of. The only "official obligations" of wedding party members are emotional support, the financial expense of wedding attire and travel, participation in the rehearsal and the obvious role on your wedding day. In the case of the MOH or BM, reception toasts are traditional as well. Other help that these individuals may offer should not be viewed as duties, but rather as acts of kindness including: setting up/tearing down, transporting ceremony goods, throwing a bridal shower or other party, distributing gratuities, and any other help that is offered.
Remember to be thoughtful towards your attendants. Bridesmaids may not be comfortable in 4 inch heels, purchasing new jewelry or paying to have their hair or makeup professionally styled. Do not forget to personally thank any bridal party members for taking part in your wedding, as well as family members who gave you assistance. A small thank you gift is always appreciated.
10. Don't Rock the Cash Bar - When it comes to alcohol at your reception, what you serve is entirely up to you. Whether you choose to serve a full bar, limited cocktails, Beer and Wine, or no alcohol at all will be based on various factors including budget. The one option that is not recommended is a Cash Bar. Your guests should be gracious enough to accept what is being offered to them. If however a guest feels the need for a drink selection that is not offered, chances are that he or she will be resourceful enough to find it.
Also, request that bartenders not put out tip jars. If you are hosting the bar, tell your catering contact that you are happy to pay gratuity to the bartender(s) but that you do not want your guests to feel obligated to tip.
9. Go flat! A huge number of brides give feedback that they wish they had worn flats, having kicked off their heels during the reception. As a bride you can expect to be standing for 8-12 hours on your wedding day. Be sure to break in your shoes well in advance. Even when wearing flats, unexpected blisters can form after a few hours on your feet.
8. Have a little faith. D.J.'s are perhaps the wedding vendor most micromanaged by couples. Too many song requests may actually impede the flow of your party. You hire your D.J. to judge when to play what music. You wouldn't instruct your Caterer step by step on how to prepare food, or your Photographer on what angles and lenses to use. Limit your D.J. request list to a few favorites and a do-not-play list of only the songs you cannot stand. Do not get carried away and have some trust.
7. Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize. What really matters most to you, the photographer, the music and dancing, the food and wine, the decorations, or being able to accommodate a large guest list? Put your money towards what you care about. You will have regrets if you skimp on what really counts. When you, the Bride and Groom are not footing the bill yourselves however, you may have to forfeit some financial decision-making. If this is the case you will need to compromise on certain priorities or if you really want that pricey photographer offer to pay for one yourself.
6. Bibbity Bobbity Boo. Wedding Dress shops are notorious for having your dress shipped in at the last minute. Think about it, if you owned a Wedding Dress Boutique you wouldn't want every brides dress held at your shop for nine+ months before their weddings. Schedule your first fitting well before your wedding. Your final dress fitting should be no less than 1 week prior to your wedding so that alterations can still be made.
Tuxedo rentals for all attendants must be tried on, that includes Dad. Whether the Tailor seemed to take precise measurements or not, too many men still show up at weddings with high waters or baggy tuxes.
5. Don't hit the road, Jack. Your wedding day is one of the biggest, most important days of your life. You will be exhausted and a bit disorderly the following day. Going away is the last thing you will want to worry about. Wait at least a couple of days before venturing on your honeymoon. Your wits will thank you.
4. Last night of single life. DO NOT hold your Bachelor or Bachelorette party the night before your wedding! This may seem like a no-brainer but many brides and grooms still practice the archaic ritual of drinking all night on that fatal evening. It is simply not worth it, as the Bride/Groom and your attendants will no doubt feel tired, look tired, have a hangover, or worse be sick walking down the aisle. If necessary, request that any out of town attendants arrive a day earlier to help you to prepare and celebrate a different night.
3. No Guidance. With no Director there are too many details left to too many people at your ceremony. Having a Wedding Coordinator allows for one person to coordinate your wedding party processional, music, minister, seating guests and to resolve any unexpected last minute complications. A Coordinator will ease the stress level of everyone, including you, tremendously on your wedding day. So if your location does not include a Wedding Day Coordinator who also directs your rehearsal, hire your own. A Wedding Coordinator may be much more affordable than you think.
2. Stretching yourself too thin. As the bride you will make everyone around you crazy by waiting until the last minute in planning and finalizing details. If you have a hard time planning and prioritizing on your own then get help. You don't want to be remembered as “one of those brides” that put everything off and then expected her friends and family to pick up the pieces, do you?
Do not commit yourself to social events the day before your wedding. This day is meant for you to wrap up loose ends, beautify yourself, attend your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner in many cases, and most importantly get some amount of rest for the day ahead. You are going to need it!
1. High demands. Try to keep in mind that although your Bridesmaids and Groomsmen may offer you extra help, these friends can become taken advantage of. The only "official obligations" of wedding party members are emotional support, the financial expense of wedding attire and travel, participation in the rehearsal and the obvious role on your wedding day. In the case of the MOH or BM, reception toasts are traditional as well. Other help that these individuals may offer should not be viewed as duties, but rather as acts of kindness including: setting up/tearing down, transporting ceremony goods, throwing a bridal shower or other party, distributing gratuities, and any other help that is offered.
Remember to be thoughtful towards your attendants. Bridesmaids may not be comfortable in 4 inch heels, purchasing new jewelry or paying to have their hair or makeup professionally styled. Do not forget to personally thank any bridal party members for taking part in your wedding, as well as family members who gave you assistance. A small thank you gift is always appreciated.
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