1. Spreadsheets are your friends. Don't use paper for any of your planning. There are books out there that say otherwise, but for the many times you will update your budget or task list, digital is always better.
2. Delegate a go-to person for the big day. Tell your whole wedding party that if any problems or questions come up they should speak to that person. This can be someone from your bridal party, a family member or friend. Just pick someone that is responsible and makes good decisions.
3. Enlist a photo wrangler. Give this person a list of the pictures you want ahead of time. This person’s job is to round up all the family or friends that are to be in each picture. If you have a lot of family, you can even choose someone from each side of the family to round up that particular group. If you can, try not to choose someone from your bridal party to do this job. Pick someone that knows the family, has a loud voice, and is not afraid to boss people around!
4. Don't put your wedding party into debt. Give your bridesmaids options when it comes to getting their hair and makeup done. Try alternatives like at-home manicures and pedicures the night before, or styling each other’s hair the morning of. This can be a fun girls-only event and can actually be more relaxing then sitting at a hairdresser’s for hours in the early a.m.
5. Delegate, delegate, delegate. Every past bride has said the same word over and over. However, beware of one crucial thing: do not delegate to the same three people, or just to members of your bridal party. Try to give only one or two tasks to each person and assume that if you give him or her more, they may forget something. Your bridal party will be busy too, so try to delegate to other close friends, cousins or aunts.
6. Give your girls a schedule. At the rehearsal dinner, give each wedding party member a basic outline or schedule for the next day. This helps everyone to feel like they are in the loop for the day of and helps the day run smoothly.
7. Bring snacks. For some reason, everyone seems to be starving after walking down the aisle. This snack helps stave off the hunger pains and makes for happy photoshoots
8. Collaborate on speeches. Ask your bridesmaids and groomsmen (not including the best man and maid of honour) to organize a few things for their speech that they want to say together as a group instead of individually. This will keep the speeches to a minimum. It also helps everyone get to know each other.
9. Have appetizers before dinner starts. Usually your pictures go much longer than you expected. If your guests have been waiting for an hour with no food, they will notice your absence. If they have been offered delicious appetizers and drinks, they probably won’t even notice you’re late.
10. Reuse. To keep your costs down, use the same flowers and decor at both your ceremony location and reception hall. This not only helps your budget, it also keeps the same vibe and theme running through your whole day.
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Posted by Heather, Simply U Events on February 8, 2010 at 3:52 p.m.
Number 3 is so vital. As a past bride myself (6 months ago) and a wedding coordinator, I hired an experienced photographer, however when it start to drizzle he got flustered and unorganized. He didn't ask for a photo list or person to round up family/wedding party prior, and I regret assuming he would for sure be able to handle it. A list of which photos you want captured and a person to keep things organized is the best way to go so your photographer doesn't forget anyone. You will love your photos more knowing you got all the ones you wanted.
Posted by Anonymous on July 13, 2011 at 5:27 p.m.
#2 is something I would NEVER do. Your family and friends are there to enjoy the day NOT to work. Hire a day-of planner if you want to have a painless and stress free wedding day!
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