Fool Proof Plan
Track those gifts and thank you notes. It’s so important to have a fool-proof system to record gifts received and thank you notes sent. With a flood of gifts coming in, and so many notes to write, if you rely solely on memory you’ll become quickly overwhelmed. Thoughts of “did we send Aunt Velma a thank you note yet?” can haunt you.
Start at the beginning.
Make sure to choose the place of the ceremony BEFORE you choose your colors. You would think that nothing could clash with cirilian blue, but trust me you will find the walls of a banquet hall that will.
Make sure you are on the same page.
Before you begin the registry process have a heart to heart with your fiancé. Discuss your tastes, style, priorities, and your vision of your future home. Also be sure to take into account what items you already have as a couple. Your selections will be easier and more focused when you have a game plan and you are working towards common goals!
Click here to check out our bridal registry links!
Written by: Michele Holland
#1 – Invest the time
Take the time to experiment, and really try things out before deciding on your overall wedding décor, table linens, etc. Some colors, fabrics and textures look completely different in different lighting, so how it looks in the bright fluorescent lights of the showroom is NOT how it will look in your dim, candlelit reception room.
#2 – Come prepared
When you meet with your wedding designer and/or linens provider, it’s most helpful and efficient if you come armed with as much detail as possible about your wedding, such as photos of your wedding dress and bridesmaids’ attire, any cake or floral information you have and so on. Also, if you have a specific color in mind, bring in an actual sample – verbal descriptions just don’t work!
#3 – Handle strong color with care
If you love a bright, vivid color but are concerned about it being “too much,” consider using it as an accent color in the room instead, such as in the napkins and chair ties. If it’s a small wedding, bright fuchsia table linens may work, but a grand ballroom filled with 40 hot pink tables may be a bit overwhelming.
#4 – Make your own unique color
By experimenting with different sheers placed over various colored fabrics, you may find your own unique combination that gives you the look you want. Ideally, do this in the same lighting that your reception will be in for an accurate vision!
Head for the tropics.
Floating orchids, water lilies, or roses in small crystal bowls creates a tropical and romantic atmosphere. Use the same flowers in the bouquets and large centerpieces.
Travel plans.
When working with a travel agent, confirm all honeymoon arrangements a month prior to your wedding, and again, one-week ahead. Get an itinerary in writing and have a back-up plan in case of inclement weather.
Position of honor (and responsibility).
Your maid or matron of honor and best man are in positions of esteem, but don’t assume that they know what is expected of their roles. Plan to have tactful conversations about the duties you expect them to perform and make it fun and meaningful. Find articles that cover this information rather than verbal instructions.
Personalize the entertainment
Give some script ideas to the band leader. Note funny and meaningful facts about your courtship and members of family or close friends – and ask for the band to squeeze these comments in between songs.
Just Right
Flower girls and ring bearers should be between four and eight years of age. While a two-year old may be really cute, this tiny person is not predictable. Go for adorable, sentimental, and age appropriate.
What’s for dinner?
Generally, the time of day indicates to guests if they will be eating a meal. If you’ve decided not to serve a full meal at your reception, invite people for tea, 3-5 p.m.; cocktails, 5-7 p.m.; or dessert, 9 p.m. to midnight. And just to be clear, include this information on your invitations: “Please join us for tea [or cocktails, or champagne and cake, or light refreshments] following the ceremony.”
Photo by Artist Group