Planning your wedding can be a bit overwhelming. There are all the big things that will get most of your attention, like the food, drinks, music and decorations. There's the small stuff too, but that makes the difference, like the dessert table, the thank you notes, and the amenities to refresh yourself in the bathrooms. But even further than this are the tiny details, those that often go unseen, that make your life easier and happier on the big day.
If you hire a wedding planner, they'll take care of most of the details for your big day, but there are some things that'll depend on only you and your partner. For this, we've compiled this list so that you don't accidentally skip some of the most important things to do before and during the wedding.
Be Included in the Guest Count
It's funny, but when vendors ask couples how many people the wedding will be for, they often forget to include themselves. It's the smallest and most obvious detail, but it happens a lot!
It may not be too serious, since the suppliers usually take their precautions, but it's better that from the beginning they have the correct number of guests, including yourselves.
Have a Nice Getting Ready Outfit
You're probably thinking about having the photography crew you hired capture some shots while you and your partner get ready for the big event. And as a bride, before your beautiful dress comes hair and makeup prep. Because of this, make sure you plan what you'll be wearing in these photos too!
It doesn't have to be anything too fancy, but do think of something nice because that moment will be captured forever.
Take Photos with Specific Guests
Photographers often focus on the family and the wedding party, but what about all the other guests? Sadly, days after the celebration, some couples find they don't even have a single photo with some of the attendees.
If possible, you can request your photographer to get photos of you with all of your guests. Also, you can take the time to visit each of your guests' tables and get some photos there.
Find Out When Sunset is
Sunsets are always beautiful, especially if you're getting married outdoors or somewhere where the sky becomes a canvas of vivid colors.
Make sure you find out when sunset is so you can seize the moment and take photos in that amazing light. Or, just enjoy the stunning view with your guests.
Have a Seamstress on Hand
Accidents at weddings happen, so the best thing you can do is have a sewing kit on hand and know someone who can touch up your dress if necessary.
When it comes to the bride, it's always best to err on the side of caution and prepare a good emergency kit for any last-minute needs.
Eat on the Wedding Day
Couples can get so caught up in preparing for their big day that they forget to eat. Really, it's pretty common, but of course it's not right, and at its worst means someone could possibly faint or feel lethargic from lack of food.
A simple solution is to ask your maid of honor to make sure you eat.
Also, if you take any medication routinely, it's important to remember that even on your wedding day. So along with the reminder to eat comes the reminder to take your meds or vitamins!
Consider Older Guests
Don't forget to think about older or less mobile guests when planning your wedding. That is, make sure that there are always seats available for them, that the bathrooms are easily accessible, and that there's a space a little further away at the party in case they want to be away from the center of the hectic music and dancing.
Prepare a Few Words of Thanks
Vows are not forgotten by any couple, but what about words of thanks for the guests? This often goes unnoticed in wedding planning, but it really is a nice touch to prepare something to share with your loved ones.
Think About Return Transportation for Guests
Whether you have a destination wedding or a local celebration, it's a good idea to think about return transportation for your guests. You don't want them driving around if they've had something to drink, so it's best to check with your wedding venue to see if they offer any transportation services to get them home safe and sound— perhaps a taxi service that's available late at night or something similar.
Of course, if Uber or a similar company works where you're getting married, this will be practically solved. But, if this isn't the case, it's good to take it into consideration. Your guests will thank you for the great detail of worrying about their return home.
Don't Forget Missing Payments to Suppliers
Most wedding vendors handle all payments in advance, but there are others that collect your last payment a few days after the event. Keep this on your radar so that it doesn't take you by surprise!
If you want, you could ask someone you trust to take care of the remaining payments after the wedding, so you can dedicate yourself fully to enjoying your honeymoon.
Inquire About Meals for Staff
This often goes pretty unnoticed, but your wedding vendors and staff also have to eat at some point.
Ask your wedding venue what they offer for supplier meals. It's a good gesture if you previously check with your suppliers if they have any restrictions or are allergic to any food.
Have a Plan for Guests who Want to Keep the Party Going
If your wedding's planned to end early in the evening, surely there'll be guests who want to keep the fun going. Whether that includes you, it's a good idea to find out about any bars and clubs open nearby for a little afterparty.
Take the Time to Admire the Wedding
Finally, one of the best tips we can give you is to take some time to admire your wedding.
Think of it this way: you'll never have all these people in one place again. Friends from childhood with friends from your adult life, your colleagues, and your family. Everyone celebrating your love, in the same place and at the same time. The best thing you and your partner can do is take some time to take in your beautiful day from afar and the fantastic moment you're living in with the people you love the most.
Time will pass very quickly on your wedding day, so make sure you enjoy it to the fullest and understand that it's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
There you go, with all these details you're ready for your big day!
If you're thinking of having a destination wedding in paradise, at Velas Resorts we have exclusive wedding venues on the best beaches in Mexico. We're specialists in luxury weddings and can make any wish you have for the big day come true!
Contact us and follow us on our social media to find more inspiration for the wedding of your dreams.