Your wedding day should be one of the most memorable and perfect in your life. So, my suggestion is to look on it as the day you marry the love of your life and embark on the important first steps as you begin your marriage. So, what could possibly go wrong?
Naturally, even when you think you’ve covered all your bases, something may not quite go according to plan. It’s how you respond to these things, however, that will determine your memories of your special day.
Appoint a team of one or more
I would suggest that the more people you involve in the decision making process, the more confusing it may become for you. It is, however, important to have people around you who support you in the lead up to and on your big day. It may be a girlfriend, your Mum or another relative. As long as you have someone, or several trusted people, who are ready to listen, offer guidance and help if you need it, you’ll have an ally who has your best interests at heart.
Planning
Key to the success of any event is careful planning. I recommend you compile a schedule for the day of your wedding which includes details for each component, the timing for each and contact details for whoever is involved. If you don’t feel you have sufficient time available or your strengths don’t lie in this area, appoint someone else who will be able to assist. It could mean hiring an event planner who will listen to your wishes, suggest options and compile a list of all the things you would like to include. They will also make contact with suppliers on your behalf, visit them with you so they can support your vision, confirm all the arrangements and then be there on your wedding day to oversee everything.
Confirm all your arrangements
Make sure you have signed contracts with all your suppliers and either you or your event planner should confirm all arrangements, in writing, with each of them in the weeks leading up to your wedding day. This will allow you to make alternative plans if, for some reason, someone lets you down. Make sure the cancellation policy is in writing for each of your suppliers. This will allow you to know their refund policy if you decide not to go ahead with your original plans.
Relax
Don’t forget to relax in the days leading up to your wedding. All your loose ends should be well and truly tied by then and it’s only the final things like a mani/pedi, spray tan, packing for your honeymoon etc. that need to be done. This might be a good time to book a massage too!
Rely on your celebrant
As your celebrant, I will keep in touch with you at regular intervals so that you build a strong sense of trust with me. You can rely on me to respond quickly to your enquiries, to give you a timetable as to when certain things will happen in the lead up to your wedding (e.g. arrangements for a follow up meeting, sending through your draft ceremony, booking your rehearsal etc.) so that there are no last minute surprises. This is all designed to keep things flowing easily without a last minute rush to write your vows or choose your favourite songs.
On your wedding day, I’ll arrive early so I can set up without rushing things, chat to other suppliers e.g. your photographer, event planner, musician etc. and calm any nerves on the part of the groom.
I will have stepped you through all the little details for your ceremony so you’ll know the plan from the moment you arrive right through to walking back down the aisle with your partner. If you forget something, I’ll discreetly mention anything you need to know during the ceremony so that it’s seamless and you feel at ease.
You and your partner are my #1 priority at your wedding. You will have my 100% focus.
If something does happen which is unplanned, it’s important to remember that, in most cases, family and friends won’t be aware of it. I’m practised at thinking on my feet so, if people notice something out of the ordinary (I once had one of the groomsmen faint and, shortly after, one of the bridesmaids faint at the same ceremony!), I’ll think of a way to give it the least impact on the ceremony.
If it involves one or more children in the bridal party, for instance, I find people are very forgiving and realise that children can get tired and overwhelmed when they’re out of their comfort zone. Depending on the situation, I may even handle things with a bit of lighthearted relief and we’ll then move on. Often the unexpected things turn into the best moments as they’re likely to be very natural and reflect those involved.
As the saying goes, “A wedding is a party, not a performance. If, at the end of the day, you are married to the one you love, then everything went perfectly.”
035 – 30/11/2016
© Lindy Cooke Celebrant