Sunday, February 26, 2012

10 THINGS BRIDES FORGET WHEN PLANNING THE BIG DAY

1. Bring your Legal Documents
Signing the marriage certificate is what finalizes everything. Don't forget to bring it with you. That is the whole reason for the wedding and party. Most people are so excited for the ceremony that they forget the paperwork that goes with it.


2. Making Wedding Night Plans
It's very unlikely that you are flying out for your honeymoon the night of your wedding. Make sure to book a hotel room near the venue for you to go back to. 


3. Pack an Overnight Bag
Remember that you won't be sleeping in your dress although you probably never want to take it off. Make sure to pack an overnight bag including lingerie, clothes for the next day, toiletries, etc. Have a bridesmaid or close friend drop the bag off at your hotel room before the ceremony so that you don't have to tote it around with you.


4. Taking Things Home After the Reception
You'll probably received a ton of gifts, but it's your big night. Who wants to carry everything home on the night of their wedding? Make sure to designate a few trusty people to gather up everything after you leave including gifts, the cake topper, guest book, any decorations that should be kept, leftover food and drinks, etc. It's helpful to give your friends a list so they don't forget anything.


5. Buying Gifts for Others
Make sure to buy gifts for everyone involved in the wedding. Most brides buy gifts for the bridesmaids. Grooms buy gifts for the groomsmen. Together you should buy gifts for everyone else involved including parents. It's also nice to buy each other a small gift.


6. Deciding Where Things Go
You've probably spent hours on a seating chart, but where is everything else going. Make sure to have places for things like the guest book, place cards, escorts, menus, programs, etc.


7. Decorating Everywhere
We all know that each bride thinks about every detail of the reception area, but what about areas like the bar? You've spent so much time focusing on the main room. Make sure not to forget about the areas around the reception hall. Add small decorations to the bar, bathroom, entrance, etc.


8. Choosing How to Receive Gifts
I recommend a gift table. It is easy to find, looks pretty, and no gifts end up out of place. You can also have a bag that matches the decorations. Have a bridesmaid or groomsmen stand by your side holding the bag at the beginning and end of the evening. Have a friend go around with you when you visit each table as well.


9. Day After Plans
If you are leaving straight for your honeymoon, then make sure you have you luggage with you and your passport if you need it. Also arrange for car service to pick you up. If you are heading home make sure you have a way to get there. If a limo is taking you to the wedding and hotel then ask the hotel if you can park your car there the day before. Otherwise you are stranded at the hotel.


10. Confirming All Plans
A week before the wedding make sure you confirm with every single vendor, location, rental, transportation, etc. Many places will call you first so make sure you have an itinerary so that you can confirm all times, dates, and locations. Make sure to send a day itinerary to all of the wedding party including the times for getting ready and photography. If anyone in the party is known for being late, make their itinerary a half hour early.



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