George Boyle
Planning a wedding is a detailed process, and it's easy to forget the little things. From the marriage license to the seating plan, there are many small but important details to consider. Budgeting is a key concern, with hidden fees and extra costs for meals and ice often overlooked. DIY touches can help to save money, and it's a good idea to prepare an emergency kit for any mishaps. From the bridal party's accessories to the gifts for your parents, there are lots of little things that need to be organised.
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What You'll Learn
Invitations, RSVPs, and a guest list
When it comes to wedding invitations, you want to find a style that reflects your personality and that of your partner. You can go for a creative, non-traditional design or stick to a more classic look. The invitations should also match the vibe of the wedding. For instance, if you're planning a holiday-themed winter wedding, you can incorporate that into the design.
There are several other factors to consider when ordering invitations. Order a few extra in case of mistakes, and make sure they will arrive on time. It's also important to set up a system to record RSVP replies and confirm all addresses and spellings. If you're including a photo with your invitation, you'll need to allow enough time for that photo to be taken.
RSVPs can be done via paper or online. Many couples are opting for digital RSVPs or a combination of print and digital. This is a cost-effective and convenient option, but it's worth noting that older guests may prefer a physical card. If you go for online RSVPs, you can use a free wedding website to create a personalised URL for guests to RSVP to. This can also be included on a printed RSVP card.
When it comes to your guest list, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, decide whether you want to invite children or if you'd prefer an adults-only event. If the latter, be sure to state this on your invitation. You should also consider your venue's parking situation and the cost your guests will incur to travel there. If it's a destination wedding or will cost guests a lot in travel expenses, you may want to consider providing a shuttle bus.
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Seating and table arrangements
If you decide to create a seating chart, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, determine the layout of the room, including the shapes and sizes of the tables, and the location of the dance floor or buffet tables. You can work with your venue to understand the available options and previous successful layouts. The type of tables you choose will also impact guest interactions. Round tables are popular as they promote interaction among guests, while rectangular tables can create smaller groups. If you have a large guest list, rectangular tables may be a better option to maximise space.
When it comes to seating guests, consider their relationships and try to group them in ways that will maximise their enjoyment. Seat couples together and avoid separating them with obstructive centrepieces. Seat friends and family together so they can catch up and reunite. If a guest is attending alone, seat them with strong conversationalists or guests with similar interests to make them feel comfortable. You can also use your seating chart for some subtle matchmaking! However, avoid creating a designated 'singles table' as this may embarrass your guests. If you have several children attending, you may want to create a separate kids' table with engaging activities to keep them occupied, ensuring it's not too far from their parents' tables.
There are also a few ways to present your seating chart. You can arrange your guest list alphabetically or by table, with table numbers noted. You can then create a physical seating chart, which can be as simple as a notebook-sized paper or more elaborate, such as colourful acrylic shapes or a vintage framed map. You can also use digital tools to create and display your seating chart, making it easy to adjust your arrangements.
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Favours and decorations
When it comes to wedding favours and decorations, there are endless options to choose from. The key is to select items that reflect your style and personality. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Favours
- Edible treats: From jarred candles with earthy scents to miniature Jo Malone candles, or even personalised popcorn boxes, there are many options to delight your guests' senses.
- Personalised gifts: Consider engraved chopsticks crafted from high-quality bamboo, or elegant, floral origami cranes that double as table decorations.
- Creative surprises: Fortune cookie favours are a fun, affordable option that can also serve as a table game. Alternatively, fill mini lightbulbs with jelly beans, or hire a poet to compose custom verses for your guests.
- Memorable mementos: Send your guests home with something floral, such as baby evergreens or potted succulents, or opt for reusable gifts like stemless wine glasses or tin mugs emblazoned with your names.
- Unique experiences: Set up a potpourri station or offer a photo booth with temporary tattoos of your faces for guests to sport in their snapshots.
Decorations
- Floral arrangements: Dried flower décor, such as copper-framed floral wedding favours, or fresh-cut flowers placed near the door, add a delicate touch to your tables and venue.
- Lighting: Miniature lightbulbs filled with treats or simple tea lights can create a romantic ambiance.
- Table settings: Personalised place cards, napkins, and elegant tea sets can elevate the look of your tables.
- Backdrops: Consider a photo booth backdrop or a creative display of colourful scenes for guests to take photos with.
- Outdoor décor: If you're having an outdoor wedding, prepare for varying weather conditions. Offer guests protection from the elements with decorative umbrellas or fans.
Remember, it's important to plan and purchase these items in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Enjoy the process of selecting favours and decorations that will make your wedding day unique and memorable!
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$6.26
Food and drinks
You should also take into account the location and theme of your wedding. For instance, if you're having a rustic country wedding, a catered barbecue would be a perfect fit. You could also incorporate food that reflects your heritage and culture, or a dish that holds a special significance for you as a couple, such as what you ate on your first date. If you're having a summer wedding, consider serving seasonal vegetables and locally sourced produce.
It's important to cater to a range of dietary needs and allergies. Be sure to ask your guests about any dietary restrictions and work with your caterer to accommodate these. Label dishes with common allergens, such as gluten or nuts, and ensure that the waitstaff are well-informed about the ingredients in each dish.
When it comes to drinks, it's crucial to have a variety of options. Offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and don't forget to include some creative non-alcoholic choices, such as infused water with cucumber, lemon, lime, or mint. As a general rule of thumb, plan for one pound of ice per person, and more if your wedding is outdoors or during hot weather. Don't forget to include yourself, your vendors, and your wedding party in the headcount for food and drinks!
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Music and entertainment
Music is a crucial part of your wedding day, from setting the mood to providing a backdrop to the most special moments. The first step is to decide whether you want live music or a DJ. If you opt for a DJ, they can also provide music for your ceremony. However, live music adds a special touch to your ceremony and can ensure seamless timing for entrances.
If you choose live music, you'll need to decide on the types of instruments and the number of musicians. The venue and your wedding style will influence this decision. For instance, a string ensemble tends to feel more formal, while a guitarist or keyboard player is more casual. You can also consider adding an organ or piano to any trios or quartets, including a harp, or even jazzing things up with trumpets. For something unique, there are steel drum bands, violinists with loop pedals, or ukulele players.
The wedding ceremony music traditionally involves three types of songs: preludes, processionals, and recessionals. Prelude music is light and ambient, setting the mood while guests are being seated. The processional song accompanies the entry of the wedding party, including family and grandparents, and you may want a different, more dramatic song for the bridal processional. The recessional song is played when you exit the ceremony and should be bright, lively, and celebratory. You can also include interlude songs during the ceremony or to transition between portions of the ceremony. These are usually ultra-romantic and emotional, such as "Ave Maria" by Schubert or "In My Life" by The Beatles.
For the reception, you'll want to choose a song that will get everyone on the dance floor. You can also consider entertainment such as a photobooth, karaoke, or a live painter. If your budget allows, you could hire a wedding band, saxophonist, or even circus performers!
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