Things You Wish Someone Told You Before the Wedding

Here are some helpful hints for a bride and groom to make their wedding day and planning process smoother:

Wedding Planning Tips:

1. Start Early: Begin planning at least 12-18 months in advance to give yourself plenty of time to secure vendors, venues, and get organized.

2. Set a Budget: Decide on a realistic budget early on and stick to it. Track your expenses to avoid surprises.

3. Delegate Tasks: Don’t try to do everything yourselves. Delegate tasks to family, friends, or hire a wedding planner if necessary.

4. Prioritize What Matters: Focus on the most important elements of the wedding that you and your partner care about (like food, music, or photography).

5. Create a Wedding Website: It’s an easy way to share details with your guests (RSVPs, event schedule, registry links, etc.).

6. Stay Organized: Use a wedding planning binder or app to keep track of contracts, receipts, and appointments.

On the Wedding Day:

1. Eat Breakfast: It's easy to forget to eat in the hustle and bustle of the day, but you'll need energy to get through.

2. Take Time for Yourself: Steal a quiet moment with your partner to reflect and enjoy the day.

3. Communicate with Your Vendors: Make sure they have a clear timeline and that someone is in charge of coordinating them.

4. Take Deep Breaths: Stress is normal, but remember to take deep breaths and focus on the joy of the occasion.

5. Have Fun!: You’ve worked hard for this day—don’t forget to enjoy it. Dance, laugh, and embrace the celebration!

For the Bride:

1. Comfortable Shoes: Consider bringing a second pair of shoes, especially if you’re wearing heels, for dancing or walking.

2. Hair and Makeup Trial: Make sure you do a trial run with your stylist before the wedding day to avoid surprises.

3. Emergency Kit: Pack a small bag with essentials like deodorant, lipstick, breath mints, band-aids, and sewing supplies.

For the Groom:

1. Plan Your Speech: If you’re doing a toast or speech, take a moment to prepare your thoughts in advance.

2. Stay Calm: The bride will likely be nervous, so staying calm and focused will help her feel supported.

3. Wear Proper Undergarments: Make sure everything fits well and comfortably to avoid adjusting during the day.

For Both:

1. Be Realistic: Things might not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay. Stay flexible and focus on the celebration of your love.

2. Practice Your Vows: If you’re writing your own vows, practice them beforehand so they feel natural.

3. Thank Your Guests: Make sure to thank your guests for being part of your big day, either in person or through a handwritten note after the wedding.