Things To Keep In Mind....

Ladies and gentlemen, I wasn't planning on blogging about this right now, but after the events of this weekend I think it may be necessary to emphasize a few important event planning points. 

This weekend I assisted in a rustic-DIY wedding held at a family’s home located right outside of Leesburg, VA. My “partner in crime” was called in on this wedding for some charming Day-Of Coordination.  While the ceremony and reception went smoothly, and guests genuinely seemed to be enjoying the festivities, there were a few unplanned snags that could have been easily avoided.

Communicate With Your Vendors

It is very important to read through any and all contracts you have with your vendors. The vendors should have a clear outline of what is expected of them in their contract including the length of time they are working, and if they are bringing any additional help (i.e. catering staff).  If you are bringing in a planner for day-of coordination do not assume they will read through your vendor contracts (not all of them do) AND do not expect them to assume responsibility for the actions of your vendor.

Photo Credit: The Knot

Also for those using day-of planners, please remember to give them contact information for your vendors (just in case something goes wrong). Don’t hesitate to explain to them the general gist of the décor or give them a rundown of things that are not done or may have to be done on the “day of”---it is their job to help you and make your day go as smoothly as possible, so TALK to them.  Things will run better if the planner knows what is going on and where everything is.

Details, Details, Details

We all know weddings are stressful and there are a lot of things going on, but PLEASE stay as organized as possible.  Try not to be finishing your place cards or DIY centerpieces 3 hours before the ceremony. Maintain a list of things that need to be finished and give yourself a realistic timeline; if you think you need help finishing a task enlist the help of some trusted family and friends. The day of the wedding the only thing you should be doing is getting dressed and walking down the aisle---not overseeing flower arrangements.

Also remember to keep important decorations and other items together. Wedding and reception decorations should be organized together, flowers and bouquets should be labeled so they are put in the right place. If you have a cake-topper, marriage license, special gift or surprise, set it aside in a safe place and make sure you tell someone where it is—don’t risk losing it or scrambling to find it later.

**A note about marriage licenses- please make sure you understand all state and county laws and do go over the documents with your officiant prior to the wedding. 

Photo Credit: The Knot

Outdoor Pests

 If you are having an outdoor wedding or tented reception please be aware you may have some unexpected “guests” in the form of creepy crawly critters. There are a number of things you can do so your guests aren't dancing with mosquitoes or enjoying their dinner with arachnids. If possible, “bomb” or spray the area for bugs.  Some cleverly disguised citronella candles or torches are also great at keeping the pests under control.  Finally, offer up some bug spray in the bathrooms for your guests to use at leisure so they don’t feel like a bug buffet.