important for your suppliers to know what’s going on when. Be sure to include: • Hair, makeup and getting ready. • Photographer arrival and departure, along with essential shot list. Factor in time for getting ready and couple shots. • Travel time between venues if applicable. • Ceremony start and end times. • Cocktail hour or drinks reception timings, including any transition periods such as turnaround of the venue between ceremony and reception, or reception and evening party. • Reception elements such as speeches, first dance and cake-cutting. • Any end of night plans such as fireworks or sparkler send-off. If this all sounds a bit overwhelming, why not consider hiring an on-the-day coordinator? They’ll be on site to make sure everything runs like clockwork and is a great option if your budget doesn’t stretch to a wedding planner from the get-go. Alternatively, assign the task to a close friend or family member to keep things moving and keep an eye on timing so you don’t have to. By being organised in the run-up and delegating for the day, you’ll make sure your big day is as stress-free as possible. WE’RE A BIT WORRIED ABOUT FAMILY DYNAMICS – THERE ARE GOING TO BE A LOT OF OPINIONS! Weddings can be emotionally charged for many stake holders but the key is communication and setting healthy boundaries. Clarify your priorities. It’s for the two of you to decide on your non-negotiables – be prepared not to compromise on these no matter what others think. Also have to a hand a further list of areas you’re flexible on, so that if anyone important to you feels they need to influence an area, you’re prepared to present them with something you’d welcome their opinion on. Set your boundaries early on. Decide who gets to have input on which areas. A guest list is a good one, as parents or guardians are likely to have family members in mind they’re keen for you to invite. So, make sure you allow space for this and set parameters on how many people you’re happy for them to suggest – you don’t want your budget running away from you. Consistency is crucial, so don’t waiver on the areas you’ve allowed or not allowed influence over or it can lead to unwanted interference. Keep communication clear and firm, addressing any conflicts calmly. Keep it polite, concise, then close the door (figuratively). For example: “We’ve decided to opt for xyz because it works for our budget, we hope you understand.” The end. Overall, keep the focus on joy and celebration. Remember, your wedding day is about the two of you, no one else. WE WANT TO PLAN THE DAY OF OUR DREAMS, BUT ALSO MAKE SURE OUR GUESTS HAVE THE BEST TIME. Your wedding, your way, is our mantra, but it is possible to go too far down that road. It’s your day, but happy guests make for a happy day. So, what can you do to achieve this without compromising your vision? Keep guests amused being sure to plan entertainment, comfortable spaces and adequate refreshment. Transitions between key parts of the day can easily become boring so these periods are important to remember. Hire musicians or entertainment such as a magician for the post ceremony lull when loved ones are mingling with drinks and you’re off for your Getty Images 38
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