Let’s think into the future… your wedding day is finally here and you cannot wait to marry the person of your dreams! You have been planning for months, maybe even years, and now the day is actually here! You more than likely woke up extremely early because you could barely sleep, you have your coffee or mimosa in hand and you are ready to enjoy every last moment of YOUR day. I’m sure that you have heard many times, from everyone, that the day goes by so fast that you won’t even remember half of it (especially if you opted for an open bar). So let’s take some advice from couples that have already “been there done that” and make sure that you don’t spend weeks after your big day with major FOMO.
Don’t Get FOMO: Things Couples Wish They Would Have Done
Lesson #1: Get A Videographer.
Yes, we know, it is just one more thing to add to the budget! But take it from this bride who said, “While my dad was giving me away, he said something absolutely hilarious that made everyone laugh. He passed away six months after our wedding, and I don’t remember what he said. Because I didn’t get a videographer, I may never remember.” Worried about cost? Pro Tip: ask your videographer to cut down their time to maybe just the ceremony and part of the reception. That way you get all the important stuff (like speeches and that first kiss) without having to break the bank!
Lesson #2: Stand Your Ground.
Your vendors are what make your dreams a reality, but at what cost? Hallie said; “I wish I had been more assertive with my vendors. For example, my florist suggested a few yellow flowers in my bouquet, which I didn’t really want, and my DJ played some awful songs at our reception. Looking back, I wish I hadn’t caved into them because I wanted to be an easy bride.” Vendors are there to make your day exactly the way you envision it. Yes, since most of them plan a lot of weddings each year, they will have suggestions for you, but never think you are going to hurt their feelings if you say no to them.
It’s OKAY to be polite and say no to anything you just aren’t feeling. Pro Tip: you may have a complicated vendor in the mix. Ask your other half, or perhaps someone from the wedding party to come to the next meeting and discuss your worries, and if you are still getting push back from your vendor, to heck with them! Find someone else who is willing to create YOUR vision, because trust us, they are out there!
Lesson #3: It doesn’t have to be a “White Wedding”.
This one is pretty simple. If you don’t want to wear white because you are worried about getting your dress dirty, can’t find the right shade, or whatever your reason is… don’t! Jessica said; “I 100% regret wearing white! I hate how I look in white, so I was so uncomfortable, and I felt like a giant marshmallow all evening.” We are seeing more colors coming down the bridal runway every single season! Just because it’s “tradition” doesn’t mean you have to follow. Be your own kind of bride! Pro Tip: having trouble finding dresses that aren’t white? Do some online research. You can find companies that would be willing to dye your dress, artists that are willing to paint on your dress, or even custom make your dress!
Lesson #4: Your Day, Your Rules.
We all have heard about the “Karens” of the world by now, right? Well if you have those types of people in your life and don’t want to invite them to your wedding….don’t! Maybe you have that third cousin twice removed that you know will drink too much and attempt to take over the DJ Booth. Or you have those few acquaintances in the office, and they hear you in the breakroom with your work besties talking flowers and honeymoons.
Don’t feel like you have to invite them just because they gave you the website for some great honeymoon package deals, or referred you to the caterer you are going to use. Take it from Kim, “Inviting certain people just so we didn’t offend them, only to have them show us exactly why we didn’t want to invite them.” Pro Tip: if you think they are going to make your wedding memorable and make sure you have a great time…invite them!
Lesson #5: Mental Photographs.
Pam Beesly’s aunt said it best, “Hey my aunt told me something neat. She said, everything with the wedding goes by so fast, we should try to take mental pictures of the high points.” Slow down right before those big moments, take a breath, and take it all in… trust me, people will wait for you before starting the speeches! Don’t worry about anything that is no longer within your control the day-of. You spent enough time planning and worrying, so today is YOUR day, so take time to remember it!
C/O The Office
Complete Weddings + Events in Des Moines, IA
Planning your dream wedding or event should be simple and fun, and we firmly believe that having all our services under one roof makes planning easier for you. So relax. We’ve got this. Our job is to make this easy for you, your job is to enjoy the party! Complete Weddings + Events, Des Moines’ leading provider of event and wedding photography, videography, lighting, DJ services & photo booth rental.