Summer Weddings - Who is Ready?

Now that we've passed Easter, we are prepping for the wedding season and there is no slowing down. So here are some of the "best tips from brides" for all of you brides out there who are gearing up! Many of these you have already heard, but that's why they are so solid. 

Breathe

The planning process can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be all of the time. Enjoy the details, Take time to consider your options and remember that some day you will be telling the story of your wedding and everything around it. Make yours a story of fun, abundance and balance.

Take Pictures before the I Dos

At the reception, you'll want to spend time with guests and family - those who love you and have made arrangements to be there for you. Even if you don't do a "first look" with your spouse to be, get as many group shots or you with attendants and him with his groomsmen, you with your parents, etc. as you can. You'll have those in "the bank" (as it were) and can enjoy the rest of the day. 

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff

Ladies: we know you've been told this already and it is difficult to take it to heart, but please try. Things can go wrong, but so what? They make the best stories. Remember that you are surrounded by people who absolutely adore you. Whatever it is that is slightly "off", you will survive it.

Have a Plan

A detailed itinerary will help you feel not only less stressed, but it's a nice way to keep everyone on the same page. If attendants and guests know where they are supposed to be, what they should be doing and when, they - and YOU - can relax into the flow with very little upset to the day. 

Have someone pack up your food!

You've heard this one many times too, and modern brides are not shy about dining, whether it is a sit down dinner or buffet. BUT, as a couple you will be moving through the day based on the timing of things and you'll want to visit with everyone at the reception. You may forget to eat. Ask your planner or a member of your wedding party to have the caterers pack a basket of all the delicious food from the reception. You can nosh on it later!

Don't Forget Your Spouse

Brides often tell us that they spend time with their mothers, close family and bridesmaids before the ceremony and work the crowd of beloved guests at the reception, only to realize that they didn't spend as much time with their new husbands. Yes you have your whole married lives ahead of you, but the party is FOR YOU. Take time to soak in the moments, make eye contact with each other, laugh together and celebrate. 

Speak up during the Toasts

While normally the Best Man and Maid of Honor, fathers and best friends hold court with stories and affection, guests appreciate it when the bride and groom stand to say a word or two. It's a chance to share your depth of feeling for each other and to say thanks to your guests.

We wish all of our Bridal Traditions brides and grooms the very best as the season gets into full swing.