It’s your wedding day, right? Well, not exactly. Now it is true that your wedding day should be a reflection of you and your partner. However, there are certain considerations you should address when it comes to your guests. You want to ensure that everyone has a great time, not just you and your partner. Hear is a list of some of the items that will make your guests more comfortable.
Scheduling of Ceremony in relation to Reception - If your guest list is derived of a large portion of out-of-town guests, consider having the reception directly following the ceremony. Guest will appreciate not having to “find something to do” in between. You may want to consider having your ceremony and reception at the same venue. Many hotels, banquet halls and country clubs can offer a beautiful setting for your vows and a fantastic place to have your reception, without the travel.
Transportation of out-of-town guests – It is not your responsibility to provide transportation for your out-of-town guests. However, as a courtesy and convenience, select a hotel with an air port transfer or shuttle. Also, choose a reception venue with shuttles to nearby hotels.
Provide Detailed Maps – It is imperative to provide a detailed map from the hotel to the ceremony site, from the ceremony site to the reception site and from the reception site back to the hotel. Don’t leave your guests trying to follow someone from the area. Your guests need to feel comfortable in taking their time from site location to site location, and they will need to feel as though they can “retire” for the evening without inconveniencing other guests/members of the bridal party. Your maps should include written directions with street names, left/right and directional notations. (Be sure to include the number of miles to each turn.) Then provide a visual map on the reverse side, with landmarks. There should be a formal address and a phone number of the venue, along with a phone number of a local contact.
Music – When deciding what type of music will be playing at the reception make sure to consider your audience. You don’t want 1990’s hits playing if your guest demographics are from the 70’s era. Match sure to select a mix, this way everyone will be inclined to get up and dance the night away.
Bouquet Toss & Garter Toss – When planning your reception festivities don’t feel obligated to include these in your night. If the majority of your guests are married, then consider skipping the bouquet toss and instead award the bouquet to the couple who has been married the longest. As for the garter toss, invite all the married men to the floor and the winner is to place the garter on his wife’s leg. (In the privacy of their own home ofcourse.)
Restrooms – I understand that this might sound strange, but be aware of the number of restrooms available at your reception site. This item becomes even more critical if you are planning an at home wedding. Make sure that there is one restroom for every 25-50 guests. Hand washing units are also a nice touch and help guest feel as easy about transferring germs among others.
Daily programs/Maps/Shopping – A daily program can inform out-of-town guests of important times and places to be present. These programs can also act as information guides to local attractions, movies locations, shopping locations and nearby restaurants. Maps of the local area will help your guest ensure they can find points of interest, as well as, things to do if time allows.
In room beverage kit – If your budget allows, put together a basket of bottled water, sodas, juice. This gift will come in especially handy if your hotel does not offer an in-room bar, room service or gift shop.
Corsages & Boutonnieres for Rehearsal Dinner – For those out-of town guests that are wedding participants, a corsage and/or boutonniere for the rehearsal dinner can set the tone for the events to come. It is a small inexpensive gift that will make your guest feel like royalty. Just make sure to include your local bridal party attendants.
BIO:The Flower Lady has created more than 12,000 floral arrangements in her years as a professional bridal/event consultant and silk floral designer. Visit www.BloomedToLast.com to learn more tips, see floral examples, or to read more wedding planning articles.
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