Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also quickly turn into some of the most stressful. As a seasoned wedding planner with over a decade of experience, I’ve learned a few hacks that can make your big day smoother and more enjoyable. 

Whether you’re looking to hire a coordinator or a full-service planner, these tips are designed for couples who want to ensure their day is perfect without getting bogged down in the details:

1. Collect All Of Your Guest Addresses Efficiently

Gathering guest addresses can be a daunting task, but using an online tool like Postable can simplify the process. Not only does it help collect physical addresses, but it also allows you to gather email addresses. This can be incredibly useful if you need to send out mass communications to your guest list. For example, if a severe weather warning is in effect on the morning of your wedding and you need to move your ceremony from an outdoor venue to your hotel, having those email addresses will make contacting everyone about the change in address much easier.

2. Book Your Wedding Coordinator Early

Even if you plan to hire a coordinator (rather than a planner) for the day of your wedding, book them early. Services within your package may not begin until closer to your wedding day, but your coordinator can provide valuable resources and vendor recommendations at the time of booking. This can save you both time and money in the long run.

3. Use A Wedding Website For RSVPs

Instead of traditional paper RSVPs, consider using your wedding website for guest responses. This approach saves on postage and makes tracking attendance much easier. Plus, it’s more environmentally friendly and guests can quickly update their responses if plans change.

4. Repurpose Your Ceremony Decor And Flower Arrangements

Maximize your decor budget by repurposing ceremony decorations for your reception. Work with your florist to design arrangements that can be easily moved. For instance, bouquets can double as centerpieces, aisle arrangements can decorate the DJ or band stage, and your ceremony arch can become a beautiful backdrop for your sweetheart table or cake table. Also, make sure your wedding coordinator and the floral team have plans to make this transition happen beautifully for you.

5. Create A Wedding-Day Timeline For VIPs

Create a detailed timeline specifically for your wedding party and family VIPs. This timeline should include important times like hair and makeup schedules and when they need to be dressed and photo-ready. Your coordinator or planner will handle the finer details with your vendors, but having a clear schedule for your VIPs will keep everyone on track.

6. Designate A Wedding Day Decision Maker

Choose a trusted friend or family member to act as your wedding day point person. This individual will handle any last-minute questions or issues, allowing you to enjoy your day stress-free. Make sure they are well-informed about your plans and can make decisions on your behalf if necessary.

7. Make Sure There’s An Emergency Kit Handy

When interviewing potential coordinators, be sure to ask if they provide an emergency kit and who it is available to. An emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, stain remover, pain relievers, and breath mints can prevent last-minute runs to the store and ensure you’re prepared for any minor mishaps. It may seem like a little detail, but can save the day in the long run and it’s one less thing you’ll have to worry about.

8. Use A Wedding Planning App

Many free wedding planning apps can help you stay organized, track your to-do list, and manage your guest list all in one place. These apps can be a lifesaver when juggling multiple tasks and details.

9. Create A Photo-Sharing Folder

Set up a shared album where guests can upload their photos from the wedding. This gives you access to candid shots and different perspectives that your professional photographer might not capture.

10. Delegate All The Small Tasks

Assign small jobs to willing friends and family members. This can include tasks like picking up rentals or assembling favors. Additionally, designate someone to be responsible for receiving all your items at the end of the night, including personal decor, gifts, and leftover desserts. Trust me, this is the absolute last thing you’ll want to be doing after your reception ends!

11. Plan Unplugged Moments

Ask guests to put away their phones during key moments of the ceremony and reception. This ensures that everyone is present and engaged, and it also results in better professional photos without distracting background screens. Be sure to also plan unplugged moments with you and your new spouse after the ceremony! This is such a special day, so soak it all in!

By incorporating these hacks into your wedding planning process, you can alleviate some of the stress and ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience with the process. This is a day we want you to look back and smile on for the rest of your life.

At Heavenly Day Events, we’re here to help make your wedding day as perfect as you’ve always dreamed. We’d love to help you plan your perfect day! (And yes, we do have an emergency kit ready to go. It’s got everything you may need and more honestly!) Reach out to us and let us know how we can help you make your wedding day heavenly!