WHEN THINGS DON’T GO TO PLAN: YOUR PRE WEDDING CHECKLIST FOR HANDLING CURVEBALLS LIKE A PRO!
We only need to look back to 2020 to know that even the best planned weddings can be thrown a curveball at the last minute.
Wedding plans change, life happens and surprises on the day are sometimes completely out of our control, but that’s not to say that you can’t plan for the unexpected!
With hundreds of weddings under my belt, I’ve seen it all and I’m always prepping my couples for multiple scenarios to ensure nothing can dampen their day. So if you’re keen to keep the surprises minimal and be ready for anything, here’s my tried and tested checklist for handling any curveball like a pro!
Curveball #1 - Every bride’s fear… Wet Weather!
Venue: This goes without saying, but always have a plan B! Whether it’s asking your venue for their own contingency plans for an outdoor ceremony or discussing indoor locations for photos with your photographer, it’s important to know what your back up plan is beforehand so you can rest into your day no matter what.
Timeline: Rain is always going to make even the smallest things take longer, especially if venue changes are in order, so be sure to create an alternative timeline that leaves extra space for travel, touch ups and any last minute changes.
Umbrellas: I’m sorry to tell you, but your bunnings umbrella is probably not going to cut it for your wedding photos. So, at a minimum, make sure you have some clear or white umbrellas on hand for you as the couple, and the rain may end up being the very thing that takes your wedding photos to a whole new level.
Curveball #2 - Running late
Your guests: Nobody wants to be that person who shows up late to a wedding. So give your guests plenty of time to settle in and give them a heads up if the area is prone to some traffic delays on busy days. Keep your eyes peeled for any upcoming roadworks in the area and give clear directions on any extra parking options. And most of all, urge them to be early!
Your vendors: If they’re like me, your vendors will likely leave a whole lot of extra time in their schedule to avoid these kinds of delays and turn up early no matter what, but if you’re unclear on how punctual your team will be, be sure to have that conversation beforehand and know exactly what their plans are for any unexpected delays.
Your Bridal Party: One of the best parts of having ‘getting ready’ photos is that it ensures everyone is together ahead of time. To keep things to schedule, appoint someone in the group to keep track of time and be responsible for when you’ll leave.
Your timeline: Having the right expectations from the start is key here, because the truth is, your wedding day will rarely run to the exact minute of your plan. So plan ahead by adding in a buffer for the unexpected and allow extra time for any extra logistics. The more spacious your day feels, the better you’ll feel too.
Curveball #3 - Wardrobe Malfunctions
Little things: All it takes is for someone to be missing a shoe, or all the men’s brand new suits and shirts still having tags on them (“anybody have scissors?”) to add some extra running-around ahead of the wedding (and often eating up precious photo time). To keep things running smoothly, give everyone a packing list and ensure all tags are removed before getting to the venue. It also helps to keep some things handy at each ‘getting ready’ venue, like scissors, a sewing kit, shoe polish, lint roller and any other helpful items.
Big things: Nothing feels more stressful than a very obvious wardrobe malfunction hours before your wedding. Keep your cool by having a game plan in place - who can you reach out to for help last minute if you need it? Where would be your closest store or tailor? Do you have a washing machine you can access or an extra accessory on hand to replace any lost ones?
Curveball #4 - The disappoint from said curveballs
On top of any wedding nerves, dealing with the disappointment that your day is not going exactly to plan can end up being a curveball of its own. It's important to remember - you have every right to feel disappointed. This is your special day and you want things to be perfect. But at the end of the day, all that truly matters is that you get to marry the love of your life, and hey - now you have some epic stories for the grandkids in years to come!
Want more expert tips and advice on planning out your special day?
If you’re planning your wedding in the SE QLD or Northern NSW region, download The Young Lovers Wedding Planning Guide (free download) and start having a blast planning your wedding.
And if I can bring my experience and creative lens to your dream day with wedding photography and videography, reach out and enquire about my availability.
I’d love to support you in creating a magical day with memories that will forever make you smile through any storm.
Here’s to you, young lovers!
Sean.
