The 20 Details Couples Typically Forget When Wedding Planning

Miya Jones Photography

There is no denying that wedding planning is overwhelming and stressful. Between deciding on a venue, choosing your color palette, and finalizing the guest list, it’s A LOT to think about. And even the most organized bride-to-be could find themselves asking, “Am I missing something?”

So, we’re here to help by sharing the 20 details couples often forget while wedding planning! 

Silverware Rentals 

An often overlooked aspect to wedding planning is the rentals - which are not only important but can be a very expensive detail sometimes. The key here is to confirm if your venue includes silverware rental in your package. If they don’t, it’s something to add to your wedding planning list!

The Couple’s Parents Flowers 

While some may think this is an obvious detail, others may overlook additional flower arrangements - such as boutonnieres for fathers and corsages for mothers. And, make sure everyone is wearing them on your wedding day! The last thing you want is a picture of all the groomsmen and half of them are missing their boutonnieres!

An On-Hand Seamstress 

Things happen - especially when it comes to wedding-day attire. A snag in your dress, a rip in the veil. An overlooked yet important detail is to have a seamstress - or someone who knows how to sew - on hand. 

The Marriage License 

You’d be surprised how many people forget their marriage license - both getting a marriage license and forgetting it on their wedding day. And without a marriage license, you’re not legally married! Make sure to set several reminders to have it on hand. 

Enjoying the Moment 

It’s extremely easy to get caught up in the moment on your big day. And before you know it, it’s over! Make a point to stop, take a breath, and be present in the moment. (Pro tip: set a reminder or alarm on your phone to remind yourself!)

Eating 

Speaking of being wrapped in the moment, many couples get so wrapped up they forget to eat! It’s extremely important to eat - and stay hydrated - throughout the entire day to avoid any potential issues (like fainting) during your ceremony. An easy and good way to stay nourished and hydrated is to have food for you and your wedding party while getting ready. 

Vendor Payments 

While most vendors handle payments prior to the wedding day, some vendors do collect the last bit of payment either after the wedding. Ensure you know when your vendor payments are due so you aren’t blindsided on your big day!

Lighting 

Another typically overlooked detail is lighting. While your venue can help with lighting placement and suggestions, make sure you have it right for your wedding day! Bad or insufficient lighting can impact the overall ambience and design. 

A Heat and Sun Backup Plan 

Especially important for outdoor weddings, a backup plan for extreme heat or sun is an often forgotten detail. For example, musicians with string instruments need to play out of the sun as it could damage their instruments. Additionally, if your wedding day is hot, make sure your guests have plenty of water and fans to keep themselves cool. 

Including Yourself in the Guest List

Another aspect that may seem a bit obvious but is sometimes forgotten is including you and your partner in the guest count! You’ll need to add yourself the number of entrees, chair rentals, etc. Otherwise, you’ll be standing while everyone else is sitting!

Forgetting Your Daily Routine 

Like getting too wrapped up to eat, some couples forget to take any daily medications or supplements! Make sure to set your alarm or reminder on your phone so you don’t forget!

Venue Transportation 

While we love Uber and Lyft, they aren’t always the most reliable mode of transportation. It’s important to ensure you coordinate transportation for you and your wedding party to your venue. 

Writing a Thank-You Speech 

It may seem easy enough to wing it, but having your thank-you speech ready is way less stressful! That way, you don’t have to worry about forgetting someone or something or fumbling over your words. 

Reserving Ceremony Spots for Family 

If you plan on seating your family members or close friends somewhere specific, make sure to place signs on their seats or rope off a specific area. 

Writing Your Vows

Even the best on-the-spot speakers can get tripped up when it comes to writing their vows. Writing your vows is a crucial part of wedding planning as they are the heart of your wedding ceremony!

Getting Pictures with Guests 

While you don’t have to get pictures with ALL the guests, it can be disappointing if when you go through all your wedding photos, it’s only you, your partner, and the wedding party! A great way to grab pictures with guests is via a photobooth or instructing the photographer to emphasize getting photos with guests. 

Assigning a Gift Gatherer 

If your guests are bringing gifts or you have a card box at your ceremony or reception, make sure to assign someone to collect them and get them to you after the reception. 

Chargers 

There’s nothing worse than a dead phone battery - especially when you want to capture moments throughout your big day! Keep a charger or multiple chargers on hand to ensure your phone (as well as guest’s phones) stay charged. 

Vendor Thank-You Notes

As you know, wedding days are crazy! But, it’s important to thank your vendors. After all, they were the people who made your wedding day happen! Consider sending a thank you note to your vendors shortly after your wedding day as a token of appreciation. 

Gratuity for Vendors 

In addition to your thank you note, if you’d like to show extra appreciation, consider adding a tip in your thank you notes. This is especially true if you feel you received above and beyond service and want to add a little something extra as a thank you!

Yes wedding planning is a stressful time, but if you keep these tips in mind, you won’t be wondering if you forgot something important on your big day! 

Previous
Previous

10 Reasons to Plan a Winter Wedding

Next
Next

Five Reasons You Should Get Married on Halloween