Living in the moment on your wedding day
"Be present in all things and thankful for all things." Maya Angelou
And how can you possibly be present when a wedding day is a succession of big moments coming in at one after another? This unrepeatable day that takes months to plan, but passes in mere hours? Here is a working list of things that I have seen brides do that helps them be able to be more fully present.
- Wedding Planner. A well seasoned wedding planner has seen some things. They know all the stuff that needs to get done, and they are happy to make sure it happens. They do the follow up. They have the checklist. They carry around all the phone numbers. They are the liaison between you and the team of professionals that work together for you. A good wedding planner will oversee all aspects of the wedding day. All that non-romantic nitty -gritty is their jam.
- Family Photo Helper. When the time comes to take family photos, a lot of times the photographer doesn't know which woman is Aunt Linda, or what Grandma Miller looks like. This is a great job for a bridesmaid to be selected for, and they can step in and be the photographers point person in helping to identify family members and get their attention. This way, your photographer can quickly and efficiently get family photos taken.
- Snacks. You have the most amazing food planned for the reception, but a lot is happening before then. And it is easy to forget to eat, or just not prioritize it. The rejuvenative effects of a good snack can help boost your mood and energy levels.
- Planned Moments. On your wedding day your friends and family want to surround you. They want to love you and celebrate you, but it can feel like a whirlwind. I've seen bride and grooms plan ahead of time to have a protected time together in which they privately read vows to one another, or spend a few minutes praying.
- Delegate. Friends and family want to help, and sometimes don't even know how to unless they are tasked with a specific job. Brainstorm a list of tasks, and start asking specific people to help with jobs. This might involve the bridal party, family, or friends. Examples would be: putting gifts and cards in your car trunk, gathering special photos and mementos used as decoration at the reception, and someone to deliver miscellaneous items brought to the venue back to your home.
