When planning a wedding, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook some essential elements. In the throes of vendor selections, color scheme decisions, and menu tastings, you risk forgetting essential details that will have a significant impact on your event. To ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day, here are some of the top wedding details you don’t want to forget.

Weather Considerations

If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, it’s crucial to account for the weather. Having a backup plan for unexpected changes in the weather, like high winds, rain, or unseasonable temperatures, could save your day from turning into a disaster. Renting a tent or selecting a location with available indoor spaces is always a good plan.

Guest Accommodation

Depending on the location of your venue and where your guests live, some might need a place to stay. It’s your responsibility to provide accommodation recommendations. Reserve a block of rooms at a nearby hotel, or suggest local bed-and-breakfasts or rental properties. It’s even better if you can negotiate group discounts on behalf of your guests.

Transportation

If your ceremony and reception are in different locations, or if your chosen accommodations are far from the venue, consider arranging transportation for your guests. Shuttle services, taxis, or even chartered buses can help avoid guests getting lost, ensure everyone arrives at the same time, and keep everyone safe if they decide to indulge in alcoholic beverages.

Contingency Plans

Imagine having a power outage during your reception or the DJ canceling on the morning of your wedding. While nobody wants to think about what could go wrong, having backup plans for major elements of your wedding can save you from a lot of stress. 

Vendor Meals

It’s easy to forget that the photographers, videographers, musicians, and other vendors will also need to eat. Ensure you’ve discussed their meal arrangements with your caterer to prevent any mishaps on the big day.

Special Diet Considerations

With an increased number of people having specific dietary restrictions, it’s crucial not to forget about them while planning your menu. A few gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian, and nut-free options will ensure that all your guests enjoy the culinary experience.

Seating Plan

An effective seating plan is key to a successful wedding reception. It ensures families are seated together, avoids any awkward situations between individuals who may not get along, and helps the reception to comfortably accommodate all guests. 

The License

One thing you absolutely don’t want to forget is the marriage license. The exact process and fees can vary by state or county, so make sure you research what is needed well in advance of the big day.

Wedding Dress Preservations

Planning for what happens to your wedding dress after the big day often takes a backseat in the hustle and bustle of wedding prep. Contact dry cleaners before the wedding and enquire about their preservation services so you can keep your dress looking perfect long after the wedding.

Thank-You Notes

Acknowledging your guests’ presence and presents is essential. Plan to send thank-you notes within three months of your wedding. A well-written, timely thank-you note is a classy ending to your wedding event and a perfect way to extend your appreciation to your friends and family.

Comfortable Shoes

You will spend the better part of your wedding day on your feet, and believe it or not, shoes can make or break your big day. Ensure that your play-off between style and comfort is leaning more towards comfort. Swapping your high heels for embellished flats or even athletic shoes for the reception can be a great idea.

Emergency Kit

As perfect as you want your day to be, there are always tiny hiccups that can arise. An emergency kit with items like safety pins, band-aids, makeup for touch-ups, hairpins, tissues, and deodorant can prove to be a lifesaver. 

In the whirlwind of planning a wedding, it can be easy to lose sight of the details. However, mindful preparation and attention to details, no matter how small, can ensure a smooth event that leaves you and your guests with blissful memories of your special day. 

Are you just in the initial stages of planning your wedding? Looking for the perfect wedding venue in Northern Colorado? Check out Platte River Fort in Greeley.