Most people planning a wedding ceremony are doing it for the first time with a basic understanding of what needs to be done. Of course, you want the ceremony to be perfect and with all the other things you have to think about it can all be quite stressful. But, if you get organized and keep on track, your wedding ceremony can come off without a hitch.
Here are 10 things to consider about when planning your wedding ceremony:
1. Know your Numbers - Along with your fiancé discuss the size of wedding you'd like then make a list of who you're inviting. If you are over your number, start making adjustments. Remember, everyone that you invite to the wedding ceremony, you will need to invite to the wedding reception.
2. Know your wedding party - Decide who you want in your wedding party and how many are going to be in it. Again, you and your fiancé are going to have to make a list of who is important to you, both male and female, and work out your wedding party. Remember your wedding party will be an important part of your wedding ceremony so it is important to choose those that are important to you and those who will support you.
3. Know your Location - Are you going to have a church or non-church wedding ceremony? If you choose a church ceremony, you're going to have to find a church that works for both you and your fiancé. Choosing a church wedding will mean things are going to be a bit more formal and you may need to start thinking about people to participate in readings etc. Choosing a non- church wedding opens up many places to have your own unique and special ceremony, remember many places book up early for wedding ceremonies so make sure you book early. If you're thinking about getting married in the outdoors, always make sure wedding ceremonies are permitted and you have a back up plan in case it rains.
4. Know your Flowers - You are going to need flowers for the wedding ceremony, choosing local in season flowers are always a good deal. You'll need flowers to decorate pews, and the altar, and don't forget flowers for your wedding party. Bride's maid bouquets, used at the wedding ceremony, often double as the centre pieces for the head table. (It's quick and easy transition and gives the brides maid somewhere to put their bouquet during the reception.) Not just the bride, bride's maids and flower girls, get flowers. The groom his groomsmen, fathers of the groom and bride along with any other special males attending the wedding ceremony, will need a boutonnière. The mother's of both the bride and groom along with any other special females, attending the wedding ceremony will also need corsages.
5. Know your Music - Discuss what type of music you want for your ceremony you'll need music for: when guests are arriving, the procession, and if you choose to, during the ceremony. You may even choose to have music playing as guests leave the wedding ceremony. If you're looking for something classy and low key you can often hire high school or university students to play your choice of musical instruments or sing. Remember this music is separate from your reception and will add a nice personalized touch to your wedding ceremony.
6. Know your post wedding ceremony line up: You will need to arrange a receiving line as people are leaving. Make sure you choose an area with plenty of room which has an easy flow from the ceremony area to the exit. Make sure your wedding party and others involved in the line know their place well ahead of time, and don't be shy about having someone announce how the receiving line will be set up.
7. Know your Photographer / Photographs: You will want to document the whole day as the bride gets ready, the ceremony, the reception and of course the bridal party pictures. You may actually want to consider also getting a videographer to preserve your ceremony forever. Important things to keep in mind about photos during your ceremony; ensure your photographer(s) and videographer will be dressed appropriately for the occasion. Although almost all photographers know this, it never hurts to ask them and make sure they look appropriate. Make sure the photographer is aware of where they can and cannot be during the ceremony. If you prefer a certain angle or want plenty of pictures taken during a specific part of the wedding, make sure your photographer is aware. Remember there are no re-takes so make sure you choose someone you're comfortable with and can communicate with.
8. Know the Logistics - Normally, the groom will get to the church or ceremony site with family or groomsmen and the bride will get there in the limo. You can work out whatever you want. Just be sure that everyone has a way to get there and to the reception. Ensure that any out of town guests have been given maps or instructions on how to reach the wedding ceremony. If it's in your budget you may even want to arrange transportation for these guests. Whatever you choose to do, make sure everyone involved in your wedding ceremony knows the details ahead of time.
9. Know where the Rings are - Rings are often left with the best man, but any trust worthy member of the wedding party can be given this responsibility. It is best to give the rings to the person the night before, or first thing when you see them the day of the wedding. It seems like such an easy thing to remember, but if the duties are left to a nervous groom or bride chances are they'll forget. It's shocking how often wedding ceremonies are stopped because someone is running back to the house or hotel room to get the rings.
10. Know how to let go - Weddings can be an extremely stressful time and although we can spent countless hours, days, weeks and months planning the perfect wedding ceremony. Not everything will go the way you've planned it. Remember that you're probably the only one who knows it hasn't gone according to plan. We can't control everything so take a few deep slow breaths and enjoy your special day.