We’ve established time and again that wedding planning can be time-consuming and quite stressful for the couple, but there are also ways to take some of that load off of you! The solution is having the right people on your side. Apart from your dependable suppliers, don’t forget that your entourage is more than willing to be involved in your journey to saying “I Do!”
I know this to be true because my bridesmaids expressed their willingness to lend their assistance as soon as I told them they were part of the entourage! Since they know me best, I was assured that I could rely on their help in fulfilling up to the smallest items on the wedding planning to-do list.
If your entourage asks you what they can do to contribute and you’re unsure what task to give them, here’s a quick guide to give you an idea.
Ask your squad to help you research suppliers within your location, style, or budget. Delegating is key. So go ahead and ask one of your friends who might know a trusted MUA or a designer that suits your tastes. You may also need a shortlist of color palettes, and table styling ideas. Your entourage’s input will really help you arrive at a decision faster.
If you need a ride for your dress fittings, ask one of your entourage members to be with you! It’s always helpful to have another pair of eyes to check your wedding outfit. It’s a memory you’ll both share, plus they would really feel their involvement in the planning.
Food and wine are two of the most essential parts of the wedding reception. Who better to tag along than some of the wedding guests themselves? If your caterer will allow more than two people in the food tasting, then why not invite your MOH, bridesmaid, or groomsman? You can also ask for their opinions should you and your partner have a tough time deciding on the menu.
Like many brides-to-be, I also had my own wedding board on Pinterest while I was preparing for my big day. I initially wanted a fabric bouquet and the pegs and photos were all so dreamy. The only problem was, I wasn’t sure what some of the fabrics were called or where to get them! Fortunately, I had an artsy Maid of Honor who knew exactly what they were, so I asked her to help me source materials and conceptualize my bridal bouquet.
As soon as a concept was pinned down, my MOH and one of my bridesmaids DIY-ed my bouquet as well as the entourage bouquets and boutonnieres (if you’d like to see the final result, you can read all about our intimate wedding!). Your entourage may have other talents to share, too. A friend who can sing may want to lend their voice for your bridal march or first dance. Or how about creating your reception playlist if they’re into music? The key is to know what they’re good at and just politely tap them for it.
One of the most awaited numbers during the wedding reception is the bride and groom’s dance performance with their entourage. Since you might not have time to build an entire dance routine, ask one of your bridesmaids and groomsmen to do it for you! You can set a day to learn the routine or ask the person-in-charge to take a video of themselves to share with everyone. The latter option will allow you to practice in the comfort of your own homes.
This might be applicable on a case-to-case basis, because some couples would rather have the gifts as a surprise. But if there’s just too much on your plate and you’re comfortable having them see your gifts anyway, ask your squad to lend you a hand! Set a date to meet up and just spend the day assembling the gifts for your principal sponsors and other guests.
Some brides and grooms would rather keep this personal and save it for the wedding day itself, but if ever you need an initial audience to give you feedback, your squad will always be there to lend you an ear. They might even contribute a few anecdotes you can add or help you choose the right words, especially if they’re good at writing.