Ask a Planner: 50 Hacks You Need to Know About
Updated: Feb 6, 2020
As someone who has not only planned, but attended hundreds of weddings, I see the things that fall through. I see the common mistakes made during weddings, the budget errors and the DIY fails. I'm seasoned in last-minute problem solving at this point. And I know, you're engaged which means you're probably getting tons of unsolicited advice from just about everyone. But who better to provide guidance than an actual wedding planning experts? To make your life easier, I've gathered some of the most useful and practical wedding hacks that every bride should take into consideration. And I promise, after reading this list, there's no doubt your wedding will go a little smoother.
Research wedding blackout dates
Have a dedicated email address for planning
Check your credit
Send invites digitally
Stay organized with binders and folders
Keep a paper trail; contracts, receipts, etc.
Number each RSVP card in case they don't write their name
Have a small cake to cut, and a sheet cake for guests
Have a Friday or Sunday wedding to save money
Buy a pre-owned dress
Break-in your wedding shoes!!
Designate who gives toasts
Get a personalized stamp for thank-you cards
Keep a list of all vendors' contact info.
Save for unexpected expenses
Opt for food trucks instead of catering
Use veil weights if it's a windy day
Give your planner/photographer a family member cheat sheet
Borrow chairs from local businesses
Set up a kids table with activities
Download wedding planning apps
Bring an extra set of all stationery for photos
Avoid dairy for a few days to reduce bloating
Buy heel protectors to walk in grass
Create a playlist and "DON'T play" list for DJ
Collect photo pose ideas
Stash lipstick at your table ahead of time
Keep Wine Wipes and Tide pens handy
Rough up your shoe soles with sandpaper
Save flowers from your bouquet to dry
Get/make programs that double as fans if it's hot
Use glue or stickers instead of licking envelopes
Have guests write their address on postcards for your thank-you cards
Use mosquito-repelling perfume
Make sure to have snacks handy during the day
Try DIY projects way sooner than later
Go to bed early the night before
Lay out dress and accessories the night before
Do hair and makeup trials to know how long it takes
Don't skip any meals that day!
Start your seating chart early
Leave extra time for first look and family/wedding party photos
Don't let your cocktail hour run too long!
Don't splurge on favors, guests rarely keep them
Make a wedding website
Take some time off of work
Create a hashtag to easily see your guests' photos
Research and gather documents for marriage license
Create a detailed schedule of the weekend for your wedding party
Last but not least.... HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER! They will help with all of this and more. You never know what last-minute surprises will come up. You'll be thankful you have someone experienced to handle it.

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