The best advice I was ever given while I was planning for my wedding was “Don´t forget to be a guest as well”. We spend so much time planning the biggest day of our lives, that when it arrives, we treat it almost like a work task. Worrying about the little things, ensuring we meet everyone, thank everyone, worry about everyone. Don´t forget the reason you spent so much time planning this day, was so that it would be perfect for you (not your guests) so you need to enjoy it too. Here are some tips to doing just that:
Slow Down
The day you have spent six months to a year planning (or a lifetime for some) will only last 24 hours (unless you get married during daylight savings, that could get you 25). 24 hours will go by very fast when it is so important to you. You must savor it. This means taking time out to enjoy everything you have prepared with your new spouse.
Don’t forget your partner
I remember being warned that I would not see my new husband after the ceremony until the next day as we would both be kept so busy, but the whole reason I wanted this day to be special was to share with him. I didn´t allow that to happen. I scheduled 45 minutes after the ceremony, before the meal for us to have drinks in our suite. This meant we got to share some laughs about the earlier moments in the day and plans for the rest of the night.
Don’t make your list too long
I have to have a dance with my great uncle joe, I have to play with my little niece Sarah, I have to get a photo with my father at sunset. There are so many memories that we want to create during the wedding day, we often don´t leave time for natural moments to occur. Pick a few things you really want to do on the wedding day and leave everything else to run its course naturally.
Overall, just remember to be a guest! You worked so hard to choose the right wine, the right music, the right setting. Enjoy it. Sit down, savor, smile. This is your special day. While all the attention is on you for the ceremony, once it is over you are as entitled as anyone (more even) to let your hair down and have some fun.
