Things have been getting a little hectic for me around here. Okay, maybe not just a little — a lot. A whole lot!
I have a list of things to do about a mile long, and — it seems — no time to do anything! I have one of those PDA Smart Phones, and I keep all of my appointments on it so I can remind myself to do certain things, like call people or go to appointments. If you were here to see it right now, you’d definitely laugh. There are about 23,956 tasks for me to complete this week. I’ll fill you in on just a few…
-Finish a “must play/do not play” song list for the DJ
-Create a list of important shots for the photographer to take
-Finish the seating chart
-Make final payments for reception hall, photographer, florist, DJ, etc.
-Write up place cards
-Go to a friend’s wedding (that’s right, the rest of the world is still moving!)
-Mother’s day stuff… obviously. I have to thank my mom so much for helping me through this!
-Get a haircut/facial?
-Final dress fitting
-Call vendors to confirm… well, everything!
-Purchase carry-on bags for honeymoon
-Pick up veil and headpiece
… and the list goes on. I’m not one of those people who get very easily stressed out, but I am definitely nearing the edge right now! The only thing that’s keeping me sane is the fact that at the end, I’ll be married. So all the money and time spent — and general craziness right now — will be worth it in the end.
Oh, I almost forgot! I have to take a second to say how EXCITED I am about having my reception at the Garden Cathay Resort!
I have to admit that as time passed since the last time I saw the place, I began to forget what it looked like and get a little nervous. I know that sounds a little strange but the last time I visited was in February, and wintertime doesn’t exactly do justice to the gardens and the beautiful landscaping that they have there. It’s not that it was bad — but when I went this past week to finalize some things, it looked absolutely spectacular! There are water gardens and landscaping features that I didn’t even know existed, and everything is just clean and well-put together. I definitely started to get more excited after that visit… I hope the weather is good (or at least clear) on our wedding day — I’d hate for the guests to miss out on all the outdoor beauty of Garden Cathay! (Plus, it would make for a lot of mighty nice pictures… ) 😉
I would love to write something really unique and useful for you this week, but I have to admit that, as things are winding up, my brain is winding down! I will leave you with this piece of advice, though:
All you brides-to-be out there — when planning your wedding, think “easy!” There are going to be things that you want to do yourself, and that’s great — but if you can avoid doing it or afford to have someone else help you/do it for you, even better! It might not seem like that much work when you think of it, but as the day draws near you’re going to wish that you hired someone to do your hair/flowers/catering, etc.
I only say this because I didn’t want to listen to my mom’s advice about “keeping things simple” in the beginning, but I am SO glad I did. Putting a wedding together is more work that I thought!
Here are some tips to help keep it simple:
HudsonValleyWeddings.com Tip: To Shoot, or Not to Shoot. To help ensure that critical shots are taken, describe the special people to your photographer. Give him/her cues about your VIPs such as clothing, distinguishing characteristics, or better yet, with a photo.
HudsonValleyWeddings.com Tip: More Last Minute Details. Pick up your wedding bands. Put the fees and tips in envelopes (officiant, soloist, maitre d’ etc.) and give it to someone you put in charge of making the payments (usually the Best Man). Arrange with someone to bring items to the wedding venue… cake knife, toasting glasses, programs, votive candles, unity candles, ribbons, “Reserved For” cards, ring bearer pillow, flower girl baskets, emergency kit for the bride, wedding license, etc. and to take them home. Arrange for someone to return the rentals (tuxedos, chairs, etc.). Arrange for someone to take your bouquet and your gown “home” or bring it in for wedding gown preservation. Pack for your honeymoon. Design a “Day of the Wedding” schedule with times and tasks and share it with the key “players” in your wedding, such as your Maid of Honor and Best Man.
HudsonValleyWeddings.com Tip: Weather or Not. Many insurance companies now offer “Wedding Insurance.” As with any contractual agreement, it’s important to read the fine print. Wedding insurance can be a blessing in the event of cancellation or postponement.
HudsonValleyWeddings.com Tip: You Can Take No for an Answer. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, but when you do, explain that you will understand being turned down — you’d rather hear a “no” up front than an uncompleted assignment later.
Hope this helps!
~
