After you’ve made the decision to get engaged, there are a bunch of steps you will need to take before you get married. Some of the earliest choices couples make are when and how to make the announcement. A more popular trend has been to schedule an engagement shoot. Couples can take a selection of photos that can be used as the image on a card or social media post. Before you book your photographer, take a look at these tips on what to expect and how to plan for the best possible experience.
Comfort Should Take Precedence
Typically, engagement photos are taken outdoors. There’s something about the bright, airy feeling created by natural lighting that works ideally for a romantic gesture like an engagement announcement. While being outside does offer a ton of options for captivating and dynamic shots, it also means that you will be dealing with all of the irritations of the outdoors. To enjoy your day, a top priority should be your comfort.
Engagement In Style
It goes without saying you want to look your best for your photos. However, putting on an outfit that goes against the seasonal temperature, can easily become ruined by dirt is an easy way to turn a fun experience into a burden. There’s no need to suffer for this shoot, so be sure to find a way to blend style and comfort.
Hire Experts for Hair and Makeup
Bringing a professional photographer on board is an easy decision for your shoot. To make the process even smoother, consider going a step farther and hiring experts for hair and makeup. When you’ve got people with experience handling your look, there are fewer items on your to-do list to stress over before the day arrives. Plus, this can be a fun way to test out options for your wedding hair and makeup needs. If you love the abilities of the people you use, then you can book them right away.
Have Fun With the Experience
There are going to be plenty of moments where you feel overwhelmed as you plan the details of your big day. The engagement shoot, on the other hand, is your chance to just relax and have some fun. There’s no pressure, only a chance to capture exactly how happy you are about this milestone moment. Many couples take things to the next level by turning the shoot into an entire day’s experience. Go out for breakfast together, take care of the shoot, then finish the night with a concert, fancy dinner, or drinks at a favorite bar.
Keep the Poses Simple
Engagement photos are formulaic for a reason. There’s no need to think too far outside of the box with this task, as it really is mainly to serve as a way of informing family and friends about the decision. This means that you’ll have an easier time by keeping your poses simple. If you ever feel stuck on what to do in a shot and your photographer isn’t doing the best job at instructing you, a quick kiss can make for the perfect content. Nothing creates a romantic vibe like a smooch!
Make a Engagement Checklist
Though there won’t be as many details to keep in mind as there will be for your wedding, a checklist can be a huge help when you’re planning out your photoshoot. From details about the shooting location to the time you need to meet your makeup team, having a list of all the things that need to be accomplished will make the entire experience less stressful.
An engagement shoot is a wonderful way to get excited about your choice to tie the knot. As long as you give yourself a little time to prep in advance, you’ll be able to enjoy every minute of this fun task.
Many people envision their wedding day as something magical with clear ideas of what the day will entail, including those who will support them at the altar. Members of the wedding party assume responsibility for helping a couple prepare for their nuptials. They should understand they’ll be helping you kick off this new phase in life. You’ll be asking a lot of these people, so remember these “facts” about those in your wedding party.
The Wedding Party is Not Your Wallet or Purse
It’s fairly common for bridesmaids and groomsmen to be responsible for paying for their attire, whether they’re renting or buying. A best man or maid of honor may have additional duties such as planning a stag and doe party or other prenuptial festivities. Be thoughtful about what the people in your wedding party are spending to participate. Your marriage ceremony shouldn’t be a financial burden to you and your future spouse. It definitely shouldn’t be one to those in your wedding party!
They’re Not Your Servant or Secretary
Your nearest and dearest friends and family members often have good ideas and wisdom, making them excellent resources when planning nuptials. Don’t take advantage of their willingness to help. It’s important to be reasonable when expecting others to accommodate your schedule. They have lives of their own. Inviting them to help you find an outfit or sample cakes is cool. Expecting them to be at your beck and call is not.
They’re Not Mind Readers
You might have a sibling or best friend that knows you really well. While they might have a strong sense of your likes and dislikes, you shouldn’t assume they can read your mind. Clear and constant communication is important when preparing for a marriage ceremony. If you want your bridesmaids or groomsmen to do or not do certain things, say so.
They’re Not Your Dolls
Many Canadian couples like the idea of a themed marriage ceremony and reception. A themed event may call for a particular look for your wedding party, especially when it comes to hair, makeup, and apparel. Remember your loved ones aren’t dolls where you can dramatically change their appearance based on your whims. Asking someone to wear a long-sleeved top to cover up tattoos is one thing. Expecting someone to change their hair color is another. It’s unreasonable to expect others to alter the way they look to please you.
They’re Not Your Subjects
Your nuptials are about you and your spouse. While your groomsmen or bridesmaids want you to be happy, you can’t force them to do things they don’t want to do. For example, if you have a loved one that doesn’t drink, don’t expect them to enjoy a glass of champagne just because it’s time to toast. While the day is one of the most important ones in your life, that doesn’t give you the right to bark orders to those in your wedding party. Respect your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
They’re Not Your Fixers
Despite the best-laid plans, something can go wrong, especially when you’re tying the knot. If a photographer fails to show up, don’t expect the people in your wedding party to “save the day” with a smartphone camera or something equally ridiculous. Mistakes are unfortunate, but you can’t expect your circle to fix everything that doesn’t go according to plan.
Having people who love you enough to be in your wedding party is a blessing. Not everyone has that kind of support, so be grateful for those who can handle reasonable duties as a bridesmaid or a groomsman. Making irrational or unrealistic demands of those around you can turn what should be a dream into a nightmare for loved ones.
Guests who don’t RSVP are the bane of hosts of all kinds of parties, not just wedding receptions. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of wedding guests will RSVP no, while another 60% will RSVP yes. That leaves 20% who won’t respond at all. The reason a guest doesn’t respond isn’t important. Dealing with those non-responders is. Expect to have to call some people on your guest list to find out whether they’re attending or not. Have a plan to minimize your frustration.
Include a Grace Period
Your caterer needs a head count by a certain date. Move your RSVP deadline up about two weeks from that day. This gives you some time to track down those guests who didn’t RSVP. Put some time in your own schedule to handle the situation. You know you’re going to need to deal with non-responsive guests. Planning for it can give you breathing room.
Send Contact Reminders
About a week before the RSVP deadline, send out a reminder by email or text. This gives those folks with good intentions a chance to respond. You should get a few more responses before the deadline. It’s easy to lose track of time and forget to RSVP. Make it as easy as possible to RSVP, either through your wedding website or by responding to the reminder.
Take a Breath
As the deadline gets closer, it’s easy to feel frustrated. Weddings are serious business. Before you start pestering non-responsive guests, shake off those feelings of irritation. Yes, you’re busy and shouldn’t have to track down those guests to get the answers you need. However, your wedding day doesn’t need to be clouded by resentment by you or your guests. Your guests may have busy lives that don’t revolve around your wedding. You don’t know what they’re dealing with. Take a breath and relax.
Make Contact
You and your partner know your guests who haven’t responded. Decide how to make contact with each person on the list. Get help from your wedding party if your list is long. Start by connecting with those who have not responded. If your previous text or email went unanswered, find another way to reach out. Leave a voicemail or meet in person. This is not the time to use a group email or text. Reach out to each guest individually. Emphasize that you’re trying to get a head count for the venue or caterer.
Be Gracious
Instead of yelling at your guests who haven’t responded, take another approach. Guests who don’t respond may be dealing with more than you realize or are embarrassed for not sending in their RSVP. Start by asking if they received your invitation. If they haven’t received it, they don’t even know about the deadline. You want to be able to deal with that situation without making them feel bad.
If they have received the invitation, gently remind them of the RSVP deadline and ask about their intentions. If someone is hesitant, give them a way to bow out. There’s no need to make them feel any worse. You just need a response.
If you have to leave a voicemail, give them another 48 hours to respond. You can say that if you don’t hear from them, you’ll assume they aren’t coming. If you simply can’t get a hold of someone, it’s a pretty good assumption that they won’t attend. Should they respond later, you may just have to be firm in telling them that you won’t have food for them. Maybe they can still attend, depending on the headcount for the venue. Be prepared to handle those situations on an individual basis. Don’t stress too much over non-responsive guests.
For Canadian couples who have decided to tie the knot, the marriage ceremony is one of the most important life events. It requires careful consideration, planning, and preparation, from the day of engagement all the way to the end of the reception. Many couples also anticipate kicking off this new phase of life with a honeymoon. Similar to your wedding, your honeymoon also requires careful planning. You want to start your marriage off on a high note. Here are six things you should not do on your special getaway.
1. Going Without a Plan
Whether you envision lying on a beach somewhere in the sun or taking in the bright lights of a destination city, you need to have a plan. What do you hope to accomplish on your honeymoon? This vacation is a celebration of your union, so it’s important to schedule memorable and romantic activities to make the trip special. Planning your itinerary to the letter is going too far in the other direction, but it’s important to make time for the essential things.
2. Not Having a Budget
One of the worst experiences is going on a trip and learning that you don’t have enough money to do the things you want to do. Discovering you’ve under-budgeted for your honeymoon is quite the drag. Instead of enjoying the time together, you’ll be preoccupied with how much things cost. You shouldn’t blow your finances on a single vacation, so it’s important to choose an experience that’s appropriate for your planned budget. If you can’t afford to splurge now, enjoy a modest vacation and save your funds for a future anniversary.
3. Ignoring Rules, Regulations, and Advisories
Can you imagine arriving at a coastal destination in the middle of a hurricane? It’s unwise to book a trip without researching information about the place. There could be civil unrest that makes the desired destination an unsafe place to travel. Some countries require visitors to get certain vaccines or meet other requirements before traveling. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to planning a vacation. Nothing ruins a honeymoon like being unable to travel.
4. OverpackingOn A Honeymoon
The last thing you or your spouse will want to do is struggle with too much luggage or bags that are stuffed with things you don’t need. Think carefully about your destination. Will you really need an evening outfit every night? Maybe you can do laundry at the resort or vacation home you’ll be staying at. What if you want to bring back souvenirs? There are weight restrictions for luggage on most airlines. Limit your bags to the essentials. Your body will appreciate it.
5. Oversharing Your Honeymoon on Social Media
Some things have to be seen (and shared) to be believed. That breathtaking sunset or main course at a Michelin star restaurant may be Instagram-worthy, but don’t spend all your time sharing every minute of your trip. Remember to be in the moment with your new spouse. You don’t want to miss what’s happening in front of you and between you because you’re posting updates to friends and followers.
6. Not Respecting the Locals and Their Culture
Wherever you go, remember to respect the locals and their customs. Even in locations that thrive on tourism, be mindful of how your actions can inadvertently affect others. What might be acceptable at home in Canada may not be so in other countries. Know before you go.
Your wedding will be one of life’s most important events. A honeymoon that’s every bit as magical as your marriage ceremony is the perfect start to life with the one you love. Keep these tips in mind as you make your plans.
As do many other countries, Canada has its fair share of cultural traditions when it comes to various aspects of living. Weddings are no exception in the Great White North. Canadian wedding traditions pull from the country’s English and French roots, resulting in fun, quirky ideas for your nuptials. From pre-ceremony hijinks to the marriage service and reception, let’s explore these traditions that are unique to Canada. You may be inspired to incorporate some of these into your own celebration.
Before the Wedding
When a couple decides to get married, the events often start before the special day. From engagement parties to bridal showers, it’s very common for the festivities to be held well in advance. Check out the following pre-ceremony Canadian customs:
Trousseau Tea: This older tradition is named for a term that refers to either a dowry, a bride’s outfit or a chest used to collect clothing for young single women in anticipation of marriage. The mother of the bride hosts a party or tea for casual acquaintances and friends who might not be otherwise invited to the marriage ceremony. The bride’s trousseau was put on display, while pastries, confections and other sweet treats were served. This very old practice is mostly obsolete but may be a great idea for the couple with a lot of friends.
Pre-Wedding Fundraiser for the Couple: This pre-celebration social is an opportunity for close friends and family to raise money to support an engaged couple. Names for this event vary across Canada, but some common terms include stag and doe, buck and doe, shag or wedding social. Invitations to this party are often extended to friends who might not be invited to the main event. Guests purchase entry tickets and pay small amounts of money to play games. Proceeds are usually donated to the couple to either pay for the wedding, honeymoon or other costs associated with starting life together.
On the Day Of Wedding
Most Canadian ceremonies will feature a processional involving the couple and members of the bridal party, but consider a procession of the couple and others to the wedding venue. A distinctively Quebecois tradition involves the groom and his loved ones meeting the bride at her residence. The couple then proceeds to the venue with the bride’s parents in a motorcade, wherein some cars are decorated for the wedding. On the way to the church, participants will honk their horns and tell passersby about the nuptials. These bystanders will shout good wishes in response. At the end of the parade, everyone enters the church or venue together.
At the “Afterparty”
Another popular French-Canadian custom takes place at the reception. Unmarried siblings of the bride and groom will perform a silly dance to a special song while wearing loud, colorful and sometimes ugly socks. Reception attendees respond by tossing money to be collected and donated to the newly married couple as a collective gift for starting their life together. Would-be dancers are encouraged to be as silly as possible. In parts of Manitoba, dancing trios perform a Ukrainian dance called the “butterfly” at the reception.
In lieu of presents, some receptions request that guests bring money to donate to the newlyweds. A succinct, discreet way of doing this is by stating “presentation only” on the wedding invitation. While long receptions aren’t strictly Canadian, many celebrations extend well into the early morning of the next day, long after the wedded couple has left the building.
Weddings are a great time to incorporate many customs and cultural elements. For engaged partners in Canada, there are old and current traditions that are worth considering for incorporation into the festivities. From pre- to post-wedding events, ponder these Canadian customs for a fun and memorable way to kick off this new phase of life.
Wedding photos last a lifetime, so most brides and grooms spend a lot of time choosing the right photographer, which is half the battle to make sure you capture your special day on film. The other part is how you look. Not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera, even though many people have grown up in the age of selfies. Here are some tips for getting good wedding photos.
Get Comfortable With Your Photographer
An engagement shoot can help you get to know your wedding photographer and be more comfortable in front of the camera. When you go back through the photos to choose which ones to use, look with a critical eye to see what you didn’t like and which pictures you thought turned out well. Maybe even talk to the photographer about what cues worked better for you and your significant other. Just don’t stop there.
Practice in Front of the Camera
One afternoon with the photographer isn’t going to be enough to get yourself ready for the wedding day photography. Getting the perfect shot doesn’t happen naturally, so you may want to practice with your future spouse and friends and family. Get your wedding party to take candid photos while you’re planning and shopping for the wedding. This can help you become accustomed to the camera so you can act more spontaneously. As you look through these photos, you can learn which side is your best side. Don’t get too caught up in certain poses. You want your wedding photos to be authentic and real.
Angle Your Body
Standing up straight and staring at the camera can make you look rigid and flat. Most experts recommend turning your body 45 degrees to your partner. This creates a flattering angle that is more intimate than just standing next to each other. Your full body isn’t on display, which can help minimize any discomfort in showing your full width.
Check Your Posture
Standing up straight with your shoulders back and chest forward isn’t always a natural position, but it can give you much more confidence when you have good posture. Good posture flatters your frame, so you immediately look much better in photos. Learn to take a deep breath before the photo and release it to relax your body so you don’t look too stiff. Bending one knee while posing is another trick to make you look more relaxed and less stiff in photos.
Learn Where To Put Your Arms
Most people hold their arms very close to their torso in photos. Lifting your arms away from your body can give you a better look in photos. Your shoulders won’t seem as broad when you do this. It can also make your arms appear smaller. Watch how your elbows point. When they point outwards, it can make photos seem stiff. Practice moving your arms while taking photos to have more confidence in what you’re doing.
Ask Your Wedding Party To Practice With You
The bride and groom aren’t the only ones in the wedding photos. If your parents don’t like taking pictures, you’ve got time to help them feel more confident in the photos by working with them. Your flower girl and ring bearer may also need some practice listening to the photographer and learning to keep their eyes open during photos. These practice photos can be memories of their own as you take pictures of your everyday routine leading up to the wedding.
Relax and let your photographer capture the special moments that occur naturally without feeling awkward in front of the camera, and get the wedding photos you’ll be delighted to put on display for years to come.
When a close friend or family member decides to get married, there’s a good chance you may be asked to be in their wedding as a bridesmaid or a groomsman. If it’s a best friend or a close sibling getting hitched, you may be asked to stand next to them as a maid of honor or a best man. In either situation, this is an important responsibility. Members of a bridal or wedding party are expected to contribute time, treasure and talents to the nuptials of a happy couple, and there are some things you should know before committing.
Opting Out Of A Wedding
Before going further, you should understand that being in a wedding party will likely put significant demands on your time and funds, especially as the big day rolls around. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and say yes. However, you should know that you can always say no, and you should do so if you have any doubts about being able to fulfill the role, especially as a maid of honor or best man. If you need time to consider and more details about what is expected of you, it’s best to say something now and not later.
Planning Events
As a bridesmaid or groomsman, you’re expected to be part of a support system for the couple to be wed. This can mean everything from helping to plan events such as a bachelor or bachelorette party to coordinating actual details of the big day. As a part of the bridal party, you’re there to attend to the couple’s needs, which can include helping them stay calm and collected. One classic Canadian event that you may be expected to help organize and plan is a stag and doe party, which serves as a fundraiser to pay for costs associated with the new couple’s life together, including expenses from the ceremony and honeymoon.
Spending Money
Members of a wedding party are often expected to contribute personal funds to help cover various costs. Perhaps the most common expenses arise from wedding fashions. Bridesmaids are often expected to pay for their dresses according to the bride’s preferences. Similarly, groomsmen are usually responsible for renting a tuxedo or purchasing clothes and accessories for the big day. There are a number of expenses that you should take into account if you commit to participating in the ceremony:
Attire, including accessories and shoes
Gifts for the couple at various events
Costs for bachelor/bachelorette events, stag and doe parties, engagement gatherings, bridal showers, etc.
Travel expenses or fees for a destination or remote celebration
You shouldn’t go into debt or experience financial strain from being in the wedding party, so it’s important to ask questions up front before committing.
Helping the Couple Look Their Best
A bride or a groom will look to members of the bridal party to help them get suited and booted for the ceremony. This may include something as simple as helping someone fasten buttons or zippers that are hard to reach or helping tie a bow tie. Get familiar with that YouTube tutorial as soon as possible! Do you know your way around a makeup palette or a set of clippers? The happy couple may have need of special skills that you possess when it comes to putting the finishing touches on their appearance. Again, expectations and requests should be made known well in advance.
Many people consider it an honor to be asked to serve in a wedding, especially as a member of the bridal party. Recognize that you have an important role to fulfill, and if you’re not prepared to make the commitment required, say something right away. The last thing you want to do is leave a loved one hanging and add to the stress of the special day.
Canada has many beautiful locations for a wedding, from historic churches to national parks. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate your wedding while remembering Canada’s heritage, here are a few places you may want to look into.
Métis Crossing As a Wedding Site
The Métis Crossing Cultural Centre in Alberta loves to celebrate family and love. There’s no requirement to be Métis. You can hold your wedding and stay at the lodge, which overlooks the North Saskatchewan River. Guests can enjoy some of the cultural experiences to better understand the Métis. The Cultural Gathering Centre has rustic beams and natural light, so it needs minimal decorations.
Quaaout Lodge & Spa at Talking Rock Golf Resort
The Quaaout Lodge is located in Chase, British Columbia. It sits beside Little Shuswap Lake, so you can have a lakeside wedding. Your guests will enjoy the hospitality of the Little Shuswap Lake Band, which owns the lodge. The resort is open all year long, with appropriate activities for all seasons. The environment is kept in pristine condition, and it’s considered a photographer’s delight. Your wedding pictures will be amazing.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park As a Wedding Site
This national park in Nova Scotia offers two different backdrops, the sea and the mountains. You’ll need a Nova Scotia marriage license, but the scenery will make up for any bureaucratic inconvenience. The park features several locations that are suitable for ceremonies. Trout Brook has a small picnic shelter and a wood stove. It’s the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Have your wedding party hike up the Skyline Trail to a cliff that overlooks the Gulf of St. Lawrence. You may even have some wildlife join you as you say your vows.
Batoche National Historic Wedding Site
Located in Saskatchewan, Batoche is about an hour north of Saskatoon. The site is only open from May to October for visitors, but it’s a lovely location with heritage buildings that are the perfect place for a simple wedding in a romantic place surrounded by history and nature. Guests can enjoy the museum before the wedding to learn more about the Métis and the First Nations.
Fort Malden National Historic Site
Get a glimpse into what life was like in the 19th century at this historical site along the banks of the Detroit River in Ontario. Visitor services are offered May to October. The site welcomes weddings and has many facilities that can be used to host an unforgettable wedding. Your guests will have plenty of places to explore while visiting the area. Amherstburg is a great town with wineries, restaurants and entertainment to keep everyone from getting bored.
Manoir-Papineau National Historic Site
Louis-Joseph Papineau was a historical figure who failed in his rebellion but ultimately led Canada to a responsible government. This beautiful manor house is one of the sites that remembers his legacy. It features many rooms and outbuildings suitable for weddings. The gardens and lawns are lovely places for pictures. Papineau was one of the original Francophone patriots.
The Forks National Historic Site
This site is a National Historic Site of Canada because it has been witness to many events in Canada’s history. Its geographical location at the juncture of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers make it a beautiful location to host a wedding. The amphitheatre can hold up to 120 chairs, but there are other spaces in the nine-acre park.
These locations bring history and nature to your wedding, making it a special celebration for you and your guests. Make sure to check with the facility’s management about wedding guidelines. Unfortunately, Parks Canada, which runs many of these venues, does not allow confetti or rose petals to be thrown at the ceremony. You may have to give up some of your traditions to get heritage.
Though putting together a wedding can be a challenging process, plenty of couples take on the task each year. Naturally, the volume of people tying the knot also makes it easy to understand which issues are most common during the planning process. If you’re currently gathering details for your nuptials, then you may find it useful to review some information surrounding the more common pitfalls you could encounter. The time leading up to your event is going to be hectic, and preliminary considerations can make a world of difference.
Guest List Mistakes
Picking who should be invited to your wedding is a decision that comes down to two people: your partner and you. If you’re allowing anyone else control over this, then you increase the likelihood of running into some serious annoyances later. In the past, it was commonplace for couples to allow older relatives or anyone helping to pay for the wedding to invite a few people to the event. Nowadays, this is not exactly a common tradition. Since weddings cost a lot of money, inviting people you don’t know can put a damper on your joy.
While you might bump heads with your significant other over which guests to invite, you both have equal claim to the list. Though there’s no easy way to handle relatives who are demanding to invite guests of their own, you want to address this issue as early as possible to avoid more complicated problems later.
Entertainment That Fits the Venue
None of the decisions you make in relation to your wedding should exist in a vacuum. While you don’t need to make sure that every detail matches, there are some areas where overlap is key. Your entertainment, for example, should be selected based around things like the acoustics of your venue. If your ceremony will take place outside in an open space, then having a solo acoustic guitarist provide all the music is a great way to guarantee no one hears a single note.
Similarly, you shouldn’t spend a lot of money on a complicated sound system for a DJ if you haven’t checked local noise ordinances. A backyard wedding in the suburbs can easily become a target for the police should enough neighbors call to complain about the celebrations. However, looking over all of the details early allows you the flexibility of picking entertainment that perfectly fits the space where you’ll be getting married.
Major Assumptions With Major Mistakes
Making assumptions about anything while you plan for your wedding is another easy way to find yourself in hot water. For example, many couples create a guest list with the assumption that many people won’t actually be able to attend. Though it is true that you’ll likely have people decline an invitation, you don’t want to build any plans off that assumption. Inviting 200 people and assuming only 150 will come can play out poorly if you find all 200 guests have responded that they’ll be there. Always base decisions on what you know, not what you assume.
The Legal Aspect
This might seem like common sense, but plenty of couples forget to figure out the legal side of marriage in advance. What’s unfortunate about this is that a marriage is not actually binding if any of the legal steps are missed or neglected. To ensure that you’re following the protocol, review the local regulations surrounding marriage. Typically, this will only involve a simple action like determining what paperwork needs to be completed and turned in before the ceremony.
While there’s no way to avoid every possible problem as you plan a wedding, there are a number of mistakes of which to steer clear. Looking over the basics will provide the knowledge needed to make the best choices for your big day.
Honeymoon While it might not get as much attention as the wedding itself, the honeymoon tends to be where the real fun waits for the happy couple. Since you’re probably spending a good chunk of change on getting married, you want to try and save on your travel expenses without sacrificing any of your enjoyment. Though it might be a difficult line to walk, it is far from impossible. Adhere to these smart travel tips and learn how you can maximize your budget while exploring the world as newlyweds.
Book The Honeymoon as Early as Possible
This is not a secret tip so much as it is a rule of thumb to live by, but you absolutely should book early when planning your honeymoon. Most people know this, especially those who tend to travel on any kind of routine basis. The longer you wait to secure your seat on a flight, the more likely it is that the cost of that trip is going to double or triple. Plan early and you will be able to take advantage of the most affordable flights available.
Don’t Feel You Must Schedule Around Your Wedding
The traditional idea of the honeymoon is that it takes place pretty soon after the wedding reception comes to a close. While most couples don’t rush off to the airport as soon as their guests leave the venue, a majority will depart within a day or so of their nuptials. However, there is absolutely no rule saying that you need to follow this path. In fact, there are plenty of scenarios where delaying your trip can save you a nice chunk of change.
If you’re getting married during the summer and plan on honeymooning in a popular vacation spot, then you’ll be paying incredibly high prices at every turn. Delaying your trip by a few months allows you the luxury of visiting this location during a time of year when the crowds are thinning out and prices are returning to a sensible place. Plus, pushing off the honeymoon gives you something fun to look forward to as you enter your first months of marriage.
Review Your Credit Cards and Benefit Programs Booking Your Honeymoon
With so many expenses to take care of with your wedding, you can benefit by putting your honeymoon budget on a credit card. In fact, opening a line of credit specifically for your trip is a great way to travel without feeling concerned about bringing the right amount of cash. Review your options with different cards and benefit programs, as there’s a good chance every purchase you make while abroad can land you points that you can apply toward more exciting perks down the line.
Create Your Own Plan
Visiting a new place can be as exciting as it is scary. In order to feel safe while traveling, many couples will purchase packages that help them experience the local environment from a distance. While this might be fine in some respects, it can also be a bit more expensive. While you don’t need to throw caution to the wind entirely, you can still experience your destination in a more authentic way with some work. Put in the research, and you’ll start to devise a plan so you enjoy your trip in a way that reflects your interests.
Cover Your Bases Back Home
Finally, don’t forget the expenses that are created when you need to leave home for a short period of time. From putting the pets in the care of someone you trust to having a neighbor take in the mail and water the plants, there are some small tasks that can cost you a little bit of money. Again, planning early can help you find the best rates on all of these services.
Your honeymoon is a chance to get away and have an adventure with your new spouse. By creating a budget-conscious plan, you can get more out of your experience.
After you’ve made the decision to get engaged, there are a bunch of steps you will need to take before you get married. Some of the earliest choices couples make are when and how to make the announcement. A more popular trend has been to schedule an engagement shoot. Couples can take a selection of photos that can be used as the image on a card or social media post. Before you book your photographer, take a look at these tips on what to expect and how to plan for the best possible experience.
Comfort Should Take Precedence
Typically, engagement photos are taken outdoors. There’s something about the bright, airy feeling created by natural lighting that works ideally for a romantic gesture like an engagement announcement. While being outside does offer a ton of options for captivating and dynamic shots, it also means that you will be dealing with all of the irritations of the outdoors. To enjoy your day, a top priority should be your comfort.
Engagement In Style
It goes without saying you want to look your best for your photos. However, putting on an outfit that goes against the seasonal temperature, can easily become ruined by dirt is an easy way to turn a fun experience into a burden. There’s no need to suffer for this shoot, so be sure to find a way to blend style and comfort.
Hire Experts for Hair and Makeup
Bringing a professional photographer on board is an easy decision for your shoot. To make the process even smoother, consider going a step farther and hiring experts for hair and makeup. When you’ve got people with experience handling your look, there are fewer items on your to-do list to stress over before the day arrives. Plus, this can be a fun way to test out options for your wedding hair and makeup needs. If you love the abilities of the people you use, then you can book them right away.
Have Fun With the Experience
There are going to be plenty of moments where you feel overwhelmed as you plan the details of your big day. The engagement shoot, on the other hand, is your chance to just relax and have some fun. There’s no pressure, only a chance to capture exactly how happy you are about this milestone moment. Many couples take things to the next level by turning the shoot into an entire day’s experience. Go out for breakfast together, take care of the shoot, then finish the night with a concert, fancy dinner, or drinks at a favorite bar.
Keep the Poses Simple
Engagement photos are formulaic for a reason. There’s no need to think too far outside of the box with this task, as it really is mainly to serve as a way of informing family and friends about the decision. This means that you’ll have an easier time by keeping your poses simple. If you ever feel stuck on what to do in a shot and your photographer isn’t doing the best job at instructing you, a quick kiss can make for the perfect content. Nothing creates a romantic vibe like a smooch!
Make a Engagement Checklist
Though there won’t be as many details to keep in mind as there will be for your wedding, a checklist can be a huge help when you’re planning out your photoshoot. From details about the shooting location to the time you need to meet your makeup team, having a list of all the things that need to be accomplished will make the entire experience less stressful.
An engagement shoot is a wonderful way to get excited about your choice to tie the knot. As long as you give yourself a little time to prep in advance, you’ll be able to enjoy every minute of this fun task.
Many people envision their wedding day as something magical with clear ideas of what the day will entail, including those who will support them at the altar. Members of the wedding party assume responsibility for helping a couple prepare for their nuptials. They should understand they’ll be helping you kick off this new phase in life. You’ll be asking a lot of these people, so remember these “facts” about those in your wedding party.
The Wedding Party is Not Your Wallet or Purse
It’s fairly common for bridesmaids and groomsmen to be responsible for paying for their attire, whether they’re renting or buying. A best man or maid of honor may have additional duties such as planning a stag and doe party or other prenuptial festivities. Be thoughtful about what the people in your wedding party are spending to participate. Your marriage ceremony shouldn’t be a financial burden to you and your future spouse. It definitely shouldn’t be one to those in your wedding party!
They’re Not Your Servant or Secretary
Your nearest and dearest friends and family members often have good ideas and wisdom, making them excellent resources when planning nuptials. Don’t take advantage of their willingness to help. It’s important to be reasonable when expecting others to accommodate your schedule. They have lives of their own. Inviting them to help you find an outfit or sample cakes is cool. Expecting them to be at your beck and call is not.
They’re Not Mind Readers
You might have a sibling or best friend that knows you really well. While they might have a strong sense of your likes and dislikes, you shouldn’t assume they can read your mind. Clear and constant communication is important when preparing for a marriage ceremony. If you want your bridesmaids or groomsmen to do or not do certain things, say so.
They’re Not Your Dolls
Many Canadian couples like the idea of a themed marriage ceremony and reception. A themed event may call for a particular look for your wedding party, especially when it comes to hair, makeup, and apparel. Remember your loved ones aren’t dolls where you can dramatically change their appearance based on your whims. Asking someone to wear a long-sleeved top to cover up tattoos is one thing. Expecting someone to change their hair color is another. It’s unreasonable to expect others to alter the way they look to please you.
They’re Not Your Subjects
Your nuptials are about you and your spouse. While your groomsmen or bridesmaids want you to be happy, you can’t force them to do things they don’t want to do. For example, if you have a loved one that doesn’t drink, don’t expect them to enjoy a glass of champagne just because it’s time to toast. While the day is one of the most important ones in your life, that doesn’t give you the right to bark orders to those in your wedding party. Respect your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
They’re Not Your Fixers
Despite the best-laid plans, something can go wrong, especially when you’re tying the knot. If a photographer fails to show up, don’t expect the people in your wedding party to “save the day” with a smartphone camera or something equally ridiculous. Mistakes are unfortunate, but you can’t expect your circle to fix everything that doesn’t go according to plan.
Having people who love you enough to be in your wedding party is a blessing. Not everyone has that kind of support, so be grateful for those who can handle reasonable duties as a bridesmaid or a groomsman. Making irrational or unrealistic demands of those around you can turn what should be a dream into a nightmare for loved ones.
Guests who don’t RSVP are the bane of hosts of all kinds of parties, not just wedding receptions. Some experts estimate that up to 20% of wedding guests will RSVP no, while another 60% will RSVP yes. That leaves 20% who won’t respond at all. The reason a guest doesn’t respond isn’t important. Dealing with those non-responders is. Expect to have to call some people on your guest list to find out whether they’re attending or not. Have a plan to minimize your frustration.
Include a Grace Period
Your caterer needs a head count by a certain date. Move your RSVP deadline up about two weeks from that day. This gives you some time to track down those guests who didn’t RSVP. Put some time in your own schedule to handle the situation. You know you’re going to need to deal with non-responsive guests. Planning for it can give you breathing room.
Send Contact Reminders
About a week before the RSVP deadline, send out a reminder by email or text. This gives those folks with good intentions a chance to respond. You should get a few more responses before the deadline. It’s easy to lose track of time and forget to RSVP. Make it as easy as possible to RSVP, either through your wedding website or by responding to the reminder.
Take a Breath
As the deadline gets closer, it’s easy to feel frustrated. Weddings are serious business. Before you start pestering non-responsive guests, shake off those feelings of irritation. Yes, you’re busy and shouldn’t have to track down those guests to get the answers you need. However, your wedding day doesn’t need to be clouded by resentment by you or your guests. Your guests may have busy lives that don’t revolve around your wedding. You don’t know what they’re dealing with. Take a breath and relax.
Make Contact
You and your partner know your guests who haven’t responded. Decide how to make contact with each person on the list. Get help from your wedding party if your list is long. Start by connecting with those who have not responded. If your previous text or email went unanswered, find another way to reach out. Leave a voicemail or meet in person. This is not the time to use a group email or text. Reach out to each guest individually. Emphasize that you’re trying to get a head count for the venue or caterer.
Be Gracious
Instead of yelling at your guests who haven’t responded, take another approach. Guests who don’t respond may be dealing with more than you realize or are embarrassed for not sending in their RSVP. Start by asking if they received your invitation. If they haven’t received it, they don’t even know about the deadline. You want to be able to deal with that situation without making them feel bad.
If they have received the invitation, gently remind them of the RSVP deadline and ask about their intentions. If someone is hesitant, give them a way to bow out. There’s no need to make them feel any worse. You just need a response.
If you have to leave a voicemail, give them another 48 hours to respond. You can say that if you don’t hear from them, you’ll assume they aren’t coming. If you simply can’t get a hold of someone, it’s a pretty good assumption that they won’t attend. Should they respond later, you may just have to be firm in telling them that you won’t have food for them. Maybe they can still attend, depending on the headcount for the venue. Be prepared to handle those situations on an individual basis. Don’t stress too much over non-responsive guests.
For Canadian couples who have decided to tie the knot, the marriage ceremony is one of the most important life events. It requires careful consideration, planning, and preparation, from the day of engagement all the way to the end of the reception. Many couples also anticipate kicking off this new phase of life with a honeymoon. Similar to your wedding, your honeymoon also requires careful planning. You want to start your marriage off on a high note. Here are six things you should not do on your special getaway.
1. Going Without a Plan
Whether you envision lying on a beach somewhere in the sun or taking in the bright lights of a destination city, you need to have a plan. What do you hope to accomplish on your honeymoon? This vacation is a celebration of your union, so it’s important to schedule memorable and romantic activities to make the trip special. Planning your itinerary to the letter is going too far in the other direction, but it’s important to make time for the essential things.
2. Not Having a Budget
One of the worst experiences is going on a trip and learning that you don’t have enough money to do the things you want to do. Discovering you’ve under-budgeted for your honeymoon is quite the drag. Instead of enjoying the time together, you’ll be preoccupied with how much things cost. You shouldn’t blow your finances on a single vacation, so it’s important to choose an experience that’s appropriate for your planned budget. If you can’t afford to splurge now, enjoy a modest vacation and save your funds for a future anniversary.
3. Ignoring Rules, Regulations, and Advisories
Can you imagine arriving at a coastal destination in the middle of a hurricane? It’s unwise to book a trip without researching information about the place. There could be civil unrest that makes the desired destination an unsafe place to travel. Some countries require visitors to get certain vaccines or meet other requirements before traveling. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to planning a vacation. Nothing ruins a honeymoon like being unable to travel.
4. OverpackingOn A Honeymoon
The last thing you or your spouse will want to do is struggle with too much luggage or bags that are stuffed with things you don’t need. Think carefully about your destination. Will you really need an evening outfit every night? Maybe you can do laundry at the resort or vacation home you’ll be staying at. What if you want to bring back souvenirs? There are weight restrictions for luggage on most airlines. Limit your bags to the essentials. Your body will appreciate it.
5. Oversharing Your Honeymoon on Social Media
Some things have to be seen (and shared) to be believed. That breathtaking sunset or main course at a Michelin star restaurant may be Instagram-worthy, but don’t spend all your time sharing every minute of your trip. Remember to be in the moment with your new spouse. You don’t want to miss what’s happening in front of you and between you because you’re posting updates to friends and followers.
6. Not Respecting the Locals and Their Culture
Wherever you go, remember to respect the locals and their customs. Even in locations that thrive on tourism, be mindful of how your actions can inadvertently affect others. What might be acceptable at home in Canada may not be so in other countries. Know before you go.
Your wedding will be one of life’s most important events. A honeymoon that’s every bit as magical as your marriage ceremony is the perfect start to life with the one you love. Keep these tips in mind as you make your plans.
As do many other countries, Canada has its fair share of cultural traditions when it comes to various aspects of living. Weddings are no exception in the Great White North. Canadian wedding traditions pull from the country’s English and French roots, resulting in fun, quirky ideas for your nuptials. From pre-ceremony hijinks to the marriage service and reception, let’s explore these traditions that are unique to Canada. You may be inspired to incorporate some of these into your own celebration.
Before the Wedding
When a couple decides to get married, the events often start before the special day. From engagement parties to bridal showers, it’s very common for the festivities to be held well in advance. Check out the following pre-ceremony Canadian customs:
Trousseau Tea: This older tradition is named for a term that refers to either a dowry, a bride’s outfit or a chest used to collect clothing for young single women in anticipation of marriage. The mother of the bride hosts a party or tea for casual acquaintances and friends who might not be otherwise invited to the marriage ceremony. The bride’s trousseau was put on display, while pastries, confections and other sweet treats were served. This very old practice is mostly obsolete but may be a great idea for the couple with a lot of friends.
Pre-Wedding Fundraiser for the Couple: This pre-celebration social is an opportunity for close friends and family to raise money to support an engaged couple. Names for this event vary across Canada, but some common terms include stag and doe, buck and doe, shag or wedding social. Invitations to this party are often extended to friends who might not be invited to the main event. Guests purchase entry tickets and pay small amounts of money to play games. Proceeds are usually donated to the couple to either pay for the wedding, honeymoon or other costs associated with starting life together.
On the Day Of Wedding
Most Canadian ceremonies will feature a processional involving the couple and members of the bridal party, but consider a procession of the couple and others to the wedding venue. A distinctively Quebecois tradition involves the groom and his loved ones meeting the bride at her residence. The couple then proceeds to the venue with the bride’s parents in a motorcade, wherein some cars are decorated for the wedding. On the way to the church, participants will honk their horns and tell passersby about the nuptials. These bystanders will shout good wishes in response. At the end of the parade, everyone enters the church or venue together.
At the “Afterparty”
Another popular French-Canadian custom takes place at the reception. Unmarried siblings of the bride and groom will perform a silly dance to a special song while wearing loud, colorful and sometimes ugly socks. Reception attendees respond by tossing money to be collected and donated to the newly married couple as a collective gift for starting their life together. Would-be dancers are encouraged to be as silly as possible. In parts of Manitoba, dancing trios perform a Ukrainian dance called the “butterfly” at the reception.
In lieu of presents, some receptions request that guests bring money to donate to the newlyweds. A succinct, discreet way of doing this is by stating “presentation only” on the wedding invitation. While long receptions aren’t strictly Canadian, many celebrations extend well into the early morning of the next day, long after the wedded couple has left the building.
Weddings are a great time to incorporate many customs and cultural elements. For engaged partners in Canada, there are old and current traditions that are worth considering for incorporation into the festivities. From pre- to post-wedding events, ponder these Canadian customs for a fun and memorable way to kick off this new phase of life.
Wedding photos last a lifetime, so most brides and grooms spend a lot of time choosing the right photographer, which is half the battle to make sure you capture your special day on film. The other part is how you look. Not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera, even though many people have grown up in the age of selfies. Here are some tips for getting good wedding photos.
Get Comfortable With Your Photographer
An engagement shoot can help you get to know your wedding photographer and be more comfortable in front of the camera. When you go back through the photos to choose which ones to use, look with a critical eye to see what you didn’t like and which pictures you thought turned out well. Maybe even talk to the photographer about what cues worked better for you and your significant other. Just don’t stop there.
Practice in Front of the Camera
One afternoon with the photographer isn’t going to be enough to get yourself ready for the wedding day photography. Getting the perfect shot doesn’t happen naturally, so you may want to practice with your future spouse and friends and family. Get your wedding party to take candid photos while you’re planning and shopping for the wedding. This can help you become accustomed to the camera so you can act more spontaneously. As you look through these photos, you can learn which side is your best side. Don’t get too caught up in certain poses. You want your wedding photos to be authentic and real.
Angle Your Body
Standing up straight and staring at the camera can make you look rigid and flat. Most experts recommend turning your body 45 degrees to your partner. This creates a flattering angle that is more intimate than just standing next to each other. Your full body isn’t on display, which can help minimize any discomfort in showing your full width.
Check Your Posture
Standing up straight with your shoulders back and chest forward isn’t always a natural position, but it can give you much more confidence when you have good posture. Good posture flatters your frame, so you immediately look much better in photos. Learn to take a deep breath before the photo and release it to relax your body so you don’t look too stiff. Bending one knee while posing is another trick to make you look more relaxed and less stiff in photos.
Learn Where To Put Your Arms
Most people hold their arms very close to their torso in photos. Lifting your arms away from your body can give you a better look in photos. Your shoulders won’t seem as broad when you do this. It can also make your arms appear smaller. Watch how your elbows point. When they point outwards, it can make photos seem stiff. Practice moving your arms while taking photos to have more confidence in what you’re doing.
Ask Your Wedding Party To Practice With You
The bride and groom aren’t the only ones in the wedding photos. If your parents don’t like taking pictures, you’ve got time to help them feel more confident in the photos by working with them. Your flower girl and ring bearer may also need some practice listening to the photographer and learning to keep their eyes open during photos. These practice photos can be memories of their own as you take pictures of your everyday routine leading up to the wedding.
Relax and let your photographer capture the special moments that occur naturally without feeling awkward in front of the camera, and get the wedding photos you’ll be delighted to put on display for years to come.
When a close friend or family member decides to get married, there’s a good chance you may be asked to be in their wedding as a bridesmaid or a groomsman. If it’s a best friend or a close sibling getting hitched, you may be asked to stand next to them as a maid of honor or a best man. In either situation, this is an important responsibility. Members of a bridal or wedding party are expected to contribute time, treasure and talents to the nuptials of a happy couple, and there are some things you should know before committing.
Opting Out Of A Wedding
Before going further, you should understand that being in a wedding party will likely put significant demands on your time and funds, especially as the big day rolls around. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and say yes. However, you should know that you can always say no, and you should do so if you have any doubts about being able to fulfill the role, especially as a maid of honor or best man. If you need time to consider and more details about what is expected of you, it’s best to say something now and not later.
Planning Events
As a bridesmaid or groomsman, you’re expected to be part of a support system for the couple to be wed. This can mean everything from helping to plan events such as a bachelor or bachelorette party to coordinating actual details of the big day. As a part of the bridal party, you’re there to attend to the couple’s needs, which can include helping them stay calm and collected. One classic Canadian event that you may be expected to help organize and plan is a stag and doe party, which serves as a fundraiser to pay for costs associated with the new couple’s life together, including expenses from the ceremony and honeymoon.
Spending Money
Members of a wedding party are often expected to contribute personal funds to help cover various costs. Perhaps the most common expenses arise from wedding fashions. Bridesmaids are often expected to pay for their dresses according to the bride’s preferences. Similarly, groomsmen are usually responsible for renting a tuxedo or purchasing clothes and accessories for the big day. There are a number of expenses that you should take into account if you commit to participating in the ceremony:
Attire, including accessories and shoes
Gifts for the couple at various events
Costs for bachelor/bachelorette events, stag and doe parties, engagement gatherings, bridal showers, etc.
Travel expenses or fees for a destination or remote celebration
You shouldn’t go into debt or experience financial strain from being in the wedding party, so it’s important to ask questions up front before committing.
Helping the Couple Look Their Best
A bride or a groom will look to members of the bridal party to help them get suited and booted for the ceremony. This may include something as simple as helping someone fasten buttons or zippers that are hard to reach or helping tie a bow tie. Get familiar with that YouTube tutorial as soon as possible! Do you know your way around a makeup palette or a set of clippers? The happy couple may have need of special skills that you possess when it comes to putting the finishing touches on their appearance. Again, expectations and requests should be made known well in advance.
Many people consider it an honor to be asked to serve in a wedding, especially as a member of the bridal party. Recognize that you have an important role to fulfill, and if you’re not prepared to make the commitment required, say something right away. The last thing you want to do is leave a loved one hanging and add to the stress of the special day.
Canada has many beautiful locations for a wedding, from historic churches to national parks. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate your wedding while remembering Canada’s heritage, here are a few places you may want to look into.
Métis Crossing As a Wedding Site
The Métis Crossing Cultural Centre in Alberta loves to celebrate family and love. There’s no requirement to be Métis. You can hold your wedding and stay at the lodge, which overlooks the North Saskatchewan River. Guests can enjoy some of the cultural experiences to better understand the Métis. The Cultural Gathering Centre has rustic beams and natural light, so it needs minimal decorations.
Quaaout Lodge & Spa at Talking Rock Golf Resort
The Quaaout Lodge is located in Chase, British Columbia. It sits beside Little Shuswap Lake, so you can have a lakeside wedding. Your guests will enjoy the hospitality of the Little Shuswap Lake Band, which owns the lodge. The resort is open all year long, with appropriate activities for all seasons. The environment is kept in pristine condition, and it’s considered a photographer’s delight. Your wedding pictures will be amazing.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park As a Wedding Site
This national park in Nova Scotia offers two different backdrops, the sea and the mountains. You’ll need a Nova Scotia marriage license, but the scenery will make up for any bureaucratic inconvenience. The park features several locations that are suitable for ceremonies. Trout Brook has a small picnic shelter and a wood stove. It’s the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Have your wedding party hike up the Skyline Trail to a cliff that overlooks the Gulf of St. Lawrence. You may even have some wildlife join you as you say your vows.
Batoche National Historic Wedding Site
Located in Saskatchewan, Batoche is about an hour north of Saskatoon. The site is only open from May to October for visitors, but it’s a lovely location with heritage buildings that are the perfect place for a simple wedding in a romantic place surrounded by history and nature. Guests can enjoy the museum before the wedding to learn more about the Métis and the First Nations.
Fort Malden National Historic Site
Get a glimpse into what life was like in the 19th century at this historical site along the banks of the Detroit River in Ontario. Visitor services are offered May to October. The site welcomes weddings and has many facilities that can be used to host an unforgettable wedding. Your guests will have plenty of places to explore while visiting the area. Amherstburg is a great town with wineries, restaurants and entertainment to keep everyone from getting bored.
Manoir-Papineau National Historic Site
Louis-Joseph Papineau was a historical figure who failed in his rebellion but ultimately led Canada to a responsible government. This beautiful manor house is one of the sites that remembers his legacy. It features many rooms and outbuildings suitable for weddings. The gardens and lawns are lovely places for pictures. Papineau was one of the original Francophone patriots.
The Forks National Historic Site
This site is a National Historic Site of Canada because it has been witness to many events in Canada’s history. Its geographical location at the juncture of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers make it a beautiful location to host a wedding. The amphitheatre can hold up to 120 chairs, but there are other spaces in the nine-acre park.
These locations bring history and nature to your wedding, making it a special celebration for you and your guests. Make sure to check with the facility’s management about wedding guidelines. Unfortunately, Parks Canada, which runs many of these venues, does not allow confetti or rose petals to be thrown at the ceremony. You may have to give up some of your traditions to get heritage.
Though putting together a wedding can be a challenging process, plenty of couples take on the task each year. Naturally, the volume of people tying the knot also makes it easy to understand which issues are most common during the planning process. If you’re currently gathering details for your nuptials, then you may find it useful to review some information surrounding the more common pitfalls you could encounter. The time leading up to your event is going to be hectic, and preliminary considerations can make a world of difference.
Guest List Mistakes
Picking who should be invited to your wedding is a decision that comes down to two people: your partner and you. If you’re allowing anyone else control over this, then you increase the likelihood of running into some serious annoyances later. In the past, it was commonplace for couples to allow older relatives or anyone helping to pay for the wedding to invite a few people to the event. Nowadays, this is not exactly a common tradition. Since weddings cost a lot of money, inviting people you don’t know can put a damper on your joy.
While you might bump heads with your significant other over which guests to invite, you both have equal claim to the list. Though there’s no easy way to handle relatives who are demanding to invite guests of their own, you want to address this issue as early as possible to avoid more complicated problems later.
Entertainment That Fits the Venue
None of the decisions you make in relation to your wedding should exist in a vacuum. While you don’t need to make sure that every detail matches, there are some areas where overlap is key. Your entertainment, for example, should be selected based around things like the acoustics of your venue. If your ceremony will take place outside in an open space, then having a solo acoustic guitarist provide all the music is a great way to guarantee no one hears a single note.
Similarly, you shouldn’t spend a lot of money on a complicated sound system for a DJ if you haven’t checked local noise ordinances. A backyard wedding in the suburbs can easily become a target for the police should enough neighbors call to complain about the celebrations. However, looking over all of the details early allows you the flexibility of picking entertainment that perfectly fits the space where you’ll be getting married.
Major Assumptions With Major Mistakes
Making assumptions about anything while you plan for your wedding is another easy way to find yourself in hot water. For example, many couples create a guest list with the assumption that many people won’t actually be able to attend. Though it is true that you’ll likely have people decline an invitation, you don’t want to build any plans off that assumption. Inviting 200 people and assuming only 150 will come can play out poorly if you find all 200 guests have responded that they’ll be there. Always base decisions on what you know, not what you assume.
The Legal Aspect
This might seem like common sense, but plenty of couples forget to figure out the legal side of marriage in advance. What’s unfortunate about this is that a marriage is not actually binding if any of the legal steps are missed or neglected. To ensure that you’re following the protocol, review the local regulations surrounding marriage. Typically, this will only involve a simple action like determining what paperwork needs to be completed and turned in before the ceremony.
While there’s no way to avoid every possible problem as you plan a wedding, there are a number of mistakes of which to steer clear. Looking over the basics will provide the knowledge needed to make the best choices for your big day.
Honeymoon While it might not get as much attention as the wedding itself, the honeymoon tends to be where the real fun waits for the happy couple. Since you’re probably spending a good chunk of change on getting married, you want to try and save on your travel expenses without sacrificing any of your enjoyment. Though it might be a difficult line to walk, it is far from impossible. Adhere to these smart travel tips and learn how you can maximize your budget while exploring the world as newlyweds.
Book The Honeymoon as Early as Possible
This is not a secret tip so much as it is a rule of thumb to live by, but you absolutely should book early when planning your honeymoon. Most people know this, especially those who tend to travel on any kind of routine basis. The longer you wait to secure your seat on a flight, the more likely it is that the cost of that trip is going to double or triple. Plan early and you will be able to take advantage of the most affordable flights available.
Don’t Feel You Must Schedule Around Your Wedding
The traditional idea of the honeymoon is that it takes place pretty soon after the wedding reception comes to a close. While most couples don’t rush off to the airport as soon as their guests leave the venue, a majority will depart within a day or so of their nuptials. However, there is absolutely no rule saying that you need to follow this path. In fact, there are plenty of scenarios where delaying your trip can save you a nice chunk of change.
If you’re getting married during the summer and plan on honeymooning in a popular vacation spot, then you’ll be paying incredibly high prices at every turn. Delaying your trip by a few months allows you the luxury of visiting this location during a time of year when the crowds are thinning out and prices are returning to a sensible place. Plus, pushing off the honeymoon gives you something fun to look forward to as you enter your first months of marriage.
Review Your Credit Cards and Benefit Programs Booking Your Honeymoon
With so many expenses to take care of with your wedding, you can benefit by putting your honeymoon budget on a credit card. In fact, opening a line of credit specifically for your trip is a great way to travel without feeling concerned about bringing the right amount of cash. Review your options with different cards and benefit programs, as there’s a good chance every purchase you make while abroad can land you points that you can apply toward more exciting perks down the line.
Create Your Own Plan
Visiting a new place can be as exciting as it is scary. In order to feel safe while traveling, many couples will purchase packages that help them experience the local environment from a distance. While this might be fine in some respects, it can also be a bit more expensive. While you don’t need to throw caution to the wind entirely, you can still experience your destination in a more authentic way with some work. Put in the research, and you’ll start to devise a plan so you enjoy your trip in a way that reflects your interests.
Cover Your Bases Back Home
Finally, don’t forget the expenses that are created when you need to leave home for a short period of time. From putting the pets in the care of someone you trust to having a neighbor take in the mail and water the plants, there are some small tasks that can cost you a little bit of money. Again, planning early can help you find the best rates on all of these services.
Your honeymoon is a chance to get away and have an adventure with your new spouse. By creating a budget-conscious plan, you can get more out of your experience.
