When it comes to your big day, you might think you’ve got absolutely everything under control. You’ve read every bridal magazine and every Pinterest article you can get your virtual hands on, but it’s wise to be prepared. Not everything is going to be smooth sailing from the word go and you should expect a few bumps in the road. But don’t worry, we’re here to give you a heads up on a few unexpected moments that might come hurtling your way.
1. It can be harder than you think
Of course, this is one of the happiest days of your life and we would never want to spoil that for you, but it’s something that we believe you need to hear. Planning a wedding can be a lot harder than you think, and there’s probably a lot more to do than you originally thought of. Not only will you have to sit there with a calculator (more on this later), you may have to get hands-on with some DIY, along with a little lifting.
It may not be a walk in the park, but we promise it’ll all be worth it.
2. Overestimate your budget
Remember we talked about sitting down with a calculator? Well you can spend as much time and effort as you want on spreadsheets and calculating exact costs, but we’re going to recommend that you overestimate the budget that you have available. The last thing you want is to end up borrowing or in debt because you didn’t plan properly.
Start off by thinking about your priorities; what means the most to you in the long run? Is it having a stunning wedding venue, an expensive photographer or the designer dress? Or perhaps it’s something else altogether. Splurge on the things that matter most to you and cut back your spending on what you can live without.
Another thing to consider is that you may come across some additional costs in the run-up to the big day. While you may have the venue and dress prices figured out, hidden and unexpected costs are incredibly common. These could include delivery fees, decorations for pre-wedding celebrations or rehearsal dinners, additional meals or extra stationery. And don’t be afraid to enquire about any “extra” costs that have the potential to rear their heads.
3. The emotions will come
Stress, happiness, anger, and everything in between. As you start to put the planning wheels in motion, don’t be surprised if every emotion on the spectrum starts to hit you like a freight train. You might consider yourself the most stable person on the planet, but one day the florist may tell you that peonies aren’t in season and you can find yourself dissolving into tears. Even if you didn’t want peonies in the first place.
Don’t be surprised if you burst into tears at the sight of yourself in your dress. Or if you get angry with your mother because she suggests a sweetheart neckline instead of a one-shoulder strap. Try not to worry; it’s all part of the build-up. You just have to ride it out, let the emotions come forth, and look forward to the day itself.
4. The groom will surprise you
Some grooms prefer to be involved in every little detail about your wedding. Others prefer to stay away and just show up on the day at the end of the aisle. Wherever you think your groom lies, we guarantee he’ll shock you.
Before you clap your hands with glee, this may swing in either direction. First of all, he may not give two hoots about something you are incredibly passionate about, like the seating plan. But on the other hand, it may come out that he is very invested in something completely different, like the invitations.
Remember that it’s his big day too, so even though you may think that he won’t be interested, be sure to involve him. If he’s happy to go with your suggestion then you have your answer, but most grooms won’t appreciate feeling sidelined on one of the biggest days of their lives.
5. ‘Casual’ can be just as stressful
You can be the most low-maintenance bride in the world, but that doesn’t mean your wedding won’t bring its fair share of headaches. You don’t have to have specialist lace flown in from Europe, wear a couture gown or hire a cordon bleu chef for the stresses to hit; chances are they’ll hit you regardless. It’s just part of planning a wedding. A dose of realisation coupled with panic is often the culprit, but with a generous helping of planning and a class A support team by your side, and you’ll handle things just fine.
6. It’ll be all you talk about
We’ve all been in one of those conversations when someone on the other side just won’t stop talking about ‘insert big life-changing event here’. Whether it’s an engagement, a house move or a new baby, we’ve all been the one to roll their eyes and nod along. And we’ll bet you’ll be horrified if we tell you that you’ll probably be involved in some role reversal in the weeks and months leading up to your special day.
We understand that it’s important and that you’re excited; so will everyone else around you. And while you may not be able to press pause on the wedding chatter entirely, why not share the love? Give your closest friends and relatives a break and take the conversation elsewhere to save them from wedding burnout. And make sure you ask what they’re up to every once in a while. Trust us, they’ll appreciate it.
Category: Blog