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Do You Really Want Children In Your Wedding?

  • September 12, 2009 at 11:30 pm

Of course you do! My own kids did also when they got married. Children can add such a sweet touch to the ceremony, just as much as those sweet little edible wedding favors. However, the day can be a disaster without some much needed preparation.

When it came time for my oldest daughter to get married, her youngest sister was only 3 years old and was the flower girl. She wanted her little gown to emulate her bridal gown. It was difficult, but we accomplished it.

She looked adorable and the rehearsal went very well, so we thought we were free and clear. Not true! She was getting antsy once the wedding ceremony kicked in. We fed her, played games with her, held her, did everything we could to keep her from making a scene, but a kid is a kid. So the bridal party began walking down this VERY long aisle as the wedding processional music began. The last one to walk down the aisle before bride was my youngest daughter, the hungry, miserable, and tired 3 year old. When it was her turn to go, she refused and screamed loud right there in the church. When we had one of the younger boys help her down the aisle, she began to scream even louder and threw herself on the floor in a mini tantrum, crying for me. Well, there went the poise of the mother of the bride and she never did walk down the aisle. We were never able to get her in those pictures. The entire church was stressed and my daughter, the bride, was late walking down the aisle. Now what age should you consider allowing children to join the bridal party?

So besides eliminating those unique wedding favors, do you decide to eliminate the really little children? I wouldn’t, because children can be a precious and wonderful addition to any wedding. You just have to know the rules when dealing with kids and you’ll be okay.

If it’s a night wedding, a nap would be very wise for them. Make sure they get lots of sleep. During the rehearsal, make sure they rehearse their part several times more than the adults. If the adults are having a problem remembering what to do, just think about what that little one is going through. Also, if the child is under 6 years old, be sure to have an older child or adult that is in the wedding party walk with them. I’ve learned through experience, that it is an insurance policy much like those inexpensive wedding favors. Another great tip is to put a piece of tape on the floor where the child is to stand after walking down the aisle. They will feel more assured and secure and so will you!

You young ones will be OK if you follow the rules and be aware of their age. They usually tend to be forgotten in the middle of the craziness of the day. Don’t worry, if you forget them, and they’ll make sure their presence is known!

What Can You Find At A Bridal Expo That You Really Can’t Without It?

  • September 12, 2009 at 6:19 pm

Wedding expos are a fantastic way to get a feel for what is happening in weddings with gowns, venues, transportation, flowers, and everything bridal. You are also given free copies of many wedding magazines as well as secure large discounts from vendors if you book at the show. And they might even have some really good, cheap wedding favors.

But many couples have expressed being overwhelmed and that the money they spent for the tickets was for nothing. But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you enter the doors of the expo prepared, you will gain much knowledge and even a freebie or two. Also, check out the wedding favors. Not always, but sometimes you can find some really unique wedding favors.

First of all, remember that all wedding shows are not created equal. And many times, the smaller shows can actually be more valuable to you than the larger ones. The reason for this is that they are more intimate so there are less couples browsing. Because there are less people, there is more one on one with vendors and they are more willing to give even greater discounts on items like wedding favors.

But, even though that is all true, if you know people that have been to the larger expos, ask them their opinions. Many people prefer these because of the huge amount of vendors and ability to stay more anonymous. It’s totally a personal preference. Just make sure that you get some reviews and opinions on the shows before you go.

Secondly, make sure you know why you are going. What is it that you are looking to accomplish? If you already have your florist, don’t spend time re-evaluating if you made the right decision or not, thumbing through floral magazines. Move on. Get information regarding the areas you don’t have secured yet. Remember, the most important area to book is your venue. If you don’t have that yet, this is a perfect time to check into all the vendors in your area. Then, move on from there. Just be prepared with a list of what you want to accomplish before you get there.

Many expos have bridal gown fashion shows. If you already have your gown, do not watch this. Instead, take the time when everyone else is there, to have some time with vendors while it isn’t as crowded. Also, remember that the first hour in the morning and the last couple of hours at night is the least crowded time for these expos.

Lastly, bring a pad and pen to make notes about different vendors. And don’t forget to bring either an electronic device or calendar to make appointments. What is best is to have a folder with a pocket to hold all the business cards. Always put relevant information on the back of each card as you speak to the vendor. And remember to get the name of the person you’re speaking to.

Wedding expos can be invaluable to a newly engaged couple. But they also can be a distraction. Remember why you are there. You are on a mission. If you keep that in mind and do your homework, that day could translate into saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.


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