Although your wedding day is about the union between you and your fiancé and celebrating your love for one another, your guests play an important role in that celebration. You need to communicate a significant amount of information to your guests, ahead of your wedding, using your stationery and/or wedding website. Your guests should be made to feel like they are part of your special day and their comfort and happiness should be a priority.
Communication
Communication for your wedding starts with a Save the Date, wedding invitations and/or your wedding website. Your wedding day program and signage will need to direct guests to key areas and provide them with a timeline of events. Detailed information will allow your guests to enjoy the experience of your wedding.
Accommodation and Transport
Guests do not want attending your wedding to be a complicated affair. Take into consideration how far the wedding venue is from their home. How far apart is your ceremony and reception venues? Providing details about accommodation and transport options will simplify the planning they need to do in order to attend your wedding.
Venue Space and Layout
A wedding venue that has a unique and stunning view adds to the experience on the day. Your guests will appreciate the time and effort you have spent selecting and styling a beautiful venue that has the space and setting to accommodate them all. The flow of the venue and access to facilities is also important. Arrange your seating plan thoughtfully.
Comfort and Convenience
Make your guests feel as comfortable as possible. If you are planning a garden wedding on a hot day then provide sunglasses and fans, perhaps even sunscreen. A cool autumn/fall wedding may require heaters, a fireplace or even blankets to be placed strategically around the venue for guests to make use of. Ensure that all amenities are easily accessible. Toilets, entrances and exits should all be close to the main venues and have wheelchair access if required.
Timing
Your ceremony should start on time. Starting your ceremony on time is courteous to your guests and suppliers. Starting on time sets the tone for the rest of your day. The overall flow and timing of your reception is also important, especially when meals are served. It is also a good idea to keep your ceremony, reception speeches and toasts concise.
Food
Food should be delicious and served on time. It should be plentiful and served hot where required. Take dietary requirements into account and do not overcomplicate your menu with exotic food choices and odd combinations. It is also a good idea to serve midnight snacks or takeaways if you are planning a late night reception party.
Bar and Drinks
Communicate with guests if you will have an open bar or cash bar. Also let them know if the bar will accept a tab for couples or parties and if cards are preferred over cash. A bar is a great place for guests to mingle, but having waiters to serve guests drinks during a plated dinner will add sophistication to your reception and they will not have to queue for service.
Entertainment
If your budget allows include different types of entertainment. Music is a must have but some guests may not enjoy dancing. Providing a few alternatives will add to the guest experience. Music should not be too loud during meals. Guests should be able to hear one another talk when seated. Your DJ or band can turn the volume up once the dance floor opens. Your playlist should cater for a variety of tastes to keep the party going.
