9 ways to guarantee your guests will LOVE your wedding

Your wedding is undoubtedly a significant day for you as a couple and I always encourage my planning clients to create an event that really represents them, rather than one based on what others around them may like or want.

However it’s also one of the rare occasions when all of your nearest and dearest will be in the same place at the same time. These are the people you love the most in the world so I’m sure you’ll want them enjoy the day as much as you do.

To help out I’ve gathered together a few ideas to ensure your family and friends remember your big day for all the right reasons.

PICK A CONVENIENT DATE //

Saturdays are still the most popular day of the week to get married but if you’ve opted for a less common day, give your guests more notice than normal so they have time to make any necessary arrangements. The same applies to busier times of the year such as Easter, the height of summer or Christmas.

INVITATION ETIQUETTE // 

It’s your wedding and you make the rules but taking the time to let your guests know your plans will avoid any confusion. When creating your invitations make sure your guests are clear on points such as whether children are invited, if single guests can bring a plus one and if there is a free or pay bar. It may feel difficult to be upfront but I promise it will reduce awkwardness further along the line.

HELP WITH LOGISTICS //

If you’re having separate ceremony and reception venues try to ensure the distance between them is reasonable and parking is ample. Consider laying on transport for your guests and include taxi numbers and a list of local hotels with your invitations. Go one better by securing a discounted room rate for your guests.

PROTECT THEM FROM THE ELEMENTS //

For summer weddings keep guests comfortable with supplies of suntan lotion, handheld fans and insect repellent. For a winter celebration have a stock of pashmina wraps to hand and serve hot drinks at your reception to keep guests toasty. There is no doubting that the British weather is unpredictable so umbrellas are probably a good item to have to hand all year round!

FEED THEM //

Hungry guests are cranky guests and cranky guests do not make for a fun-filled celebration. Food and drink is an expensive part of any wedding so don’t feel that you have to serve a 7 course feast but a few canapés and some light evening snacks will keep hunger (and guest grouchiness) at bay.

LET THEM KNOW WHAT’S HAPPENING // 

Most weddings involve a bit of waiting around at some point and most guests don’t mind, as long as they have a sense of how long the wait might be. Display a wedding day itinerary around your venue or provide printed programmes so your guests are clued up on what is happening and when. If you have a wedding website include the order of the day on there too.

ENTERTAIN THE YOUNGSTERS // 

If you are having a large number of children at your wedding then think about how you might entertain them. Mobile event crèches are a great option for large numbers of little guests but can also be costly. As an alternative consider simple activity packs on the tables or if your venue has the space, a playroom with books and games for children to have fun whilst their parents are.

PLAY A GOOD MIX OF MUSIC //

You and your new husband may be avid Metallica fans but it’s probably not Aunt Mary’s cup of tea. A playlist of different genres and eras will keep all of your guests happy and ensure the dancefloor is full all night. You could also ask that your guests provide a song choice with their RSVP so everyone’s favourite track gets played.

SAY THANKS //

It may be an obvious one but never underestimate the power of a handwritten, personalised thank you note. We love these gorgeous postcard designs from Berinmade.

Love,