What Most People Forget When Planning a Wedding
While wedding planning, it’s easy to convince yourself that once you've booked the venue, found the dress and finalised the menu, you're almost there. The big decisions have been ticked off, so what is there to worry about? But ask almost any married couple what they would do differently, and you'll hear a whole other story. It’s the little things they wish they had thought about that didn’t actually make the wedding planning checklist.
In this guide, we're sharing all the little things that many couples overlook when planning their wedding – but can make all the difference to the enjoyment and running of your day.
Planning Time to Actually Enjoy the Day
One of the most common things couples say after their wedding is that the day went by in a blur. So, it’s a good idea to set aside time to enjoy special moments as a newly married couple.
Firstly, plan a quiet ten minutes together after the ceremony. While your guests are mingling, it’s your chance to take a breath and soak in the reality that you’re actually married!
Also, make sure you get the chance to eat. It may sound obvious, but many couples get caught up chatting or being taken off for photographs, meaning they barely touch their wedding breakfast. Having a top table can give you a little space away from everyone else. It’s also worth planning a short private pause before the evening reception begins to reset and prepare for the arrival of additional guests.
Just remember that weddings rarely run exactly to schedule. Photos often take longer than expected. Speeches can also overrun as people ad-lib. Even the ceremony itself might start a little later than planned. Building in some extra time means you won’t feel rushed and don’t have to sweat the small stuff.
The Photos People Wish They Had Asked For
A large number of couples look back through their wedding and realise they had missed important shots – especially with close family members.
It’s easy to assume you’ll naturally get plenty of pictures with family and friends, but time can quickly disappear. To make sure nobody important is missed, arrange a list of the group shots you’d like with your photographer beforehand. It’s also worth assigning someone who knows your guests to gather groups for shot lists. This means you’re not spending your day trying to find missing relatives!
Some of the most treasured images are often the ones you didn’t arrange. The natural moments that capture the real atmosphere of your wedding day. It may be guests enjoying outdoor games or a quiet moment between the two of you. So, ask your photographer to also spend time capturing the candid shots.
The backdrop of your wedding day plays a bigger role in your photos than you might expect. Having a variety of spaces where guests can socialise means your photographer can capture the full story of your day. A Staffordshire wedding venue with gardens and characterful spaces, like the Moat House, gives you plenty of photograph opportunities that’ll leave you with lasting memories.
Eating, Drinking and Looking After Yourselves
Menu planning is one of the most exciting parts of organising your wedding. Many couples are invited to a tasting session at their chosen venue to choose their preferred dishes. However, it’s surprisingly common for couples to barely enjoy their wedding meal because they’re being pulled in different directions. Don’t let the moment pass you by. After all, it is one of the key parts of your wedding day experience. Explore wedding food and drink at The Moat House to create a menu that’s perfect for your special day.
It’s completely normal to feel nervous on the morning of your wedding, and eating breakfast is probably the last thing on your mind. If your nerves are getting the better of you, don’t worry about filling up on a big meal. Just try to have something small, such as a pastry or some fruit, to keep your energy levels up.
As the day goes on, ask someone you trust, such as your maid of honour or best man, to quietly check in with you and make sure you’re fed and watered.
The Jobs That Need a Named Person
While your venue’s wedding coordinator will be there to keep the day on track, they can’t be everywhere at once. Having one or a few trusted people on hand who know the plan will give you extra peace of mind.
Think about the small jobs that will help the day run smoothly and make sure each one has a person responsible for it. This could include:
- Looking after the rings
- Ensuring the marriage documents are given to the celebrant
- Helping organise family and group photos
- Carrying an emergency kit with any personal essentials
- Collecting decorations and belongings at the end of the evening
- Making sure your overnight bags make it safely to your room
Guest Flow, Downtime and End-of-Night Details
When you imagine your wedding day, it’s easy to focus on the moments you’ve been looking forward to the most. But you also need to bear in mind your guests' needs.
Older relatives and those with disabilities will appreciate comfortable seating areas. And don’t forget to give your evening guests clear arrival times. A quick message beforehand can avoid any confusion. The last thing you want is guests arriving while you’re halfway through your wedding breakfast!
When the celebrations start to wind down, how will everyone get home? It may be a good idea to arrange taxis in advance, especially if there are limited options nearby. You can also include details of local hotels with your invitations if your wedding venue is already booked out.
If some of your guests are staying over, why not make the most of having everyone together for a little longer? A relaxed breakfast for the following morning gives you the chance to continue the celebrations and share stories of your special day before everyone heads home.
How The Moat House Helps Couples Think Through the Details
At The Moat House, we aim to support couples through every aspect of the wedding-planning journey. We guide you in making those big decisions and the smaller touches that make your special day one of a kind.
Set within a Grade II-listed manor house, with beautiful canalside gardens, The Moat House has spaces for every part of your celebration – from your ceremony through to your evening reception.
Our tailored wedding packages are designed to give every couple the flexibility to plan a day that feels completely personal to them. Create your perfect menu with our skilled chefs and arrange those extra-special touches with expert wedding co-ordinators. When you book exclusive use of The Moat House, you’ll have full availability of our 41 bedrooms, so you and your guests stay together in one place. Start planning your wedding at The Moat House today!
Start Planning Your Wedding at The Moat House
Are you recently engaged and ready to start planning your dream wedding day? Come and meet our friendly wedding team at The Moat House. Explore our beautiful spaces and grounds, and start imagining your special day here. Book a showround to see the venue for yourself, or browse our latest wedding brochure for inspiration.