Common Ceremony 'Mistakes'
Planning your wedding ceremony can feel like a minefield. Let’s face it, most couples haven’t done it before, or if they have, they might not remember what the planning process was like.
So we’ve put together this handy list of common mistakes couples make when planning their ceremony.
Weather Woes
If you’re holding your ceremony in the great outdoors, there are some really specific things which will help you, and your guests, comfort level.
- Consider where the sun will be during the ceremony. If it’s high in the sky at the time your planning your ceremony, chances are you and your guests will be mighty uncomfortable, especially in our sunnier states and territories. We suggest moving the ceremony into a shaded area, or having the ceremony at a time when the sun isn’t at its strongest
- What happens if it rains? Always, always, always have a plan b. Umbrellas won’t cut it, and there’s the practical elements of your suppliers equipment – photographers, videographers, celebrants’ PA Systems – none of these like the rain, and you may find they refuse to use them if it’s raining.
Access Issues
Holding that ceremony that’s only accessible by 4WD? A beach? Up to a windy mountain? Many miles from a car park? Think about the following:
- Pre-warn your guests so they’re aware of any access issues
- Arrange transport to the ceremony space for your guests
- Suggest appropriate footwear – eg: if a beach wedding, let guests know they can go barefoot, or if a long walk to the ceremony area, wear flat shoes
Ratio of Guests/Wedding Party to Ceremony Space
Really consider your space before you send out those invitations. Trying to fit 150 guests into a small ceremony space will leave them uncomfortable, unable to see, and consequently, unengaged with this special moment.
We also often see large wedding parties squeezed into the altar area, leaving them squashed during the ceremony.
With a little foresight, this can all be avoided, and you also have the great excuse if you want a small wedding that ‘Sorry, would have loved to have invited Cousin Betsy, but we’re limited with numbers’.
Veils Velocity
Want to wear a veil on your wedding day? Hey, knock yourself out! However, it’s good to be aware that these things fly with the slightest bit of wind, so if you’re having an outdoor wedding, either make sure your veil is super-secure, or go for a shorter veil so it doesn’t fly in you or your partner’s face.
Grumpy Guests
It’s good to think about your ceremony from your guests perspective – some will arrive an hour early (especially if they’re not familiar with the location) and a few little things will help them feel welcomed and settled right from the get-go.
- Provide refreshments before the ceremony – even water will be welcomed
- Have music playing as soon as guests start arriving. Create a playlist which will set the tone for the day.
- Ensure guests are informed what will happen straight after the ceremony. Group photo, and then…? Is there a pre-reception space with canapes and drinks? Do you require them to keep themselves amused for some time? If so, is there somewhere nearby where they can get refreshments?
Ask The Experts
Your suppliers are a font of knowledge, so share with them your plans and ask for feedback or ideas before locking everything in.
We know our amazing members will be more than happy to help in any way they can!
