As you begin planning and working out your time line, do it in a few points of view. Make out your schedule for the day, think about your attendants & family's where and whens, and don't forget about your guests. Its very easy to schedule in the extra 2 hours for the photo shoot you want in between your ceremony and reception. And although many of your family & attendants will be doing it with you, what about your guests who are not? When your guests are all local, maybe its no big deal to go home for a few hours and come back for your dinner. But what if they're not from the area? Are they sitting in their rental car? finding a fast food place? or following you around like the paparazzi?
Why not have someone host them? Say there are 10-15 that you know will be coming, and might not know the area. Perhaps a close friend or family member (not in the wedding) can invite them over for a pitcher of margaritas and some cheese and crackers. Really anything that shows that you have thought about your guests and their comfort will be welcomed.
Lets talk ceremony.
You've decided to touch on rituals from many different cultures, since you and your soon-to-be spouse are from different cultures yourselves. You've spent months writing your own ceremony and know the whole thing by heart. In this case, don't fore go a program. Include the ceremony's out line, but more importantly, tell us what the ritual's represent, and why you chose them. I want to understand that when you turn to face each of the 4 directions its a native American tradition thanking the Earth. Don't give us things that make us go hmmm.
Celebrity vs. Neighbor.
Are you sitting at the edge of the room on an elevated platform away from your guests where you can be seen? Or are you sitting in the middle of the room where everyone can (and will) stop by your table to congratulate you? Every couple has a different idea for their day. If you opt to be seen/watched, give us a show. Have it all be organized, seamless, magical. Smile everywhere you go - some one is always watching. If you're sitting among your guests, be welcoming of their chatting with you. Try to get your photos done and out of the way and don't leave (much) again. Speak to your guests. And I don't mean table hopping during dinner where you speak to everyone at the table and count that as spending time with them. At some point, really have a moment and chat with your guests. You don't need to ask about what happened at work the last 2 days you were gone, but don't just flash them a pretty smile and walk right by. They are there for you. They are there because you invited them. So be a gracious host (or have someone else be), and have a good time. Ultimately, its your happiness that will be contagious. So can you do it all? as long as you've taken care of your guests, Yes! (and do it with flair:-))
