Wondering if there are any clever ways to cut costs without skimping on your wedding style? Or how to do the seating plan? And what if you wake up on the day with puffy eyes and a pimple? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with clever wedding hacks that’ll save you time, money and stress.
By Leigh Herringer
GETTING STARTED
Set up a personal website to share all your wedding information. You can include details on your venue, gift registry, nearby hotels and things to do in the area for out-of-town guests. Use your site to invite guests to pre- and post-wedding events and give them specifics, such as the weather at that time of year.
Create a new email address so you can keep track of wedding-related queries, quotes and online RSVPs. Keep a wedding book of to-do lists or download a wedding planning app with helpful tips and checklists.
Unless you’re related to Martha Stewart or you’re the most relaxed bride-to-be on the planet, then you should seriously consider hiring a wedding coordinator. You want to revel in the build-up to your big day and walk down the aisle feeling confident and carefree, not harassed and haggard.
If your budget doesn’t cater for an independent planner, check if venues have an in-house coordinator who can help you on the day. A good idea is to also appoint a go-to person for the actual day and indicate him/her to all your suppliers and vendors.
Register at store and online gift registries for ease and convenience, but check the return and exchange policies. Don’t assume anything. Read the fine print.
Social media is one of the most contentious issues bridal couples face in the digital world, and it’s completely your choice whether to use it or not. But think of it like this: if you have a wedding hashtag, you can look at your guests’ photos in one convenient place from the moment you wake up as husband and wife. You can also use your hashtag for wedding related events such as your hen party and rehearsal dinner.
Go to wedding shows like The Wedding Expo and you’ll find many of the industry’s top florists, caterers, photographers and wedding planners under one roof. You’ll also discover wedding venues and see the latest bridal fashion and decor trends. Take your mom and bridesmaids with you and make a fun day out of it.
Create Pinterest boards to share with your wedding vendors to show them exactly the mood and feel you’re looking for. Show your photographer specific examples of wedding poses you like, for example.
For more fantastic wedding hacks, pick up a copy of the Spring edition of South African Wedding Inspirations, on sale now nationwide at Pick ‘n Pay stores, CNA, Exclusive Books, PNA, Clicks and Dis-Chem, as well as selected SPAR supermarkets and independent retailers.