From The Straits Times    |

WD_20081123_0622-0233.jpgIMAGE: Elaine & Chin Ming’s wedding

How do I avoid making a complete fool of myself during our first dance? I hate to dance but my fiancee loves it!
Most couples think they need a “formal” dance like the waltz for their first dance. But says who? Rather than try to impress, I’d say you should just enjoy your first dance. Start by choosing a slow song with a rhythm you can simply sway to. As long as you can “feel” the rhythm and move in time with it, you’re fine.

The key is in choosing a song you both like. So pick that piece, take a few practice turns around the living room, and while you’re at it, create some fun memories along the way. On the big day, think of those to keep the jitters at bay. Also, there’s no harm in having a word with some trusted friends beforehand and asking them to join you on the floor after the first verse of the song.

We want a hip evening wedding by the pool. What will look cool but still formal for my guy?
Your guy has got quite a few fashion-forward options, like an urban-chic Mandarin-collar, long jacket done in a formal fabric instead of cotton or linen. To look modern, the collar should be stiff, styled after the military look. Team it with lean-cut pants, all in off-white to match your dress, and you’ll both look super-chic.

My fiancee’s dad wants to contribute to the cost of our wedding, but how do I avoid hurting my dad’s pride?
Start by talking to your dad privately. For all you know, he may be thrilled about sharing the costs with your future father-in-law. If he is, a tactful discussion among you, your fiancee and your future father-in-law, where you discuss the overall budget, should follow. If your dad refuses the offer though, your future father-in-law should accept the decision with grace. Perhaps he can come up with another way to contribute, such as paying for your solemnisation reception or your honeymoon.

We have a number of out-of-town guests. What’s the best way to guide them from church to venue?
Try a chartered bus – it’s easy to arrange, and a great ice-breaker for guests if they don’t know each other. Delegate some attendants to guide guests to the bus after the service, and have them go on the bus as well to introduce guests so no one would feel left out. To let guests know about your arrangement, include transport information – consider a bookmark strip inserted with your invitation.

This article was first published in Her World Brides Sept – Nov 2009. If you have any wedding-related queries, you can drop us a mail at tfelicia@sph.com.sg, and we will try our best to answer them! Your questions may even appear in Her World Brides’s Ideas We Love (news) section, so do keep a look out for it.