From The Straits Times    |


Copyright: halfpoint / 123RF Stock Photo

#1 The hour when the sun sets

If you’re having an evening or sunset solemnisation, or are thinking of having your formal portraits taken, don’t forget to note the time when the sun sets, so you can catch the golden hour. That particular period is rather brief, and you don’t want to miss it, as you’ll be stuck with unflattering flash photography or harsh venue lighting once it gets dark! 

 

#2 Providing transport for your wedding party

From your gatecrashing ceremony (if any) to your solemnisation and reception, don’t forget your wedding party, who’ll be with you most of the time! You can opt to rent a few cars for them, and have your groomsmen drive, or hire a mini van or mini bus to ferry them to and fro. This is especially helpful, if they need to help your vendors/coordinator with the venue set-up, too. See the things to remember for your ROM, things to remember after your wedding ceremony, and things to do between your solemnisation and reception.

 

#3 Your wedding website

Like it or not, your website is the best source of information as well as updates for guests to refer to. And you should have it set up before you send your save-the-date cards or invitations. Even if it’s not fully furnished, have the basic information up – like hotels, parking, and so on, which will be helpful for your out-of-town guests. See the things to include in your site here.

Image: Her World Brides

#4 Bridal intimates

Most bridal salons in Singapore should provide sew-in bra cups with your wedding gown, but if it doesn’t, check with your designer to see if that can be done. If you’re purchasing your gown or dress from an online boutique, don’t forget to find a bra that fits. You don’t want to be scrambling for the right bra on the day of. See also: wedding undergarment tips to note.

 

#5 Your wedding veil

It’s true that you’re never truly a bride without a wedding veil. But what are you going to do it once the ceremony ends? If it’s a short veil like the birdcage, blusher, shoulder-length or juliet cap, it’s fine if you want to keep it on after the ceremony, as long as it doesn’t impede your vision. Anything longer than that might prove cumbersome though, especially if you’re looking to move around the venue and greet guests. Ask your hairstylist to help remove it once the ceremony’s over, and have one of your bridesmaids keep it in your preparation room, or somewhere you won’t forget. Besides, you don’t want anyone stepping on your floor-length veil and potentially pulling your hair accessories out of your hair, or anyone slipping on the fine tulle! See: 10 showstopping wedding veil ideas that’ll transform your bridal look

 

#6 The one with the photo checklist

Designate a sibling, cousin or close relative to help with the photo-taking process, especially when it comes to formal portraits with the family. What you can do, is to have a designated time for photo-taking after the solemnisation or during the reception, and flash the different groups of people onto the screen. Your photographer and coordinator won’t be able to recognise who your loved ones are, so it’s up to your family or friend to help out with that. See a list of must-have photos for your photographer here.

Image: rawpixel/123rf.com

 

#7 Confirming with your vendors and suppliers

Even if you’ve confirmed the details with them, drop them a call, text or e-mail the week before to remind them anyway. In your message, include the location, time and services that was discussed during your meetings.

 

#8 More seats than necessary

It’s best to hire more seats than your guest count, as not everyone will want to sit next to each other. There will be a few seats left empty in between, so be prepared!

 

#9 Plan for your vendors to work OT

This may or may not happen, but it’s better to prepare your vendors (your photographer, coordinator, live band, bartender and so on) for that possibility, when the time comes for it.

 

#10 Keep your money safe

Ask someone to keep your ang pows, cards and gifts safe. If you’re having a banquet in the hotel, ask a trusted family member or friend to bring them up to your hotel room once all the guests have arrived. Tying the knot in a cafe, restaurant, park or any alternative venue? Have someone bring it to his or her car, and have it locked. See wedding party roles and responsibilities here.

 

#11 Ang pows for your vendors

When you’re wrapped up in other preparations such as getting your bouquet settled, bridal showers, bachelorette parties and so on, don’t forget to prepare gratuities for your vendors! This can be easily overlooked, especially in Singapore, where tipping isn’t a common culture. See our guide to giving angpows to your vendors and bridal party.