Getting Prepared for the BIG DAY - Your Wedding!

It's a given that it'll take the bride-to-be far longer to prepare for her wedding day than it will the groom-to-be. The up-do, the make-up, and the manicure/pedicure all need to be done on the big day, but there's more. Getting into that mind-boggling contraption that's called a wedding dress and its attached gear can easily take up to an hour. Then of course, it's photograph time. It's no wonder late afternoon weddings are so favoured!

And while most of the guys probably don't have a inkling how to put on their penguin suites, there's likely to be plenty of mothers and aunts about to assist those needy men get prepared. A sprinkle of water on the face, a quick comb through the hair and viola! Then as long as the guys don't get lost on the way to the wedding ceremony, they've pretty much accomplished their wedding day tasks.

All teasing aside, there are still wedding day tasks that need tending. Most have already been agreed and reconfirmed, so really what is required on this day is someone responsible for making sure the wedding ceremony location and reception site are ready ' that the furnishings, flowers, favors, DJ, photographer and cake are all in position. Hiring a wedding coordinator for the day is always an choice. Plus, it won't harm to triple-check the transportation. It should be picking up the bridal party at least 20 minutes before the ceremony.

If the couple has paid attention to their planning checklist, the day will go off pretty much as expected. Nevertheless, even the finest laid plans are subject to fall short and this is something that needs to be understood and even expected. The good news is most of the types of things that go 'wrong' aren't even noticed by the guests. Broccoli gets served instead of green beans. The DJ forgot to bring the bride's requested first dance music, but puts on a suitable substitute. The bride needs to relax and let these things go.

The best man does have a few significant responsibilities. He's got to take charge of getting the groom to the ceremony. He has to make sure the wedding rings and his speech are carefully tucked away inside his pocket. He should also have the cash that'll be paid out at the ceremony. And someone has to have the money required to pay off any balances due for professional services rendered.

The bride may wish to seize a few moments before the wedding gets underway to sit with her parents and thank them for their support all through her life and reassure them that her love for them is stronger than ever. And she surely should eat. With all the expectancy and excitement of the imminent festivities, it's easy to not feel hungry, but this is not a good idea, especially if food won't be available for a few more hours.

Most importantly, remember to keep smiling. And remember that in just a few hours, you'll both be relaxing, alone, in your honeymoon suite!