With more than 2 million weddings happening in the U.S. every year, it's clear that the wedding season rush can be overwhelming. Even worse, some last-minute details, like music, can fall through the cracks.
Right from the ceremony cues to the reception's peak moments, there's so much to do. Let's take music as an instance. Bands are a popular choice as they bring live energy that guests can feel on the dance floor. But more people are opting for platinum DJ services these days as they offer more flexibility and variety.
Like choosing the right kind of music, there are other decisions that may overwhelm you during the planning process. There's a good chance you may miss out on something, but we won't let that happen.
Below is a detailed checklist of things to remember before you say “I do”.
Finalize the Music
Music is the heartbeat of every wedding. Most people are torn between their favorite band and a DJ. Both have their own set of pros and cons. Bands are great for setting a lively atmosphere.
From the obligatory wedding march to forever classics as well as original scores, wedding bands have all the tricks up their sleeves to create unforgettable moments.
But, here's the catch: bands are limited by their setlists. If your guests start requesting songs that aren't on their list, things can get awkward. DJs, on the other hand, are a different beast.
They have access to thousands of tracks across every genre, meaning they can customize the playlist on the fly, keeping the energy exactly where you want it all night long.
Platinum DJs are highly trained wedding DJs who are also experts in public speaking. So they can effortlessly guide the flow of your reception as a Master of Ceremonies (MC). A DJ can earn the “platinum” tag only after successfully performing at least 100 events.
These experienced professionals come with event insurance. So, just in case anything goes wrong, rest assured you will be covered. Moreover, in general, wedding DJ services come at a lower price point than a full band.
According to RMF Entertainment, many DJs are also great at hosting events. This means they can double up as MCs at weddings, guiding guests and making announcements as needed.
There is no right or wrong choice here. The only wrong thing would be to not have any music at all! Just in case the wedding is just around the corner and your favorite band or DJ is not available, reach out to your musician friend or cousin for help.
Secure the Marriage License
It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of wedding planning, but don't forget the legal necessities. Many couples are surprised to learn that marriage licenses often expire within 30-60 days of issuance in states like New York and Kentucky.
Moreover, if you are getting married in West Virginia, please be aware that officiating a wedding without a valid marriage license is considered a criminal offense here.
So be sure to apply for and pick up your license well in advance of the big day. Requirements can vary by state, so check with your local registrar's office to understand the process and timeline.
Forgetting this critical step could mean postponing your ceremony - not the kind of last-minute surprise anyone wants!
Provide Clear Signage for Guests
Nothing kills the festive mood quite like confused, lost wedding guests. You don't want Aunt Martha frantically asking directions to the restroom as the ceremony is about to begin. That's why clear, strategic signage is an absolute must for all types of weddings, both indoor and outdoor.
Take a walk through the space and put yourself in your guests' shoes. Where do they need guidance? Mark all the key areas - parking, ceremony seating, bar, restrooms, and anything else they'll need to locate.
Aim for signs that are large, high-contrast, and legible from at least 20 feet away. For bigger venues, add in some extra directional markers to keep the foot traffic flowing.
Lastly, don't forget to clearly indicate where guests can find the welcome drinks or seating chart. A little wayfinding goes a long way in making your celebration run like a well-oiled machine.
Have a Vendor Contact List for Emergencies
Despite all the planning in the world, things happen. That's why a well-stocked emergency kit is a must-have. Include essentials like breath mints, hair spray, safety pins, a sewing kit, stain remover, and bandages.
You'll also want to have any necessary vendor contacts on hand, just in case. Create a quick reference list with each vendor's phone number, arrival time, and primary contact person. Share this list with a reliable friend or family member who can step in if you're occupied.
If there is still a lot to do and not enough manpower, you can consider hiring a wedding coordinator. They can help you with the logistics of a wedding, which includes all the things mentioned above and more. After all, even the most organized couples can benefit from having someone dedicated to managing the details.
Breathe Easy, You've Got This!
With this handy checklist in your back pocket, you can confront the final countdown with confidence. Sure, there will always be a few curveballs, but now you have the tools to stay on top of the easy-to-miss details. So take a deep breath, lean on your support system, and get ready to celebrate the start of your happily ever after!
