Your wedding is a special day, but it doesn't come without stress. However, you can relieve some of the pressure by spending less time and money on the things your wedding guests don't care about and focusing on the things they do, making your wedding a night to remember for both you and your guests.
What Guests Care About
Booze. If you choose to forego an open bar for custom monogrammed favors, you may want to rethink your decision. A cash bar can seem cheap, especially because guests are already expected to bring a gift. Nothing ruins your reception more than cranky guests who are upset about shelling out their money for alcohol. Do them a favor and make sure you have liquor, beer and wine available at your reception - for free. And if you still decide to go with a cash bar, make sure guests know in advance so they aren't surprised (or running to the ATM!).
Dress code. Make sure your dress code is clear on your invitations so your guests don't show up to your backyard barbecue in formal wear. Be clear about your wishes to avoid guest confusion or embarrassment. For example, your invitation might say, "black tie formal attire" or "casual dress encouraged." You may still receive some questions, so be prepared to give examples of your preferred attire.
Food. Your guests won't necessarily care whether the food is plated, buffet style or family style. What they do care about is that it is good and that there is plenty of it. Make sure you provide your caterer with an accurate headcount to ensure you have enough food, and always err on the side of too much rather than too little. Additionally, if you're going to have a lengthy cocktail hour before dinner is served, make sure you have some appetizers so guests don't go hungry.
What Guests Don't Care About
Centerpieces. Guests don't care about fancy or expensive centerpieces and decorations. They want to be able to talk to each other while they're eating and view any special moments, such as first dances and cake cutting. Then, they will be away from their table dancing or mingling. Either way, they won't be admiring your hard work for long, so don't spend too much time or money on table decorations.
Fancy favors. How many wedding favors have you kept from the weddings you've attended? Do you even remember what you received? Exactly. Your guests don't care about the favors they receive, so don't waste time trying to come up with the perfect, unique gift. Something simple, such as candy or mints, is both affordable and practical.
Wedding cake. As long as the cake tastes great, guests don't care what it looks like. In fact, many couples choose a small cake for presentation and then serve a sheet cake to the guests. Wedding cakes can get extremely expensive, so don't worry about adding pearls, flowers or fondant to create the perfect cake. Simply choose which one tastes the best!
For more information, contact SPE at (216) 870-4513 or scott@spedj.com.
