Whether you are planning for hundreds or just a handful of guests, these 5 Wedding Must Haves will ensure your big day is meaningful, wonderful and truly unforgettable –
1. Being surrounded by those who love you most
If you’re fortunate enough to have an extensive list of people you love and who love you back, it may make it more difficult to pick “those who love you most;” but humour me, try this…
Think of that steadfast person you call when the going gets tough. Or that one person you open up to about the most vulnerable parts of you. What about that person who would drop anything to be by your side? Or the person you call when the most exciting thing happens.
Who are those people? They are likely on a short list. These are who you need to surround yourself with on your wedding day. Any other loving people in your life who attend are just “bonus.”
2. Hearing sounds that speak to you
There’s something to be said about sensory experiences. And how, when you hear a certain song, band, melody, or playlist, it brings you back to a specific time and place. It draws on a precise memory. Music can also set the mood. It can amp you up before or during something challenging, it can tone things down for some R & R. It can lift you, chill you, inspire you.
So hire that trio, book that singer, sign the band or create the custom playlist. Having songs and sounds to associate with the love shared on your special day will be a cherished and lifelong perk.
3. Adding personal touches
The way we share love through experiences is by making them meaningful and personal. Customize your wedding to make it all about you and those you love most. Like what? Well how about you…
- Ditch that traditional cake and serve the dessert you shared on your first date
- Prep your DJ to surprise your parents’ with the first dance songs from their own weddings
- Order in Grandpa’s favourite limited edition scotch
- Stitch your favourite quote or verse into the inside of your wedding dress train
- Have your Aunt’s special tea steeped and ready for the late night spread
It is too easy to get lost in the seemingly never-ending to-do list of weddings. Don’t. Don’t let this happen. Take a walk and a breather and make the time to think about some special ways to make your event chock full of meaningful extras. Trust me. It will be well worth it!
4. Experiencing meaningful spoken word
Of the 5 wedding must haves, this one is extra critical in my mind. Feelings and emotions are at an all time high on wedding days. Not just for the couple getting married but for all those who love and support them. There is absolutely nothing more special than having the opportunity to express and to also receive those loving feelings and emotions through readings, toasts or speeches. Quiet the hustle and bustle in your mind, put the festivities on pause, and soak in the thoughtful words prepared by your family and friends. These are precious points of time and my most FAVOURITE part of weddings!
5. Capturing it all
Whether you’re planning an intimate garden celebration or a grand occasion at an upscale venue, documenting the day through a photographers or videographers lens is a must! Your wedding will come to an end, and eventually the years will pass by and what you will hold onto from this one day in your life is – hopefully your spouse 
– and cherished picture and video momentos. Hiring seasoned pros to capture your most beloved moments is the right investment no matter what size or shape your wedding takes!
With love,
Paula
Photo by Laura Paxton
