It might seem like an odd problem to have while planning your wedding, but it happens to more couples than you think. Even with the most helpful fiancé of all time, sometimes you just need an extra set of hands. Think about all the long distance couples out there; he might not be able to come to the cake tasting, and if you need a second opinion and your family all live far away, your left with your friends. Some people don’t want to be a burden, so it can be very tough to ask. However, a wedding is an incredibly stressful event to plan on your own, so we’ve gathered a few ways to get a little help here and there when you need it most.
1.) Throw a wedding planning party. It’s a party, so it has to be fun: key word being “fun”. Don’t make people show up with pads and pencils and sit quietly in a circle, that’s no fun at all. Have drinks and snacks readily available, and let them know any idea is open for discussion. If you start shutting people down immediately no one will want to help.
You can assign categories to make it interesting (your mom is in charge of coming up with a floral scheme while your girlfriends are in charge of coming up with drink specials) or you can just plan on everyone bringing their top general ideas to the table. Either way, keep the drinks and snacks abundant and you should be able to have a great brainstorming session.
2.) Play up to their expertise. Everyone likes to be called an expert, so when you tell your friend what amazing fashion sense she has and then mention how difficult it’s been to find a bridesmaid dress, she’ll gladly offer her help. That’s the beauty of this; you really don’t even have to ask. All you have to do is give a compliment then wait to say ‘yes’ when they offer their assistance.
3.) Just call someone and ask. At some point, you have to be a big girl and just ask for help. Call your friend on the phone and ask if she’ll come meet the florist with you later that week. If you’re mature enough to be getting married you’re mature enough to pick up the phone and ask your friend for a quick favor.
4.) Don’t forget the strangers. That woman at the bridal shop might know more about weddings than you ever imagined, so it might be a wise move to ask her opinion on matters other than the dress. She might be full of useful information that you would otherwise be missing out on.
5.) Get help where you can. Need an extra set of hands but have literally no one to help out? Get creative. If you’re a kindergarten teacher, bring one of your wedding to-do’s to class as a project. It will save you a lesson plan and keep your kids busy. Have them fold origami swans instead of paper airplanes. It might not be the best route to take but at least you’re getting the work done and our kids are learning what swans are.
Lily’s Bridal is Maryland’s Premier Bridal Boutique – Lily’s Bridal offers Wedding Dresses up to size 30. Call to book your appointment today.