Our Best Tips for Handling Last-Minute Wedding Challenges

Five Common Wedding Challenges and How to Overcome Them

One of the most stressful parts about wedding planning is that you can’t predict exactly how the day will go. There are lots of things that can pop up at the last minute and cause us to pivot our plans. Though it’s frustrating, it’s a normal part of a large event!

Even the most well-organized and planned-out weddings can deal with last-minute changes, challenges, cancellations, or hiccups. As hard as we try to control everything, there will always be things outside of our ability to change. A big part of our role as wedding planners is being that support system to have your back through any of the unexpected challenges that may arise. (We like to mention that we put out fires- both literally and figuratively- before you even notice them).

If the thought of unforeseen shifts in your carefully laid wedding plans makes your heart rate pick up, this blog post is for you. Last-minute changes do not mean your day won’t feel as dreamy and special as you’ve always wanted it to be.

While not everything is in your control, there are lots of things you can do to set yourself up for success. When you’ve created the right contingency plans as well as built a relationship of trust with your wedding planning team, you’ll be ready if the need for a pivot arises.

Through our years in the wedding planning industry, we’ve seen all kinds of unexpected situations that come up at the last minute. Let’s chat about a few common challenges that may arise, and how you can calmly respond to them.

Poor weather

Be aware of the forecast during the days leading up to your wedding (but don’t let it overwhelm you too much!). If the weather predictions aren’t looking cooperative, stay in touch with your guests and vendor team to let them know of any potential changes. For outdoor celebrations, work with your venue to come up with a plan B option in advance, like an indoor location or tent rental.

Sudden Illness or Injury

Add a basic first aid kit to your wedding day packing list in case of minor injuries like cuts or burns. To avoid illness, prioritize rest and hydration before and after your big day (that goes for your wedding party as well!). Sometimes sickness can pop up out of the blue, which is why it’s helpful to have multiple people aware of the wedding plan so it’s easy to delegate responsibility.

Technical Difficulties

There’s nothing more stress-inducing than trying to figure out why a speaker won’t work while you’ve got an audience waiting for a toast or speech. Double and triple-check all connections, as well as bring backup sound equipment. Working with vendors who are professionals in their field is a lifesaver in situations like this!

Transportation Or Other Delays

Traffic can be hard to predict, which is why it’s always a good idea to build plenty of buffer time into your wedding timeline. Be prepared to provide your guests with clear instructions on how to navigate to your venue in case of heavy traffic or road closures. In general buffer time is good to add into your schedule as hair and makeup often takes longer than expected, photos may go overtime, etc.

Wardrobe Malfunctions

Another great thing to add to your wedding day packing list: a clothing first-aid kit! This includes things like a needle and thread, safety pins, a stain remover stick, and fashion tape. If you really want to be ahead of the game, bring backup attire that you can use in case of emergency/ask your planner what they provide in their day-of kit so you don’t have to worry about packing everything yourself!

While you can’t stop any of these things from happening or predict how they will affect your situation, you can be physically and mentally prepared for them. Getting a good team of people to support your vision and help you navigate last-minute challenges is the best way to stay calm when the chaos and beauty of the celebration arrives.

♥ The Everson Events Team

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