photos by Meghan Vaughn Photography (left) and K Jugar Photography (right)
{This was originally featured in our recent wedding magazine.}
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to do it alone. The good news is that you’re not alone! Your wedding is about two people—you and your soon-to-be-spouse. Instead of trying to do everything yourself, keep the following suggestions in mind and get your groom involved in the prenuptial preparations.
- Like all stereotypes, the one about men not being interested in wedding planning is not always true, but if your groom is a shy about pitching in, remember what he is interested in—you! If it’s about the floral centerpieces for the reception, he might not care much, but if it’s about saving you from total stress meltdown, he’ll probably care a lot. Let him know how much pressure you’re under and ask for his help.
photo by Lauren Paige Photography, see the full wedding here
- Next it’s time to pull out the old to-do list and decide, together, which tasks each of you will take on. Keep personal interests in mind. Let the music lover take charge of the playlist for the reception while the foodie handles the catering. If you feel strongly about flowers, keep that job for yourself and maybe suggest that your uber-organized groom handle the budget and keep track of contracts and appointments.
- What about those things that neither of you are particularly thrilled about doing? Well, start by deciding whether they’re absolutely necessary. Do you really need a seating chart or would you rather just let your guests choose their own tables? For those less pleasant chores that you both feel necessary, divide them up evenly or work on them together.
photo by K Jugar Photography, see the full event here
- One thing to keep in mind is that if you are asking for his help, you need to be willing to let go of total control. You’ve asked for his opinions and assistance, so it’s only fair that you listen and accept what he’s going to offer. In fact, a great way to get him excited about planning is to make sure that there’s something in it for him to be excited about.
- What elements of your big day reflect your groom’s personality and style? Some couples get creative with a unique groom’s cake or find ways to incorporate his tastes as well as hers into the wedding cake. Music, wedding favors, and centerpieces can also be easily chosen to reflect personality and interests. What could you add in or change up to make him feel like it really is about him as much as about you?
Marriage is all about working together and there’s no better time to start then when you are planning the wedding. Even if he seems a little reluctant at first, take the time to ask for his help and get him involved. As you work together, you’ll be sure to end up with a wedding that both of you will love.
Aubrey Fredrickson is a happily married, mother-of-two, stay-at-home freelance writer who loves discovering and sharing unique ideas.