If you are a couple who has had to postpone your wedding because of lockdown: here are some tips of things you can do now to keep focused on the big day; and make use of your time to start preparing in advance.
It's hard not to feel despondent right now. Not only does the new date seem so far away; the reality is that some of your plans might have to change for practical or financial reasons. Either you are looking at a smaller, more intimate wedding than you had originally planned; or you are having to consider a more DIY approach than you had in mind.
On top of the pain of postponing the big day there is currently no real end in sight to the lockdown situation; therefore many of us who don't have small children, caring responsibilities, or aren't working full time have more time on our hands.
These ideas will keep your mind focused on the big day; give you something constructive to do with your time; save some cash; and perhaps help you learn a few new skills in the process! Many of these are worth trying even if you are not planning a wedding.
1. Learn to choreograph your first dance
If you have time on your hands; a great way to do something together would be to take some online dancing lessons together to teach yourselves a routine for your first dance.
Not only will this surprise and delight your guests on the big day; but it’s a bonding and fun thing to do together during lockdown.
Many companies are offering online first dance classes at the moment such as First Dance UK.
2. Learn calligraphy
Wouldn’t it be great to write out beautiful invites for your guests? Taking some time to learn calligraphy could help you do just that (and possibly save some money on the invites too). You could either order a book online or join an online course. A good resource for equipment and tips is at Learn Calligraphy UK
3. Start a playlist
If you are saving money by not having a DJ then it’s a good idea to start a playlist of music as early as possible before the big day. Add songs gradually every time you think of a new one so that your playlist can grow organically. This is much less stressful and more likely to result in a playlist you are happy with than if you have to throw a playlist together at the last minute.
4. Start collecting glass jars
These are handy for lots of decorative things such as putting tealights in as candle holders; or as mini vases.
Sauce, jam, and pesto jars are good sizes and the more variety you have the better. It takes a while to collect enough though as you'll need more than you think once you get started so the earlier you start collecting the better!
5. Start making your own flavoured gin
There are loads of recipes for flavoured gin online; most of which you have to leave for at least about 12 weeks before it is ready to drink. You could decant it into pretty drinks bottles once it is ready as gifts for your bridesmaids etc (after you have thoroughly taste tested it yourselves of course!). There are some gorgeous flavoured gin recipes on the BBC Good Food site.
6. Make DIY Decorations
This could be a perfect time to brush up on your creative skills and learn to make things like wedding favours; bouquets for bridesmaids; or decorations for the venue such as bunting or paper flowers etc. There are tonnes of inspirational videos online such as this video on how to make bunting.
7. Personalise your Vows
Now is a great time to think about writing your vows as this is something that you don’t want to be rushing at the last minute.
8. Make the most of this time
No matter how disheartening it feels now that your wedding day has been postponed; there is always going to be a rush to get everything finished in those last few weeks before the big day. You will thank yourself when that time finally arrives that you've done so much preparation so far in advance! And hopefully you'll have been able to add some real personal touches along the way.
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