I had lunch with a dear friend today and while we caught up and discussed everything under the sun she said something really important "one must manage expectations".
As Designs by iBi expands beyond just event decor and into event planning this phrase couldn't be more important. With all the recent media exposure of the wedding industry (Bridezillas, Who's Wedding is it Anyways, Platinum Weddings, etc) today's bride and groom are more than willing to go into debt, ruin relationships, and demand celebrity treatment just to achieve the wedding of "their dreams". As a wedding planner it is my job to ensure that couples not only get a dream wedding but also do it without destroying their personal and financial responsibilities.
While reading the Style section of San Francisco Chronicle today I came across an article about Judith Martin, a.k.a. Miss Manners. She provides us with her top 4 gentle wedding reminders which are in line with Managing Expectations:
1) When you had that childhood wedding fantasy, you were a child. If you don't have better taste and a greater sense of social and fiscal responsibility now, you're too immature to get married.
2) People are more important than menus. Figure out first whom you want to have there, and then what you can afford to serve them, not the other way around.
3) A phrase you will be happier if you forget: "the perfect wedding." Perfection does not exist this side of heaven, especially when it involves complicated arrangements and all kinds of other people, and you'll drive yourself and others crazy if you think you can achieve it.
4) Another phrase you will be happier forgetting: "It's your day." The joining of two people involves two (or more) families and other relatives and friends, and you ignore their feelings and comfort at your peril.
This is your wedding - focus on what's important - the love the two of you share. Remember to enjoy the day and savor every minute!!!!
**image thanks to bridalwave.tv
No comments:
Post a Comment