At this point in my life, I am happily helping to plan two weddings. They are June 6th and October 4th 2025, fast approaching! To be quite honest, I am not doing much. The girls have fabulous ideas of how to make their BIG days special, unique and memorable. I am more of a sounding board – giving ideas and opinions that may or may not be used – which is fine with me! I am watching the planning and taking part in the details that will add joy and sentimentality into the day. As we get closer to each event, I have seen and realized a few differences since planning my own wedding WAY back in 1996 BP (before Pinterest). The internet and social media have also created quite a beast. Here are a few things I have noticed – the good, bad and the ugly.

*GOOD*

I love that the Bridesmaids dresses and all that is involved with them are more relaxed. No longer is it that the bride tells you exactly what dress you will get and requests that you get heels of a certain height dyed to match (do you REMEMBER how we dyed our heels ?!?!?!?). Now, it is much more freestyle. Often, the bride will select a color from a certain dress maker and ask all the Bridesmaids to choose the style that they are most comfortable in, that fits them most comfortably and showcases their body the best. It is also common that the dresses are the same style, but different colors, all blending beautifully. Heck – patterns are even a thing, now – how cool is it? FREEDOM!

Flower preservation! It’s the coolest thing, you guys! These brides are having amazing creations made from their bouquets… wall hangings, serving trays, coasters, jewelry and more! I would have done this in a heartbeat and am so excited for my girls to be able to keep such a special part of their wedding day and be able to enjoy it forever!

The Grand Exit… OK. So fun! The ideas are endless – but include special outfits, music, sparklers, bubbles, photos and more. Leaving to begin your new life together DESERVES a special moment and you can make it as grand or minimal as you’d like. Just one more memory of the day two became one. And a tad more fun then staying and helping to clean up and load the vans with all the hoopla!

Pinterest CAN be your friend. Everything in moderation, that’s the key. As a teacher, Pinterest can be my bestie or the cool girl that has it all. When considering weddings and every single decision that has to be made – social media can jump the fine line of friend or foe in a matter of 5 minutes of scrolling. Finding new and creative ideas is a plus, but determining how much is too much can be stressful… and it’s usually your budget that will make the final decision.

Wedding websites- I would have been all over this as a Bride to Be! You can create them to match your wedding colors and themes, give the background on how you and your future spouse met and what you hope the future will hold, introduce your bridal party, allow guests to RSVP on line (remember having to MAIL YOUR RSVP?!?!) take dance song requests for the reception and SO. MUCH. MORE. It’s an awesome way to communicate details and get everyone excited for the wedding day – color me green!

*THE BAD/UGLY*

Sh!t is expensive these days. Seriously. Even from 3 years ago – the cost increase has been incredible and it’s truly unfortunate how it effects every single aspect of the event. Put your budget following hats on – and get ready – it can be done!!!

Just because we are related… making a guest list is super tricky. Trying to remain at or below a specific number of attendees is actually painful. Should they have a plus one? Have you talked to this cousin in the last 2 years? Do you even have this person’s cell number – if not, how close are you really?! Many people will take offense if not invited – these are typically people that have not planned a wedding in the past. We are doing our absolute best to be respectful while filling the seats with people that are invested and supportive in the lives of the future Bride and Groom. It’s a hot button for sure.

In my mind, this is a plus, but many see the lack of traditional aspects at a reception as a negative. Fewer speeches, no bouquet or garter toss, etc. I love the fact that each event is so unique to each couple nowadays. If a tradition doesn’t hold special meaning to you – don’t include it. Fill your day with what will bring you joy – even if Grandma might be miffed (she’ll get over it). One of my least favorite sentences is “But we’ve always done it that way.” Just because things have been done a certain way in the past doesn’t mean you have to continue down that path – tweak it and make it your own – or eliminate it!

All in all, planning a wedding isn’t for the weak. I’m grateful that i’m just their biggest cheerleader and there for a hug when they hit the wall. Nothing is ever easy – but I know these weddings will be unforgettable and I am blessed to be a part of them, for better or for worse!