Some disasters can’t be avoided, even if it is your wedding day. But there is always something that can be done, even if that something ends up being just to roll with the punches. Here are some of the top wedding day disasters and how to fix them.
Rain
This one is particularly common, considering we live in Ireland. Firstly, it’s important to remember that you can’t change the weather, so it’s better to embrace it. Believe it or not, it’s actually good luck to have rain on your wedding day, it’s a sign of fertility. No matter what time of the year you’re getting married, make sure you plan for rain, especially if a significant amount of your celebration will be outside.
Wilting flowers
Not something brides usually think about, but your bouquet of flowers is just that – a bouquet of flowers. The same kind that die in the vase at home when not given water. And with all the moving around and being indoors or under sunshine, your bridal bouquet is under a lot of strain for the day and it is in danger of wilting. If you have time to think about this before you even choose them, find out which flowers are more durable against heat and less likely to bruise throughout the day. If it’s already the big day, remember to keep them hydrated as much as possible throughout the day. Stick them in a nearby vase of water when you’re not using them. If you’re done with them for the evening, it’s a good idea to stick them in your room or somewhere safe and cool. That reception can get very stuffy for flowers.
Missing rings
It has happened. The best man can’t find the rings, or more typically, has put them somewhere safe so that he won’t lose them, and then forget to actually take them to the church. First things first: Don’t panic! We know it looks bad, but if you have no rings at the ceremony, borrow a pair from someone else for the moment you need them and replace them with your rings later. They might even bring you good luck.
Stains on your dress
When you think about it, how often do you spill food and drink on yourself, let alone when you’re in a big white dress? While this sounds like one of the biggest disasters, it can be solved. If you’ve packed your emergency kit properly, one thing you should definitely have is white chalk. White chalk actually does wonders for covering over stains. The most important thing is to dab it gently with sparkling water as soon as the stain happens to lift as much of it as possible. Then let it dry and cover it with white chalk.
Sound system disaster
Whether you’re bringing your own or using the hotel’s microphone, sometimes, little disasters happen. If you’re a bride that doesn’t have to give a speech then try not to stress too. You don’t have to project your voice. However, when it is speech time and you find yourself sans mic, talk to your band. Chances are they’re probably setting up already and will have spare equipment you can borrow. If it’s not feasible to bring the spare microphone into dinner, simply move the speeches to where the band are and have them just before the first dance. If all else fails, your speech-givers better be prepared to enunciate.
Uninvited guests
Believe it or not, it does happen. You probably were as clear as you could possibly be on your invitation that only specified guests get a plus one. However, that one friend or relative still decided to come with a date and now there are more guests than chairs. As with all day-of disasters, try not to panic. Talk to your wedding co-ordinator, planner or just delegate to your chief bridesmaid to talk to the catering staff about organising an extra chair and some food. After that, it’s not your problem.
Transport problems
Sometimes cars experience problems that can't be helped. Particularly in winter and extreme temperatures, cars can suffer a disaster that results in the car not starting. If this happens to any of the most important cars, i.e. the newlyweds, the bridal party, or the parents, it’s the end of the world, but you will need to find alternative transport. Find out who has room in their car and how much. Chances are someone will have enough space for everyone. If you have time to plan for such an disaster before the big day, make sure you have a contingency plan for a car breakdown.
Image credits: Rain: Katya Koliban | Bouquets: Donal O'Doherty Photography | Ring: Christine Chang Photography | Bride: Lima-Conlon Photography | First dance: Nick Murray Photography | Invitation: Brosnan Photographic | Car: Brklyn View Photography