How do you involve the groom in the preparations?
It’s a common misconception that the bride is the only one interested in wedding planning. However, it’s all about finding the groom strengths. If everyone has tasks they enjoy, the preparations will go smoothly.
Here’s an article that can help you as a couple to manage the organization of the big day together. It’s sure to reduce stress and increase your sense of togetherness.
The first step... make way for your partner!
Gentlemen, you are indispensable in many ways. But the first step is for your significant other to make room for you. Because, let’s face it, by default, the bride-to-be tends to take everything naturally.
Then she asks for your opinion, then solicits you here and there, even though you’re not really involved in the project.
So it’s important to take your place right from the start. Even if she seems to have everything under control, soon the logistics will be more arduous, and her partner will be a great help.
After all, it’s YOUR day.
What are everyone's strengths?
You’ve now gained your most precious ally (your partner) in wedding planning. Now it’s time to divide up the tasks so you don’t forget anything. The best way to do this is to choose them according to your strengths.
That way, you’ll both be more efficient, and your partner will keep his or her interest instead of taking a powder. For example:
- Is the groom better with numbers than you are? Why not put him in charge of the budget?
- Is he a good negotiator? He could take charge of communicating with the various service providers and suppliers (florist, photographer, DJ or orchestra, decorator, limousine, accommodation, etc.);
- He knows everyone’s relationships and how to arrange people around tables. Leave this task to him, and the atmosphere will be divine!
Be sure to discuss boundaries to avoid conflicts
If both partners are involved, it’s best to plan ahead, since this means determining how or who will make which decision. Otherwise, the wrong decision will lead to conflict.
In the same way, there are boundaries to respect, which you’ll need to establish, and within which you’ll need to support each other.
Budget
The budget is both the “nerve of the war” and the Achilles’ heel of wedding planning. It must be established from the outset and adhered to as closely as possible.
So, if there’s a contract to be signed or modified, or a new expense to be incurred that hadn’t been foreseen, who’s going to agree? These are questions that need to be settled in advance.
Family & Friends
Your respective parents or close friends may try to interfere with your preparations. It’s essential that the two of you come up with a plan to respectfully dissuade them.
For example. You hadn’t planned to have a “bachelor” or “bachelorette” party. During a conversation with your friends, you change your mind, but don’t have the budget. However, your friends put pressure on you.
It’s up to you to decide what you want to do, within your limits and budget.
Tasks to do together without fail
You should know that certain tasks represent precious time spent as a couple. Make the most of it! For example :
- Buying gifts for guests;
- Book your honeymoon;
- Visit your reception hall;
- Book your caterer and take the time to look at all the menus;
- Taste your chosen menu and wedding cake;
Here are the meal formulas available at La Distinction
Other wedding preparations to get your man's hands dirty
Finally, it’s not a question of demanding that he take on half the tasks. It’s simply a question of commitment. It’s not the quantity that counts, but the willingness. Your spouse is probably more interested than you think, ladies.
Gentlemen, if you’re reading this, don’t hesitate to let him know by offering to help.
Here are just a few of the tasks that can be handed over to the man in charge, freeing her up from a few hours of logistics.
Sitting down to a glass of wine, coffee or whiskey, alone or in the company of your significant other:
- Contact your family to finalize the guest list;
- Take the lead in shopping for your attire and that of the groomsmen;
- Take charge of the DJ and music selection (after discussion with your wife, of course);
- Make a pre-selection of honeymoon destinations to surprise your partner;
- Prepare your vows, even if they’re short;
- Rent the car for the bride and groom;
- Book a couple’s massage so you can both relax.
Golden rule of wedding planning - think of something else
Ladies, wedding planning takes a lot of time. But life must go on. We also need to find time to talk about other things and get together with our spouse in a “normal” setting.
Have fun with the groom. Get out and about, plan enjoyable activities to ensure that the preparations remain a positive experience.
Good luck with your preparations!
