I don't like the term 'Wedding Party'. I like to know my clients have a team behind them.

I believe there is a lovely balance to be found when picking your #ushers #groomsmen #bridesmaids. In an ideal world I would try to tick off this attributes:

- The Kind One - Someone to listen to your worries and keep you feeling chilled and not overwhelmed.

- The Married One - Not a know it all but someone with a bit of experience to bring into the plans.

- The Fun One - Funny and good energy, keeping you smiling and laughing through the event.

- The Sensible One - Always on the look out for potential issues and has your back.

Traditionally there is roles for team members. You don't have to stick with this, as with many wedding traditions in my view, but this could work for you:

Hen / Stag Do's - Hand it over or get help with planning and hosting these fun pre-wedding celebrations.

Catering - Can certain team members help with either the cooking / serving / cleaning for any meal time not being osrted by caterers?

Hosting - Greeting everyone, showing people where to go / where loos are, taking gifts / coats etc. Generally being on hand for the guests.

Taskmasters - Who is checking speakers? Who can play the right music at the right time for you? Who can persude the Flowergirl to walk down the aisle? Who can get your pet dog out on a walk before the ceremony? Who can move the tables at the end of the dining part? Who can put your bouquets in water and display them nicely? Who can keep checking on Granny (fed/watered/warm/happy)?...

Lean on them! (If you don't feel you can by the way, don't panic. There are pro's like me to help with all of that or spread the net further into the guest pool!)

Your personal troop is one thing but the pro's you've added to the event take some choosing too. For every supplier you invest in, I would suggest bearing in mind the following, beyond capability and budget:

Personalities - If they are going to show their face to you or the guests, have you met them? Do they blend well with the senses of humour and sensibilities of the group?

Dress code - Does their level of pride in their appearance match your expectations or will they stand out?

Banter - Are they the right level of quiet or chat for the group? Some with good banter may keep Uncle Bob entertained for a while while too much chat may be off putting for quiet Uni fiend.

Flexibility - If the S hits the F do they have the adaptabilty to work with the situation?

Good luck in creating this dream team. It does make a difference to the overall vibe of the day and memories made, both essential elements to any event.

If you are stuck or worried about who you are relying on, get in touch. We can talk through the concerns and make a practical plan around what can be an emotional issue. We got you.

Happy planning!

A x