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When it comes to your wedding day, expecting the unexpected is a key skill to learn. Snafus do happen, and the best way to ensure a merry wedding is by determining how to overcome any issues that may arise. Here are four times it's alright to freak out about your wedding, and the solutions for dealing with them from expert wedding planners David Tutera and Mindy Weiss.
1. The Passing of a Loved One
Perhaps the most distressing events to occur in tandem with a wedding is the death of a loved one. Weiss has encountered such circumstances with several of her brides, and helped each to enjoy a heartfelt and celebratory affair. If the goal is to include an ailing loved one in the ceremony, Weiss suggests speaking with your planner about alternative options and focusing on locations and accents that can be available immediately.
2. A Fierce Storm
The weather is fickle, and outdoor festivities are especially difficult to anticipate months or a year in advance. However, Weiss has dealt with inclement conditions on more than one occasion and managed to create a breathtaking and memorable event nonetheless with her contingency plans. Weiss suggests keeping a backup location on hand. In addition, Weiss reminds brides, "When planning your date, look at the weather patterns from years past for that location. Also remember it's about the love, not the weather."
3. Delayed or Cancelled Travel Plans
Learning that an important guest has encountered travel delays or cancellations can provoke anger or tears. However, there are simple solutions for a delayed flight or cancelled train. Tutera suggests, "If grandma misses her flight, task a close family member with helping her to book a new one and arranging for a car service to get her to the wedding once she lands. She may be late for the ceremony, but at least she'll be able to celebrate at the reception!" Also consider video streaming. "Video streaming has taken our celebration world by storm," recommends Weiss. "No memories lost, no words unheard."
4. A Significant Stain on Your Wedding Gown — or a Minor Health Crisis
A stain on your wedding gown can seem like the end of the world. "Be sure to have a bridal emergency kit on hand for any possible mini-mergencies throughout the day," Tutera says. "Prior to your wedding, compile a bag with travel size items like bobby pins, safety pins, Band-Aids, hairspray, Tylenol, tums, snacks for energy, double stick tape, and clear nail polish for stocking, and delegate a member of your bridal party to have it with them all day, should you or anyone need it," Tutera says.