Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Put your friends and family to use!

You know that Aunt Mary bakes wonderful cakes, Uncle Joey is a closet shutterbug, and your fiance's cousin Moe loves to crank up those turntables. Why not ask them to perform some simple (or detailed) wedding tasks?


Utilizing the skills and special abilities of freinds and family will add a special touch to your wedding reception, include more participants in this special occasion, and of course save you some money. But before you go asking for favors, here are a few things to consider:


* Be sure you feel comfortable asking some of your guests to work at the wedding. Chances are, those close to you won't mind helping and will be flattered that you asked, but as the party's ultimate hostess, you should make sure these guests won't feel left out. Seat them with people they know and feel at ease with--while they may have to perform some tasks during dinner and dancing, they should be afforded the opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves also.


* Establish the responsibilities your friends and relatives will be taking up. Make sure you sit down with each person and discuss in detail what you would like for them to do. This way, there will be no confusion about what color the icing on your cake should have been, no poses left out during picture-taking, and no Macarena played after you specifically placed that song on the "NO PLAY" list! After all, you wouldn't hire any of your vendors without a thorough and detailed consultation, right? Just use that same rule for friends and family looking to help out.


* Make sure those you ask to help know what they are doing. While your Great-grandmother may have the best intentions of helping, she may not be your best choice for a videographer. Be sure your helpers feel comfortable with their tasks, and you feel comfortable with their performance.


* If your helpers are actual professionals or own a business in wedding-related fields, make sure you write up a valid contract (even if the service is being performed for free). This will ensure that you are on the same wavelength, as well as protect you from potential harm due to non-performance or mistakes. After the wedding, don't forget to recommend your friends and family to others.


* Finally, send a thank-you note--or even better, a small present or gift certificate. Show your appreciation--after all, you never know when you'll need help with the next important occasion!

No comments: