I know what you're thinking. How can this book go on and on aD0Ut now t0 prepare for and organize a perfect wed-ding and then mention the need to expect impending disaster?
You've dreamed of this day. You planned for it in exacting detail, to the point that every moment runs through your mind like an Oscar-winning movie. So, with all your notes, your memos, and your endless instruction sheets, how can a blessed thing go wrong?
As Rod Serling opened every episode of the Twilight Zone, . . . here is your special day, "submitted for your approval."
You wake up on your wedding day with a stress blister on your mouth. It's raining. Four guests have called to cancel, but one couple has left word that they have to bring their six kids. The hair salon just called — your stylist is out sick. Your mother is crying. You throw up your cereal. It's still raining. The flower girl's mother is on the phone — the sweet little child has smeared peanut butter all over her $200 designer dress and refuses to wear anything but her "Barney the dinosaur" nightshirt. A bridesmaid shows up on your doorstep — she broke up with her boyfriend last night, who just happens to be her bridal party partner. Can you rearrange the couples, please, oh, please? Your mother's still crying. The dog was just sprayed by a skunk. Your little brother says you're ugly. Now you're crying. Did you just hear thunder? You spill your coffee every time the phone rings. One of the ushers is on the phone — his dress shoes squeak; can he wear sneakers? Your mother manages to dry her tears and find you a hairstylist. She's your Great Aunt Millie who hasn't practiced her trade since Elvis cut his first record. It's still raining. Another bridesmaid calls — she has an abscessed tooth, and the only time her dentist can see her is two hours before the wedding — but don't worry, she'll be there. You rearrange the bridal party a second time. Lightning strikes and the dog dashes under your bed, dragging your wedding veil with him. The lights go out. It's still raining. Your father is bathing the dog in tomato juice. The rest of your bridesmaids show up. The maid of honor will be there soon — one of the girls saw her car being towed on the interstate. The best man calls — he can't find the groom. Aunt Millie shows up with a tiger-striped drawstring bag full of sponge rollers. It's pouring out. Finally, the maid of honor arrives. She walked six blocks in the rain, holding her dress over her head. But relax — your little brother just put the dress in the dryer. You throw up for what you hope is the last time, and get ready. Luckily, the maid of honor fits in your old prom gown. The photographer arrives. At least he has his camera. You line up for pictures. The dog runs in and shakes all over everyone. It's definitely time to go. At least the limo driver has an umbrella — you know because he accidentally poked you in the eye with it. You get to the church. You start down the aisle. Where is the groom? Oh, there he is! Guess what — he fainted . . .
Okay, okay, so no bride has ever experienced a wedding day disaster such as this. But in my many years of wedding planning, these kinds of mishaps have really occurred. It is important to realize that things will happen beyond your control! Now, I'm not referring to gross negligence. That is totally inexcusable. I'm referring to the little mishaps that come and go without too much fuss, like a broken heel, or a forgotten garter. Expect it, conquer it, and laugh. No small problem is ever going to destroy your day.
But let's pretend that your reception coordinator comes to you with a real problem. Don't scream, fuss, fume, or faint. Allow him or her to explain how the facility is going to make amends. And if the solution is acceptable, let it simply blow over.
And what if it isn't acceptable? What if the facility is definitely not coming through with something as promised, and you rationally know that the mistake shouldn't have happened. Now, I know it sounds difficult, but do the best you can with the situation. When you .get back from your honeymoon, you can bring your complaints to the executive manager of the facility. And whatever happens, don't let it ruin the rest of your day!
Whatever happens on your wedding day (and may it be as minor as a brief rain shower, which, by the way, is good luck!) always remember that you have the strength of family, the devotion of friends, and the love of a special someone "from this day forward"!
You will be a beautiful bride. You will have a beautiful day. There is no doubt in my mind.
My best to you both in your future together as husband and wife. May you share good health, prosperity, and happiness all the days of your lives!
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