Ten Wedding Details Everyone Forgets but You Should Remember

Make a schedule. Even the most laid-back bride owes it to her wedding party and family members to make known the events of the weekend. A schedule can be as general as listing things to do and the time frame in which to do them, to plotting out exactly where everyone needs to do when. This schedule should be sent out at least a week before people start arriving. Bridesmaids can plan for getting ready - and planning surprises they may have in store for the bride - and the whole event will be more likely to go off well and on time if everyone is on the same page. Plus, it keeps the bride from being peppered with constant questions about the order of the weekend.

Assign tasks. Figure out which bridesmaids can handle real responsibilities, such as bustling your dress or bringing snacks to the church, and give all them all the things you're tempted to do yourself. You will absolutely not have time or presence of mind to take care of details on the wedding day. Then, give less responsible bridesmaids tasks such as keeping up with your lipstick, putting on your shoes, or being the "mood setter" - keeping everyone happy and calm with music and enthusiasm.

Pack early. As annoying as it is to live out of a suitcase, pack what you can as early as you can. Pack a little clutch of wedding jewelry and put it aside so it's ready to grab on your way to the church. Put your dress, shoes, undergarments, and veil in one closet all together. Start a box of stuff that goes to the church, such as the unity candles, the guest book, and the programs, then add to it as you think of or pick up things. Not only will this save a frantic last-minute search for missing items, but you will also think of things you need to buy or collect you may not have thought of when everything was scattered.

Rest. Once a task is complete, thirty more tasks wait to be done. Make up your mind to get extra sleep the last week before the wedding, so if you have trouble sleeping the night before the big event, you will still be well rested. Also, as people start arriving, let everyone know you will be taking "breaks" throughout the day to steal away by yourself to just lie down and get some quiet. Otherwise, by the wedding and reception, you will be so worn down and tired of mingling, you won't enjoy the day itself.

Plan your food. The months before the wedding is the time to lose weight. The week before the wedding should be focused on eating nutritiously with two purposes: the first, to be nourished, and second, to avoid bloating and sickness. Peanut butter crackers, turkey and cheese wraps, raw veggies and fruits, light chicken and lots of water are good choices. These are especially great snacks as you get ready for the wedding because they will maintain your energy and sugar levels and keep you from passing out in hunger. Avoid breads, heavy carbs, anything milk- or cream-based, and anything spicy. When you're married, try out all your new recipes; they week before, stick to small, bland meals that will strengthen you without keeping you in the bathroom.

Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water if you're trying to lose weight in the months before your wedding, but drink lots of it the week of your wedding, as well. Water keeps you from getting so tired, it cleanses your system and makes you feel better, and it helps your skin and hair look their best. It also helps regulate your temperature and helps you feel full - both huge helps on the wedding day.

Plan fun. Even the most sensitive family members can be demanding when the wedding nears, and there is always more to do than can be accomplished. Strategically plan intermissions of fun in the midst of the craziness, and make them priorities. Whether your idea of fun is a picnic with your hubby-to-be, shopping with your sister, or going for a drive alone, make sure to kick back and have lots of fun. Not only will your memories of your wedding be sweeter, but those times will recharge you for the work you need to do: a good belly laugh relaxes your muscles, and the distraction will help you focus better when you return. One caution, though: be cautious with the alcohol. It can slow down your efficiency and make you feel bad, which is, of course, counterproductive.

Leave time for the little things. Getting hair, makeup, and nails done are big to-do's, but you also need time to put on lotion, nylons, deodorant (and let it dry), and jewelry. Little things like that add up, and you don't want to forget that heirloom necklace for the pictures because you were running late. And you definitely don't want to forget deodorant.

Remember mementos. Have a bridesmaid or friend collect all the memorable items from the day, such as a program, your place card, a piece of a pew bow, and a favor. You won't have time to even think about these details, but you'll be glad to save them to remember the details.

Plan beyond the wedding. Ideally, the bride and groom can ride off into the sunset after the reception and forget all planning and all details while the family and friends clean up and return to life as normal. However, that's not reality for everyone. Think through what needs to be done after you leave, and assign those tasks to specific people. For instance, who will return the tuxedos? Who will take your dress to be cleaned and preserved? What will happen to your flowers? Who will send in the marriage license? Where do you want to presents taken, and who will get them there? Be clear to avoid a lot of extra work when you get back in town.