5 THINGS YOU CAN DO "WITHOUT" AT YOUR WEDDING

As soon as the wedding planning starts, you are bombarded with advice and the never-ending list of things to be done. Every well-meaning parent and friend will feel inclined to remind you of all the traditional wedding must-do or must-haves to put on your list. But, are they all really necessary? Today's couples say 'no'! 

Just because your parents had a guest book and your best friend had 10 bridesmaids, doesn't mean you need to do the same. In fact, here's what I tell our couples all the time: It's your wedding! You do you! There is no set of rules stating you must do everything that's ever been done. Honestly, who wants to go to a cookie-cutter wedding again and again? Your guests certainly won't.

​So, if you're looking to take some things off your list right away, here are a few things you can probably skip. 

Skip: The Flower Girl and Ring Bearer
Yes, they are adorable! But, it is nerve wracking getting them to dress up and perform! The cuteness lasts only for about a minute walking down the aisle. That is, if they even make it down the aisle. The meltdown usually happens about a minute before ceremony time and the wrestling, begging, and bribing begins. So, unless you have someone's kids that absolutely have to be a part of the wedding party, there's no need to put yourself, the kids, and their parents through the stress. Instead, take some pictures with the kids later and everyone will have a much better day. 

Skip: The Guestbook 
A traditional guestbook isn't really necessary. In fact, you probably won't look at it ever again and if you did, you may not even recognize half the names in it! There are alternatives to a guest book, and that's fine if you'd like to have a piece of artwork in your home with your guests names all over it. But, most couples say the guestbook (even the alternative) is something that gets put away and never looked at again. Instead, set out an instant camera or enjoy the photos of your guests that will most likely be captured by your photographer. 

Skip: Personalizing Everything 
Napkins, cups, favors, tags... once you get started, it may be hard to stop. Go ahead and add a monogram or special bar cups, but know when to stop. Your guests know who's wedding they are attending. You really don't have to keep reminding them. Save some money, and the extra steps, and skip it! Instead, subtle touches like a monogrammed pillow or bar-front will wow your guests without overdoing it. 

Skip: Packaged Favors
On the same note, favors are one of those things that couples put a lot of time and money into and then realize that they could have done without them. I very often have to pack up tons of leftover favors that nobody wanted or forgot to take with them. If you do decide to do favors, don't feel like you need to put your name on it. Sending your guests off with a small favor is a nice touch, but they'll probably enjoy the candle/coaster/treats just as much without your names on it. Instead, here's what guests do enjoy: something edible! Set up desserts to go, like a cookie bar, donut station, midnight snacks, popcorn, waters or a soda bottle for the ride home. Those are always a hit with guests! ​

Skip: The garter and bouquet toss
The awkward announcement for all the single ladies to get on the dance floor ​makes most people cringe. Don't pressure your friends into fighting for the bouquet that they don't really want to catch. Instead, opt for a subdued, lucky bouquet toss (where even the grandmas can line up to catch), an anniversary dance (for the longest married couples), or talk to your DJ about alternatives. 

Remember, it's your wedding. Include what you like and skip what you don't like. Work with your wedding planner to make your day special and unique to you. You'll be glad you did! 

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