Posts Tagged: Edmonton Wedding Expert

11/21/11

Top 10 Wedding MC Tips

Being the MC at a wedding is a great honour but it can also be a bit scary. Here are some tips to help you prepare for this special role.

Top 10 Wedding MC Tips

  1. Prepare well in advance so you aren’t in a panic the week of the wedding. Type your script and read it back to yourself in the mirror to make sure it flows.
  2. Know the reception itinerary (speak to the bride and groom or the wedding planner to get this in advance). The best MCs keep things running smoothly and on time.
  3. Inform the wedding planner about any special touches or A/V requirements in advance.
  4. Arrive at the reception early to do a sound check. Speak clearly into the mic while holding it approximately 15 cm away from your mouth.
  5. Keep your comments and stories short and sweet.
  6. Keep guests informed throughout the evening. Give them 10-15 minute warnings before important events occur (eg. dinner, speeches, dance, cake cutting).
  7. Ensure the caterer / servers are aware when you are beginning speeches so that they don’t disrupt guests by clearing tables.
  8. When introducing speakers, mention something personal about them and/or about their relationship to the bride and groom. Learn how to pronounce their names before the wedding.
  9. Don’t have too many drinks before and during dinner. Even though you may be nervous, keeping a clear head is important.
  10. Avoid embarrassing subjects and information that can’t be taken back. If you’re unsure about a joke or topic always check with the bride and groom, close family members or the wedding planner.

 

Good luck – you’ll do great!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

 

09/19/11

Wedding Thank You Speech Guideline

Everyone wants to hear from the bride + groom on their special day. Take this time to express gratitude to all the people who contributed to your wedding – whether through emotional or financial support.

I can’t stress how important it is to prepare your speech ahead of time – don’t leave it to the last minute! Simply jotting down a few notes will help ensure you don’t forget anyone in the heat of the moment. Here is a guideline for consideration:

  • Thank guests for coming
  • Special thanks to out-of-town guests, especially those who have travelled a long way
  • Make mention of special people who could not be at the wedding or who have passed away
  • Minister / officiant
  • Venue / venue manager / chef / serving staff
  • Wedding vendors, such as the photographer, musicians, etc.
  • Ushers
  • Ceremony readers / candle lighters
  • Guestbook attendants
  • Emcee(s)
  • Friends or family members who have helped with wedding preparations (eg. aunt made cake, cousins helped assemble invitations)
  • Wedding party: bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl(s), ring bearer(s)
  • Parents
  • Thank each other

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner

06/16/11

Planning Your Backyard Wedding

I recently wrote an article for Edmonton Show Home Magazine about what to consider when holding a backyard wedding or event. As the summer season is upon us, I thought it would be a perfect time to share these tips.

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Backyard Wedding Tips

You’re engaged, you have a gorgeous new home, and getting married in your own backyard sounds like the perfect way to celebrate! A backyard wedding is personal and intimate, but it’s not without challenges. There are several factors to consider before forging ahead.

Backyard Basics:

  • A large, empty lawn can be deceiving – involve an expert to evaluate your space. Once you add tables, chairs and a dance floor you may be surprised with your yard’s capacity and viability for an event.
  • Music, microphones, heaters, fans and lighting – weddings require power! Does your yard have sufficient access to electricity or will you need to rent a generator?
  • Consider parking limitations in your area. Will there be enough space for all your guests to park? You may wish to hire parking attendants to assist with this on your wedding day.
  • Research any special permits you will require to hold a private event at your residence and purchase sufficient liability insurance.

You’ve done the leg work and your beautiful backyard looks like it will be the perfect space for your soirée. What’s next?

  • Hire help. You want to enjoy your wedding day so let others handle decorating, bartending, catering, serving and clean-up. Hiring professionals will allow you to avoid placing this burden on family and friends.
  • Where are the washrooms? If you don’t like the idea of guests coming in and out of your home to use the washrooms consider renting portable toilets.
  • Have a ‘Plan B’. Weather in Alberta is unpredictable – be prepared for the worst case scenario. Rent extra tents in case of rain, heaters for chilly evenings and fans to help cool down a hot day.
  • Be a good neighbour. If neighbours aren’t invited but may be affected by your wedding (more traffic/cars parked on the street, noise late into the evening) it’s courteous to let them know you’re hosting a big event.
  • Consider guest comfort. Use your wedding invitations to inform guests that they will be attending an outdoor wedding so they can prepare accordingly. Having sunscreen, fans, bug repellent, lap blankets and umbrellas on hand will make you the ideal host.

Backyard Wedding Tips

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You can pick up your own complimentary copy of Edmonton Show Home Magazine in the red Media Classified boxes throughout Edmonton.

Happy Planning!

Jennifer
Edmonton Wedding Planner