Say 'I do' to shared planning - wedding expert shares tips for involving family and friends

Amy Greenshields, wedding expert at Card Factory has shared 7 tips to help you let your loved ones contribute.

Asking for help can be hard but getting friends and family involved in wedding planning can not only lighten the load but will also make them feel included and valued. Wedding planning contains many different elements, from table designs and seating charts to your floral bouquet, everything must be accounted for. A bride normally has the most influence over everything wedding-related, leading to as state of overwhelming stress. Why not share out the responsibilities – even the little ones can have a job!

1. Open Communication
Amy says: "First of all, you need to understand your own planning style - are you a type A or type B? This will help you understand how to communicate the type of help you want. Once you've established this, clearly communicate what tasks or areas of the wedding you would like them to assist with and those that you want to keep for yourself. Let them know if you've been especially looking forward to doing something in particular."

2. Delegate Tasks
Amy continues: "Assign specific tasks based on people's interests, skills, and availability. Play to people's strengths - if someone loves crafting, they could help with DIY decorations, while a friend with a keen eye for fashion would be best placed to assist with dress shopping and planning what the wedding party will wear."

3. Set Boundaries
Amy explains: "While it's great to have help, make sure you are setting clear boundaries to avoid any misunderstanding or conflict. Make sure that you are clear when you communicate your vision for the wedding and any non-negotiable aspects. If someone suggests something that you don't like, simply emphasise that you were really excited to do it in another way."

4. Plan opportunities for participation
Amy shares: "Why not host wedding planning parties or gatherings where friends and family can help with tasks such as assembling invitations, creating centrepieces, or planning the seating arrangement. You can spend a fun Saturday afternoon with loved ones getting things ready by turning it into a social occasion."

5. Accept help gracefully
Amy explains: "When family and friends offer to help, accept their offers graciously, even if it's not exactly what you had in mind. Remember that their intentions are to support you and they want you to be happy so if you're not sure about something, speak up. After all, it is your day!

6. Express gratitude
Amy details: "Show your appreciation for their help by thanking everyone who helps. Small gestures like sending a personalised thank you card or treating them to dinner can go a long way in expressing your gratitude. It's also a nice idea to acknowledge all the help you've received during the big day."

7. Respect their limits
Amy says: "Understand that not everyone may be able to contribute in the same way due to time, financial constraints, or other commitments. Respect their limits and appreciate whatever help they can offer. It can be hard to ask for help but doing it in a respectful manner will go a long way."

For more inspiration, explore wedding decorations, supplies & accessories, here: https://www.cardfactory.co.uk/wedding/