More and more, the Internet is interfering with a number of aspects of the wedding planning process and a couple’s wedding day. Curious to know how to avoid internet-induced wedding woes? Listen up:
- Photographic pressure. Don’t get us wrong…we love using Pinterest boards to collect ideas. But we’ve also found that these boards can stifle a couple’s creativity and give them unrealistic expectations on “look” versus cost. We suggest using Pinterest only for inspiration and putting your personal touch on your event with the guidance of vendors who know how to work within your budget.
- Negative Nellies. Many couples won’t purchase anything without reading reviews, but it’s so important to read them with an open mind. Some bad reviews just aren’t fair or logical. Don’t miss out on working with a wonderful vendor based on the ranting of one or two dissatisfied customers. We suggest that you look at the big picture, such as whether the reviews are mostly good and how the vendor responded to negative reviews. Also, ask a potential vendor about a negative review that concerns you. You might be surprised at the response.
- Message Boards. There are a number of websites and social media groups where engaged couples share information. Often participants offer helpful advice and insights, but sometimes there are people who only stir up trouble. These naysayers can cause other couples all kinds of stress and worry. We suggest that if you choose to participate on one of those boards, don’t take negativity to heart. You can refer to your team of vendors for advice.
- Aspiring Photographers. Picture this: just as you and your new spouse share your first kiss as a married couple, your photographer can’t get a shot of the moment because your guests are blocking the aisle, taking pictures with their smartphones. Can you imagine the disappointment when you realize you don’t have that shot from the professional you hired because guests got in the way? We suggest having an “unplugged” wedding. Allow your guests to enjoy the festivities with no distractions and your vendors to do their jobs.
- Spoiled Surprises. You might be amazed at how often wedding surprises are ruined by social media. A groom seeing a picture of his future spouse before the wedding because a wedding attendant posted a photo on Facebook, for example. We suggest that you and your significant other stay off the grid throughout the wedding day so you can truly enjoy every moment.
- Out-of-Control Budgets. One of the most challenging things we encounter with couples is insecurity about whether their wedding will be as perfect as they hope because they can’t afford the dream weddings they have seen online or on television. We suggest that throughout your planning you keep in mind that every couple’s wedding is special and beautiful. Your wedding day is about celebrating your love for one another. That’s all that matters.
Do you have any thoughts on how the internet is affecting your wedding plans? Please reach out to us in the comments!
