When I was newly engaged, I used to dream about two specific moments at my future wedding:
- Walking down the aisle
- Waltzing into the ballroom as Mr. and Mrs. Peterman
Big reality check: there is an entire DAY before the MOMENT of exchanging “I Do’s.”
My mom called me yesterday to chat after she had met with Andrew, the head of the wedding venue. They gathered in New Jersey to discuss a general timeline for the day. There are appropriate time slots for everything and anything bridal: hair, makeup, snacking, pictures, the huge reveal and so forth. Actually, when all is said and done, there is an entire day before the wedding even begins. Timing is key.
Don’t stress, brides-to-be. Luckily, the wedding planner will handle each chapter of the day in collaboration with the venue. I just heard some unexpected news: apparently, in my case, the bride does not need to attend the rehearsal before the ceremony! Please refer to the ALL CAPS line in the e-mail I have copied below:
Evidence of my pardon (reading this feels even better than being excused from jury duty!)
The best part of this e-mail, aside from the use of caps, is the following line: “It is her time to rest and a get a snack and fix makeup or whatever.” Clearly only the mother of the bride understands that her daughter will need a break to refresh and refuel before the ceremony. She may also need time to upload her very first wedding instagram with the appropriate hashtag: #meetthepetermans.
At first, I was slightly jealous that my groom and his groomsmen will have the morning off. They will most likely stay up late after the rehearsal dinner, sleep in, and hide away in the man cave at the venue. About one hour before pictures begin they will shower, shave and appear promptly looking better than ever.
After attending my makeup trial, however, I realized that the preparations for the big day are where most memories are made. Brides shouldn’t waste one minute of the day! I can already imagine wearing my silk robe with the crystal bride logo on the morning of the wedding. All my bridesmaids will be giggling in the bridal suite, listening to music, snapping pictures of our glowing faces and basking in the beauty of the BIG day.
Doing my duties as a bridesmaid for Lisa, the beautiful bride.
(Lisa, now that you’re my bridesmaid, I’ll ask you to secure my jewels in the bridal suite 😉
