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Inside Zola

You sent your [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), and they were gorgeous, weren’t they? You got some compliments from your friends, a phone call from your grandparents, and your Instagram mentions were popping off. Everything was going as planned! But now, everything’s spiralling. 

Something, someone, or some event has caused the date of your wedding to change. We know what you’re going through is stressful and difficult but Zola is here to help. Marriage is a lifetime course on learning how to live in the moment, and lesson number one is learning how to gracefully pivot when things go awry. 

Whether your wedding date has been postponed, changed, adjusted, or pushed, your wedding is still going to happen and Zola has everything you need to make your wedding a success. 

## Change Of Plans
We know that changing plans is annoying, especially when those changes affect the day you’ve been planning your whole life. We’re here to tell you that everything is going to be OK! With your talent, and our resources, you can come out of this looking like a genius. Your job is to stay as cool as you’ve always been while we work behind the scenes to make it seem like this was all part of the plan. You are a champion wedding planner and now you get to put your incredible talents into action.

Especially when the planning gets complicated, you have to remember that this is going to be one of the greatest days of your life. When your wedding day happens—and it will happen—it will be amazing for two important reasons; neither of which have anything to do with the date it takes place. First, it will be wonderful because of the love you share with your partner, and second, it will be surreal because of the people gathered around you to celebrate your happiness.  

## Update what you want.
Weddings are fun, and planning is part of that fun. Sure licking envelopes and sending thank you notes can get a bit tedious, but for the most part, this is the greatest party you will ever attend and you are completely in charge. Even when things don’t go as planned, a wedding is as fun as you allow it to be. 

So what’s so fun about calling an audible and changing the date? Well for starters, you get to change anything you may have been upset about. Didn’t love the appetizer menu? Change it up! Had your heart set on a beautiful overbooked venue? Maybe it’s available now. 

A Change the Date is basically a free redo on anything you wanted to change but were locked into because of your date. Having to change the date may feel like a curse, but the freedom it allows you is a total blessing. Plus, Zola makes it easy to send out a wedding date change announcement with our fully customizable suite of [Invites + Paper](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper).

## Insider Tips For Wedding Success
Whether you are ready to pull the trigger on a new date or not, a change of date announcement is a great way to buy some extra time. Plus, sending out change the dates is a polite way to inform your guests that you care about their calendar while reminding them that you want your wedding to be a priority. Even if there is no set date, just a quick update is a classy, formal way to keep people excited and engaged. We’ll address some fun ways to break the news in just a bit, but for now here are some important steps for changing your date:

### Contact your venue.
When dealing with venues it’s crucial that you remain patient and pleasant. The easier you are to work with the more likely they are to give you preferential treatment. Plus if you’re willing to be flexible about changing your date you may even be able to work out a discounted price.

If your venue is being stubborn or stingy, call some other venues. Was there a venue you really wanted but weren’t able to book? Your luck may have recently changed. Whatever events that have turned your life upside down may be affecting others too so don’t be afraid to be daring while others are being timid. The key things to remember here are to be pleasant and flexible. Your date is already changing, use this opportunity to get everything you want without the need to be tied to a specific date. 

### Contact your caterer.
The foodservice industry is all too familiar with date changes, it’s part of the reason deposits are so popular amongst caterers. Your caterer does not want you to cancel your wedding, and most are amenable to helping you move your special day to a new date. 

Once you get a feel for the rough timeline of a new date, contact your caterer and ask them what their schedule looks like. Again, be patient and flexible to ensure you get the friendly service you deserve in return. 

### Announcing the Date Change
Now it’s time to announce the date change. There are so many fun ways you can share the news of a date change. Try to take bits and pieces of your personality and tie them into your announcement. Remember, your guests want to have fun and humor is a great way to remind them that you and your fiance are all about making fun a top priority. 

For example, are you or your spouse notoriously late? Send out an announcement like “Isn’t it just like us to be running late? We’re changing the date and it’s TBD!” Or, tie in one of your go-to excuses for being late for group activities like: “Traffic is so bad right now. Waze says we’re gonna be a couple months late ;)” 

__Here are some more of our favorite fun “change of date” announcements:__

- “We’re planning our forever... better late than never! Change of date TBD!”
- “Our date stood us up! Good thing we have each other! We’re changing the date to_____ see you there!”
- “The show must go on! We just need to find the understudy. New wedding date TBD!”
- “Our calendar never got the save the date we sent. Our new date is ______!”
- “If you think you’ve been going crazy, remember my fiance has had to deal with me changing the date of our wedding. Please save this new date!”
- “New date, same bride and groom. Join us on _____!”

__If you don’t want to go for a humorous approach, a standard please and thank you message goes a long way:__

- “Please join us on our new day______ .Thank you for being flexible.”
- “We hope you’re still able to join us, our date is now_______”
- “Thanks for all your patience, please save this new date in your calendar_____”
- “We’re excited to see you on our new day _____ ! Thank you for being part of our lives.”

However you choose to break the news, change of date notices are a must, especially if you have already sent out save the dates. Though you may be tempted to pull a fast one and send out the invites with updated date and time, be warned that a move like that could induce chaos. 

## Control the chaos.
Nobody wants chaos associated with their wedding, which is why sending out a change of date notice is crucial in preventing your wedding guests from being confused or misinformed. Do your guests, and yourself a favor and send another round of pre-invites letting people know that the plan has changed. This also gives your out-of-town guests ample time to adjust their travel arrangements so they can attend your beautiful wedding on its new date. 

We want you to remember that everyone who was planning a 2020 wedding is in the same boat. However, you have the resources and know-how to seize this opportunity. When the world finally gets back to normal, you'll be on cruise control after gracefully pivoting to a new date with the help of your change of date announcements. 

## Enjoy the ride.
Take solace knowing that one of the first things people are going to be able to do after quarantine is going to your wedding! Whatever you do is going to be amplified by the collective excitement of socializing again, and there is a real possibility your wedding may go down as the social event of the year. 

Hunger makes things taste better, absence makes the heart grow fonder, and weddings post-quarantine make history. So don't wait to make the wedding date change announcement, send out those “Change The Date” cards, and enjoy the ride.

A metal calligrapher's pen resting next to a wedding invitation envelope addressed using ink calligraphy

How to Address Wedding Invitations: Etiquette & Examples 

green and white wedding invitation on green background

Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide

Green themed wedding invitation on marble top

The Dos and Don'ts of Wedding Invitation Wording

How to Build a Wedding Website: Guide + Tips

couple walking in the street before wedding

A Guide to Postponing Your Wedding

Guests, Weddings, and Vaccines: What You Need to Know

How to Update Guests About Changes to Your Wedding

How to Change Your Wedding Date: Expert Tips and Tricks

Advice to make your wedding day go smoothly from start to finish. From ceremony timelines to wedding favor ideas to writing your vows, our experts help you plan the perfect wedding day.

### 2. Work with your officiant

Your officiant can provide practical advice on how to get started crafting your ceremony script, and some might even have an outline for you to work from. Since your officiant has most likely conducted their fair share of wedding ceremonies, they’re an excellent resource for any questions you might have.

### 3. Don’t procrastinate

While you certainly don’t need to memorize your wedding ceremony script, don't put it off until the last minute—especially if you plan on [writing your own vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows). Procrastinating until the week of your wedding can add a ton of pressure to an already hectic time, so do yourself a favor and get started early!

### 4. Consider the length of your script

While your wedding ceremony script should be whatever you want it to be, being mindful of time and length is something your guests will appreciate. Anything longer than 30 minutes might leave guests checking their watches! Once you’ve written a draft and have the chance to rehearse it, you’ll find that you can pack plenty of meaning and resonance in less than 15 minutes.

![modern-spin-on-reciting-vows](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5tAePFi5ZiqNmkelDuBBWP/bfa7f506e46743da3d10ecfc1560cc54/modern-spin-on-reciting-vows.jpg)

## Simple wedding ceremony script starter outline <a id="outline"> </a>

Now that you’ve read some ceremony script examples, you can confidently start writing your own! No matter what you decide to include, what matters most is that the words shared are from the heart and represent what your marriage means to you. Here’s an ultra-simple outline to help you start formulating your own wedding script for officiants to use. 

- Officiant’s welcome
- Short sermon to the congregation
- Charge to the couple
- Declaration of the intent to marry
- [Vows](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/history-of-wedding-vows)
- Ring exchange
- Pronouncement of marriage
- Conclusion and invitation to reception

## FAQs about wedding ceremony scripts <a id="faqs"> </a>

Find answers to any lingering wedding ceremony script questions below.

### How do I personalize my wedding ceremony script?

Start by nailing down the overall format of your script, including the order of the ceremony and the role of the officiant. Then weave in personal elements significant to you and your partner, such as customizing your vows, a special unity ceremony, or a reading that holds meaning. Remember, there’s no rule that says you have to follow a traditional wedding ceremony script.

### How do I start a wedding ceremony script?

Most wedding ceremony outlines start with the wedding officiant welcoming guests and thanking them for joining in the wedding day. Religious ceremonies may start with a reading from the Bible or whatever is customary for different faiths. That said, your ceremony script can begin however you like, whether that’s opening with a meaningful quote, poem, or endearing story about you and your partner.

### Where can I find wedding ceremony scripts?

The best place to find both religious and non religious wedding ceremony scripts is online. You can find downloadable pre-written scripts by searching for a specific religious denomination or the mood you want your ceremony to take. For extra inspiration, search for wedding ceremony videos on YouTube to get a feel for what different scripts sound like during a real ceremony.

### How long should the officiant speak at the wedding?

Your officiant wedding script should get straight to the point while adding personality. Talk to your celebrant about the parts that are most important to you, such as giving a [blessing to the couple](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-blessing). However, if the sermon isn’t essential to you, feel free to shorten it. The last thing you want to do is bore your guests, so concise yet interesting is best.

## Summarizing ceremony and officiant wedding scripts <a id="scripts"> </a>

Although there is a bit of protocol surrounding the order of service, there is a lot of freedom within with most scripts. If you’re particularly religious, you may want to chat with your priest, rabbi, or pastor about how to best adapt your ceremony. However, if you’re not planning on a religious ceremony, chat with your partner about expectations and how to go from expected to highly personal.

As you finish off your wedding planning, Zola is here to help every step of the way. Whether designing [custom wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper) or putting the final touches on your [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry), Zola has all the expert advice you’ll need to make your wedding vision come to life.


8 Wedding Ceremony Scripts to Borrow & Printables

__TLDR:__
- Practical things like snacks, water bottles, and a local map all add interest to wedding gift baskets.
- You can use totes, boxes, or baskets to hold your wedding welcome bag items.
- For out-of-town guests, have their welcome gifts ready as soon as they arrive—even waiting in their hotel room to surprise them.

## Why have wedding welcome bags?<a id="whyhave"> </a>

Wedding welcome bags are a great way to warmly greet [wedding guests](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/topic/wedding-guests) as soon as they arrive at your festivities. These gift bags let family and friends know that you’re grateful they’re able to share your special weekend with you. Plus, wedding welcome bags are filled with items that will make guests’ experiences as comfortable—and memorable—as possible. 

According to McKenna Folmar, wedding planner at [Events by McKenna](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/events-by-mckenna), welcome gifts can make your guests feel appreciated. "Wedding welcome bags are a delightful way to greet your guests, especially those who have traveled to join in your special day," she says. "They offer a warm, personalized touch that can make your loved ones feel appreciated right from the start."

It's no wonder that welcome bags are particularly popular for [destination weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/destination-wedding-checklist), but they’re also super common for local celebrations. They're a nice surprise for your wedding guests that can be waiting for them in their hotel room upon arrival. "Wedding welcome bags are more than just a thoughtful gesture; they’re a chance to make your guests feel taken care of and excited for the weekend ahead," says Folmar. 

Read on for our tips on how to build and how to package your wedding welcome bags—and when you should give them out to guests. 

## Ideas on what to put in wedding welcome bags<a id="ideasin"> </a>

According to Folmar, the essentials are always a great place to start. She says, "These are items that not only show thoughtfulness but also help make your guests’ experience smooth and enjoyable."

### 1. Welcome note
What would a wedding welcome bag be without a welcome note? Your note doesn’t need to be long—a simple, meaningful message is all that’s necessary. [Handwritten notes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-write-wedding-thank-you-cards) are always appreciated, but if time doesn’t permit, try to at least sign your names in ink. Don’t forget to include your wedding hashtag at the bottom of the note, too, or any other [social callouts](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/9-savvy-ways-to-use-social-media-at-your-wedding) you want to make. 

[Forever Moments](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/forever-moments--2) wedding planner, Brittany Poole also added her insight. "I highly recommend a hand written note for each bag," she says. Having the personalized touch of showing appreciation and adding specific anecdotes can make your guests feel extra special.

![Wedding Welcome Bag Notes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XGT7i0k49aVKt2BX3OFhL/e9641c188ee4a9dba6ebe4df9a323c39/Wedding_Welcome_Bag_Notes.jpg)

### 2. Itinerary
Even the simplest wedding needs a plan. "Including a simple wedding weekend itinerary ensures your guests are informed and know where they need to be and when," says Folmar. "This can be especially helpful for out-of-town guests who may not be familiar with the area." For getaways or multi-day events, a detailed itinerary is crucial. Letting guests know where they need to be and when saves them from texting or calling you, or continuously logging onto your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). 

### 3. Map
If you’re hosting a destination or an out-of-town wedding, include a map of the area and suggestions of things to do. "Providing a small guide to the area with maps, restaurant recommendations, or must-see attractions can help guests make the most of their time, especially if they have some downtime during the weekend," says Folmar. 

### 4. Contact list
We recommend also including a list of contacts. You can add local emergency numbers and the names and numbers of the best people to reach out to for any questions—you and your fiance will havé enough going on.

### 5. Snacks
It’s not a welcome bag if there’s no food. Well, it can be, but your guests will be happy to have their favorite snacks. Folmar says, "Go-to snacks like granola bars, nuts, pretzels, or candy offer a little something for guests to munch on in between meals." 

The welcome bag snack is also a great time to showcase a local treat, like homemade caramel squares or fresh shortbread cookies from a popular bakery. "If you want to get a bit fancier, local specialties like artisan chocolates or regional treats are a fun way to elevate this standard," adds Folmar.

![BluePhotoNYC InlineImage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2ET2WujqYArzqjKl4KtBV5/2017e7c56f62b9dce66c73f5a8325532/BluePhotoNYC_InlineImage_1080x720.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Blue Photo NYC

### 6. Water bottle—or two
This is a necessary staple. If your guests are staying in a hotel, they may not feel comfortable drinking tap water. Offer water bottles that they can bring with them to events or can graciously grab the morning after your reception. It’s a wedding after all—people will be celebrating. Folmars insight? "Whether guests are just arriving after a long journey or getting ready for a day of wedding festivities, having a bottle of water is always appreciated," she reveals.

### 7. Mints
Weddings are basically mixers for your guests. It’s a lot of small talk with a lot of people. Add in [passed hors d'oeuvres](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-tips-for-successful-cocktail-hour) and things can get, well, stale. Keep everyone fresh with a small pack of mints. Add a tin of your favorite mints and guests can throw them in their clutches or suit jackets for the night. 

### 8. Something personal 
Your wedding welcome bag should be an extension of you and your partner. So, add a memento that’s reflective of your relationship. If you’re a huge tea lover, give guests a bag of your favorite kind. If your partner has a notorious sweet tooth, include their favorite [chocolate bar](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wow-your-guests-with-a-delicious-wedding-dessert-bar). If you two are famous for your homemade jam, gift everyone a small jar. Include a little note or label to explain the item’s significance. 

"Personalized items such as monogrammed tote bags, candles, or even custom koozies give your guests a little something to remember the weekend by," says Folmar. "These extras show thoughtfulness and add an element of surprise."

![vahdam-teas-set](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3KSTT5UISXMg3vKPFSORFL/40b46d46f366626ffc3ed5f9b4e177bb/vahdam-teas-set.jpg)

### 9. Single-serving alcohol
Help guests get the [party started](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-bar-ideas) with a cute mini bottle of champagne, a can of a local craft beer, or a sparkling rosé. You can also gift a mini liquor bottle and a small mixer. For example, a nip of gin and a can of flavored tonic will set the evening off—or end it—right. Throw in a colorful paper straw and bottle openers for a decorative touch.

### 10. Beach towels
Having a waterside destination wedding? Your guests will love the idea of having a beach towel to take to the beach or pool. Destination wedding welcome bags are extremely fun for couples to curate. Just choose items that will aid your out of town guests throughout your wedding weekend. Gifts + a [beach wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/pros-and-cons-of-a-beach-wedding) always equals a win in our book.

### 11. Hangover kit
Having an open bar? Include a hangover kit in your welcome baskets. "Hangover kits are both practical and fun," suggests Folmar. "A mini hangover kit could include items like Advil, mints, an eye mask, and a hydrating drink or electrolyte powder to help your guests feel their best after a night of celebrating."

### 12. Seasonal items
Bordering on the practical, include season-specific items for the comfort of your guests. "For summer weddings, sunscreen, bug spray, and fans are great additions," recommends Folmar. "In the fall or winter, think about including cozy extras like a small blanket or hand warmers."

## How to package wedding welcome bags<a id="2"> </a>
Package your wedding welcome bags in a way that showcases your [wedding’s theme](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now) and your personality. If you’re getting hitched waterfront, for example, you may want a nautical-style tote with a rope handle. If your wedding is in a country garden, think floral-print paper bags with pastel ribbon. 

### 1. Gift bags
Vellum or craft paper bags are easy to personalize and decorate—and they’re budget-friendly. They also make packing and bringing them to your guests’ accommodations easy. Use a stamp or customized sticker to label each bag with your and your partner’s name and wedding date.

If you want something more playful, brand each bag with the [wedding hashtag](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/9-easy-ways-to-create-your-wedding-hashtag). Add tissue paper on top, and tie a ribbon around the bag’s handles to seal the gift. 

![Unsplash InlineImage 1080x720 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Ohw1ymX79s12z2bBdhOa0/422197e4daafbe545c496709223486c8/Unsplash_InlineImage_1080x720__1_.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Unsplash

### 2. Tote bags
Tote bags are a take-home souvenir in and of themselves. This option may be better for smaller weddings as it’s definitely an expensive choice. You can go classic with a standard plain tote, or personalize the bags with a custom design or message. You can customize the bags with your couple monogram, your names, or just your wedding date and location. 

### 3. Baskets
Unless they're collapsible, baskets may not be practical for a destiation wedding or guests who are flying. However, if you're willing to thrift and wash your baskets, this can be an economical way to provide something beautiful to house your wedding welcome present fo guests who are within driving distance.

### 4. Boxes
Like craft paper bags, paper or cardboard [wedding welcome](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-welcome-sign-ideas) boxes are easy to assemble and recycle—which is ideal for guests traveling light. Give a box the same treatment you would give a bag. Add a custom sticker, fill it with tissue paper, and add your items. It’s important to get a box that’s sturdy enough to hold your bag contents, too.  

![Wedding Welcome Box Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6qY7XwjAlqIyrOrQkWSkEH/1182e6ae8e53392560e925645f6dfec0/Wedding_Welcome_Box_Ideas.jpg)

### 5. Burlap bags
Love burlap? Instead of including it in your wedding decor, put your items inside of burlap bags complete with gift tags welcoming your friends and family. What to put in your welcome bag is as important as what you put it in, too. Bags made of burlap are also sturdy and pack well, meaning they're perfect for destination weddings. Your guests can use the bag for packing well beyond the wedding day.

## When to give out wedding welcome bags<a id="3"> </a>

### If you’re having a destination wedding…
If guests are coming from out of town at various times, it’s best to have their wedding welcome bag ready for them as soon as they arrive. "Most couples opt to have the welcome bags delivered to the guests’ hotels," says Folmar. "Coordinate with the hotel staff to have the bags placed in the guests' rooms or handed out at check-in. This way, your guests can enjoy them as soon as they arrive."

If possible, arrange for the bags to be ready in their rooms (if everyone is staying at the same accommodation), or have them handed out at check-in. Ask your wedding party to help organize this.

Things to consider: If you’re traveling far for your [destination wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations), you want to either have your wedding bags shipped to your location ahead of time or packed carefully and transported by your wedding party. Since it’s easy for things to get moved around or damaged in transit, don’t assemble the bags until you’ve arrived. 

### If you’re having a local wedding…
It’s pretty typical to have welcome bags ready at the various hotels or other guest [accommodations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-book-hotel-rooms-for-your-wedding-guests). However, if your wedding is small or most of your guests are traveling from their homes day-of, you can also have welcome bags on display in a designated area of your venue.

"If you’re hosting a welcome party or rehearsal dinner, distributing the bags there ensures all your guests receive them at once and sets the tone for the weekend," advises Folmar. You can arrange gifts on a front table, stack on a decorative shelf, or have members of the [wedding party](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-many-people-in-wedding-party) hand them out to each guest as they arrive.

![Wedding Welcome Gift Box Ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/aN5de1DVp24ZDxGXhnBjz/a0862c7bb4979c0e51172c4ad0ad48c6/Wedding_Welcome_Gift_Box_Ideas.jpg)
Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@joody?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Wijdan Mq</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/two-pink-and-white-floral-boxes-H5yiRXDUkto?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a>

## Zola's expert tips on personalizing your wedding welcome bags<a id="4"> </a>

Beyond learning what to put in wedding welcome bags, you may also be wondering how to infuse your personality while designing gifts that really speak to your guests. Here are a few ideas from our expert team on personalizing your welcome gifts.
- Use your wedding website to query your guests on what they like. If you're putting together snacks or drinks, you can surprise them with their favorites.
- Also, make note if your guests have any allergies. Special diets, such as lactose-free or gluten-free, should be noted on their responses, and you can use this insight to curate the perfect goodie baskets.
- Get ultra-personal by providing monogrammed items. An initialed travel beauty bag or personalized dish towel can add a specialty touch.
- Have favorite products? Include them in your welcome goodie baskets. If you found an amazing natural suncreen, soothing lip balm, or game that's a surefire hit, put it inside. 

Poole suggests polling your guests beforehand to further curate your welcome gifts. "Because I always recommend the couple ask their guests about any food allergies/dietary restrictions in the RSVP, the couple will also have that information to provide any alternatives to the original food/beverage selections for those specific guests," she adds. Poole also notes that adding his and hers food and beverages can further hone your selections. 

Lastly, Poole recommends adding a location-specific gift to your welcome baskets. "I tell the couple to include some type of location-based gift such as a keychain or cup," she adds. "One of my bride's welcome bags had a Starbucks mug with the city they were getting married in." How thoughtful!

Folmar also has ideas for locally-sourced treats. "Incorporating items that highlight the location of your wedding adds a unique touch," she says. "Hosting your wedding in California? Include local wine or a pack of gourmet almonds. For a wedding in New Orleans? Maybe some beignets or chicory coffee would be perfect."

## Who should receive a welcome basket?<a id="whoreceive"> </a>
Of course, wedding welcome bags aren’t required for all weddings (budgets are important, we get it!), they are a thoughtful addition that really adds to the guest experience. However, if you choose to have them, there is a bit of protocol to follow.

"As for etiquette, it’s recommended to provide welcome bags for all your out-of-town guests," advises Folmar. "If budget allows, you may even consider including local guests, especially if they’re staying overnight at the hotel or attending the full weekend of events."

Are you looking for more ways for your wedding guests to feel comfortable? Learn how to keep your guests informed about [changes to your big day](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-update-guests-about-changes-to-your-wedding) and briefing them on [what they should wear](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-wear-to-a-wedding), Zola has all the answers you need.

Zola image of blue wedding bag with tissue paper and a heart on front

12 Tips on What to Put in Your Wedding Welcome Bags

It’s understandable to be nervous about walking down the aisle on your wedding day. No matter how much thought and work you put into the [color palettes](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-wedding-color-palettes-to-try-right-now "5 Wedding Color Palettes to Try Right Now") and [flower arrangements](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers), at that moment, all eyes are on you. 

Although the following tips are meant to help you learn how to walk down the aisle properly during a [traditional English white wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-set-your-wedding-budget), customs differ widely from one culture or religion to the next. These tips can help anyone preparing to take center stage stay calm and feel more comfortable throughout the ceremony.

## 1. Make Sure the Wedding Party Knows Their Part
The more bridesmaids and/or groomsmen you have in your wedding party, the more organized your wedding processional needs to be. If you each only have one or two people at your side, there is plenty of time for everyone to walk out individually. If you each have four or five people in your processional, pair them off to help move things along. 

If you have a large wedding processional, consider sending the group out in two waves, one for each side of the aisle. They can walk in pairs if you need to save time. And don’t forget to plot out exactly where each person will stand. If need be, you can use place markers to make sure no one crowds the officiant during the wedding ceremony. 

## 2. Practice Your Timing
Once you’ve chosen the processional music, whether it’s the classic “Wedding March” or something special to you, give it a few trial runs to get the timing down. A wedding processional usually lasts around three to four minutes, and timing for groups or individuals will vary depending on the size of your wedding party. 

It shouldn’t take you any more than 30 to 45 seconds to walk down the aisle. That will allow enough time for everyone to enjoy the moment and for the photographer to get a few good snaps. It may help to count in your head as you time your steps. 

The more you practice, the easier it will be to get through any anxiety that may come up on your wedding day. 

## 3. Perfect Your Posture
If your clothing is flowy or heavy, or you’re not used to walking in the shoes you chose, it may be hard to stand up straight. You may also be tempted to look down at your feet. Your photos will look much better if you can maintain your posture while you walk.

The best way to keep your head level is to lift your chin and try to keep your earlobes in line with your shoulders. If you spend a lot of time looking down on your computer or phone, your neck muscles may not be used to it, but practicing every day will help. 

Stand straight and tall. Push your shoulders back and keep them down. This will help you avoid hunching, especially if you’re holding a bouquet. As you walk, keep your knees bent and your feet shoulder-width apart. Tuck your tummy in to keep your core engaged and help you maintain.

## 4. Loosen Up
Focusing on your posture is important, but you don’t want to go rigid. 

You should let your body move as naturally as possible. Keep anything you may be carrying—like a bouquet—a few inches in front of your stomach, but allow your arms to move some when you walk. And resist stiffening your neck to keep a veil or [floral crown](https://www.zola.com/blog/wedding-inspiration/ultimate-guide-to-floral-crowns/ "The Ultimate Guide To Floral Crowns") in place. Instead, look from side to side as you walk down the aisle and try to make eye contact with your guests as you go. (If eye contact is too much for you at the moment, you can look at people’s heads or shoulders.) 

Even if you feel a little nervous, you will look more natural this way, and it will make a big difference in the photos and videos. 

## 5. Smile
Hopefully, this will be a no brainer. If you are swept away in the moment, you will likely be unable to keep yourself from smiling, But if your nerves are getting the better of you, close your eyes and take a breath when your entrance song begins. Take a second to clear your mind before you start your walk. Relax your face and jaw muscles, and let your tongue lay slack in your mouth. Lift your eyebrows slightly, and think happy or goofy thoughts, or even something embarrassing, and smile. Small is better than big if you’re nervous, but don’t hold back once you start to feel it for real. 

## 6. Lock Elbows With Your Escort
If your mom or dad, or anyone else special to you will be walking you down the aisle, have them lock elbows with you. If two people are walking you down the aisle, have them lock arms on either side of you. That way, you will be sure to start on the same foot as each other for a smooth walk. 

If you are holding a bouquet, locking arms with your escort can also remind you to keep your flowers low. Not only will it be more flattering, but it will also make sure the camera can see your outfit. 

![Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle IL](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/01OxryVnt6Q3Bzst6T72dM/6b64c536ed0a7243dced92814f5e6a5a/inline_sparkly-holiday-wedding-at-the-phoenix-55_AlexMariePhotography.jpg)
*Photo Credits* // Alex Marie Photography

## 7. Watch Your Step
No one wants to trip in the middle of their ceremony. If you are mindful of how you step, you can reach the end of the aisle without incident. However, you also need to be aware of what you are wearing and how it may interfere with your stride. 

If you are wearing a long, flowy wedding dress, you can avoid stepping on it without having to look down at all. Each time you put your foot forward, your dress will move against the back of your leg. Wait until the hem of your dress hits your ankle before you take your next step, and you won’t have to worry about stepping on your dress. 

If you aren’t a pro at wearing heels and decide to sport them for your marriage ceremony, you can get some practice in at home by walking around on the balls of your feet. This will strengthen your legs and ankles so you can stay steady on your feet. You should also break your shoes in before the ceremony. 

## 8. Make Time for Yourself
When the big day arrives, take the time to eat breakfast and stay hydrated. You are much more likely to be stressed, woozy, or light-headed if you haven’t taken care of yourself all day. But even more essential is scheduling some time right before your grand entrance. 

While you’ll likely want to make some last-minute touch-ups to your hair or makeup before you go down the aisle, give yourself at least 15 additional minutes to use the restroom, have a glass of water, and take some time to collect yourself right before the ceremony begins. If you’re jumping from one thing to the next all day, you’re more likely to be flooded with stress the moment all eyes are on you. 

![Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Ux8xyBfYod2eJk9IPUHWz/0d3ef4c3e057fa46e7c4f53a8b872968/inline_cheery-bright-summertime-san-diego-wedding-16_FonyatWeddingPhotography.jpg)
*Photo Credits* // Fonyat Wedding Photography

## 9. Don’t Skip the Dress Rehearsal
As much as you practice at home, you still need to do a run-through at the venue. Put on your song, make sure you have the timing right, and put on your best posture and smile. This will let you know precisely how far the walk will be and whether or not there’s anything that might trip you up.

It will also help you be aware of any bright lights that might be shining in your eyes, so you can be prepared to avoid any squinting or grimacing. The fewer surprises there are on the big day, the better. 

## 10. Enjoy Yourself
If reading anything on this list made you even more worried than you were before, you can scratch it. After all, [it’s your wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-wedding-ceremony-programs). If you are having fun, it will show, and you won’t have to sweat the small stuff. All the work you put into wedding planning is finally paying off, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by having a great time and celebrating your commitment to each other. 

10 Tips on How to Walk Down the Aisle

Your wedding day is a joyous occasion, but it can be difficult to celebrate in the absence of a loved one. It’s completely valid to feel the weight of the loss of a cherished friend or family member even amid such a happy time, and choosing to include a meaningful moment or gesture in your wedding is a beautiful way to honor their memory. 

There are many ways to pay tribute to a deceased loved one at your wedding, and how you do it is completely personal—some might favor a public commemoration, while others might prefer a more private moment. Before you decide, it’s wise to consider the appropriateness of your idea based on your unique circumstances. This includes: 

- The deceased person’s relationship to you and your partner 
- The date of your wedding (some memorial ideas might be difficult if the death occurred close to your wedding day) 
- The wishes of anyone close to the deceased (it’s important to discuss with anyone who might be sensitive to death) 
- Religious or cultural considerations

The best plan of action when choosing a wedding memorial idea is to discuss it with those directly involved before a decision is made. Though your intentions may be good, it’s the most considerate approach.

If you’re all on the same page, and you’re looking for unique wedding memorial ideas, browse these creative ways to honor loved ones who have passed at your wedding, or jump straight to our <a href="#infographic">infographic</a> below.

## Wedding Memorial Ideas for the Ceremony 
### 1. Reserve a Seat in Their Honor
Keep your loved one’s memory close by reserving a seat for them up front in their honor. You might choose to place their photo in the seat, or another personal item that holds sentimental value. 

### 2. Add a Note in Your Ceremony Program 
Your wedding ceremony program is a fitting spot to include a sincere message in your loved one’s honor. This way, everyone will have a chance to read the tribute while still keeping the ceremony proceedings uplifting. 

### 3. Incorporate a Reading in Their Honor 
If you’d like a more public commemoration of your loved one, including a reading in their honor at some point during the ceremony is a touching way to pay homage to their memory. The reading could be a poem, book passage, or a quote—whatever you feel is most meaningful. If you’d rather not perform the reading yourself, you can ask your priest or officiant to step in instead. 

### 4. Speak to Their Memory During the Ceremony
An alternative to including a reading in your late loved one’s honor is to simply dedicate a portion of the ceremony to sharing about their memory and what they meant to you. Rather than reading a specific quote or passage, you’ll have the chance to speak freely about your relationship with your late loved one and share directly from the heart. 

Be sure to consider carefully whether or not this might become too emotional, as emotions will likely already be high on your wedding day. 

### 5. Include a Moment of Silence 
Another way to honor a deceased loved one publicly (without having to actually say anything if it feels too difficult to speak about) is to include a moment of silence for them at the beginning of the ceremony. Ask your priest or officiant to work this into your ceremony order and have them lead the moment of silence. 

### 6. Light a Candle During the Service 
Candles are a beautiful way to pay homage to late loved ones and help signify that while their physical presence is missed, they’re still there in spirit. Light a candle in their memory during your ceremony—you can work with your officiant or wedding planner for help with where to include the special moment in your order of service. 

### 8. Place an Item On Their Chair After Walking Down the Aisle
If you have an item of your late loved one that holds sentimental value, a touching way to memorialize them during your ceremony is to carry it with you as you walk down the aisle, then place it on a chair reserved for them in their honor. 

## Wedding Memorial Ideas for the Reception 

### 9. Name Something After Them
For a sweet tribute to a late loved one, choose something at your reception to name after them—this could be anything from the bar station (“John’s Bar”) where you serve their favorite drink, or naming a single drink after them (“Grandma’s Lemonade”).  

### 10. Display Framed Family Photos 
Displaying framed photos of your late loved ones is a beautiful and thoughtful way to honor them and make them a part of your special day. Frame a selection of your favorite photos, then create an installation on your [guestbook](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-guest-book-ideas) table so your guests can see and appreciate it, too. 

### 11. Add Their Favorite Dishes to Your Wedding Menu
If you’re looking for a unique wedding memorial idea with plenty of character, consider incorporating your late loved one’s favorite dishes into your wedding day menu. This might be an old family recipe or even their favorite late-night snack—whatever it is, your guests will appreciate such a thoughtful addition.

### 12. Play Their Favorite Song 
Is there a particular song or artist that meant a lot to your loved one or simply reminds you of them? Use that tune or collection of tunes in your wedding reception playlist in their honor.

### 13. Dedicate Your Parent Dance to Them
If your late loved one is related to your or your partner’s parents, dedicating your parent dance to them is a truly meaningful way to honor their memory. You can also choose to play their favorite song or pick a song that reminds you of them for the dance.

### 14. Make a Toast 
If you’re commemorating a late family member, the [reception](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-reception-timeline) is a special time to give a toast in their honor. If you don’t want to perform the toast yourself, ask a close family member or whoever is giving toasts to share a cherished memory or sentimental story in their honor.

![inline unsplash 1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2thP4DFjVikjjQFS5NewhD/e842afcef590d0230691c51f09d005fc/inline_unsplash_1_.webp)

### 15. Select Touching Favors 
Your wedding favors can be used as a sweet token of remembrance, and offer a unique way to leave your guests with a piece of your loved one’s memory. This could be anything from incorporating their favorite candies or choosing something you know they loved—if your late grandfather loved cigars, for example, you could send your guests home with his favorites along with a note explaining the token. 

### 16. Create a Memory Table in Their Honor 
Reserve a designated space at your reception by setting up a table filled with framed photos, sentimental objects, and anything else that holds meaning to the person whose memory you’re honoring. 

### 17. Create a Memory Box
A unique and interactive way to pay homage to late loved ones is by creating a memory box. Have a space where guests can take a card and write down their memories with your loved one for you to look back on later. Place it on your guestbook table or on a memory table if you’re creating one. 

### 18. Display a Remembrance Drawing 
Having a custom illustration made is a creative way to give recognition to late loved ones at your wedding, and with so many talented illustration artists out there, it’s a chance to create something truly special to display in your loved one’s honor. If you choose to designate a seat for them at the ceremony, you might place the illustration on their chair for guests to see. 

### 19. Display a Plaque or Sign
Displaying a plaque or sign is one of the simplest ways to pay tribute to late loved ones. Have one made (or make one yourself) with a touching message in their honor. 

### 20. DIY a Wooden Sign
If you have a penchant for creating things yourself, a DIY wooden sign in honor of your late loved one is the perfect way to pay your respects. Going the DIY route also means endless possibilities in how you choose to customize your sign, which could include names, dates, and a thoughtful message. 

## Wedding Memorial Ideas: Sentimental Symbolisms 
### 21. Incorporate a Family Heirloom 
Whether you wear your loved one’s handkerchief, wrap a symbolic rosary around your bouquet, or carry a sentimental trinket or object with you down the aisle, there are countless ways to incorporate a late loved one’s family heirloom to feel like they’re close to you on your big day. 

### 22. Choose a Sentimental Wedding Location
There are a variety of factors that go into choosing a wedding location and venue, like the time of year, number of guests, and so on. But if you’re wedding planning in the midst of losing a cherished friend or family member, you might also consider choosing a site that holds meaning to the deceased loved one. 

### 23. Wear Their Jewelry or Cufflinks 
Adding a piece of your late loved one’s jewelry to your wedding day ensemble or sporting their cufflinks with your suit is a beautiful way to keep them close to your heart for each moment of your big day. That way, you’ll always wear your loved one with you, from the ceremony until the day comes to an end. 

### 24. Light a Candle in Their Honor
Candles are an excellent way to symbolize that a late loved one’s memory still burns bright in your heart, even if they’re physically absent. If you’d rather not light a candle publicly during your wedding ceremony, choose a private moment to light a candle in their honor instead. It could be on the morning of your wedding day while you get ready, or with close friends and family directly after the ceremony. 

### 22. Pin Their Photo to Your Attire 
For a sweet and subtle way to keep your late loved one close to you on your wedding day, place a small photo of them in an ornamental case like a locket, and pin it to your attire. You can choose if you want the photo to be outwardly visible, or you can place it somewhere more discreet so only you and your partner know it’s there. 

### 25. Add Their Photo to Your Bouquet 
An alternative to pinning a photo of your loved one to your attire is to add their photo to your bouquet so you can keep them close as you walk down the aisle. Simply add their photo to a heart-shaped locket or small charm and affix it to your bouquet. 

### 26. Incorporate Their Favorite Flowers 
Surround yourself with your late loved one’s memory by incorporating their favorite blooms into your [floral decor](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/decor-inspiration/flowers/a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers). You might use their favorite flowers in your bouquet, or use them to adorn your reception tables. You can also simply choose to incorporate flowers and plants that symbolize remembrance, like statice, rosemary, pansies, and gladiolus.  

![inline unsplash](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4h6kKpstWY2mNfkK97mz51/0ebd6fa561976b54b97d86e22565baac/inline_unsplash.webp)

### 27. Incorporate a Special Motif 
Finding ways to incorporate your late loved one’s memory on your wedding day doesn’t have to be done traditionally. For example, maybe they weren’t fond of flowers, but they really loved butterflies. In that case, you might incorporate butterflies into your decor or favors. Anything that holds meaning to you and your late loved one can be woven into whatever part of your wedding you choose—don’t be afraid to get creative.  

### 28. Sew a Memory of Them Into Your Attire 
Take pinning a trinket or photo to your attire a step further by having a memory of your loved one sewn into your wedding day attire, such as a cutting of their shirt or a small monogram. Bring your idea to your seamstress for their input on how to best incorporate it into your suit or dress. 

### 29. Wear a Piece of Their Wedding Attire 
If your late loved one was an older family member, a truly personal way to pay homage to their legacy is by sporting a piece of their wedding attire in your own wedding day outfit. This could mean going all out and wearing their wedding dress as your own, or simply incorporating a single piece, like their veil or tie. 

### 30. Set Aside a Private Moment 
If you’d rather not put on a public display in remembrance of your late friend or family member, set aside some time for a private moment at some point during the wedding instead—either with close friends and family who knew them or even with just you and your partner. This allows for a moment of stillness amid the hustle and bustle of the big day in which you can have the chance to pay your respects privately. 

### 31. Request Donations to Their Favorite Charity 
Uphold the memory of your late loved one by requesting donations to a special charity that mattered to them in lieu of a [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry). Alternatively, instead of providing wedding favors, you might consider making the donation yourself. Create a sign at the guestbook table indicating your donation in place of favors, along with a note detailing the significance of what the charity meant to your friend or family member. 

## Wedding Memorial Ideas: Quotes and Readings 
The quotes and readings below can help you add a more personal touch to any wedding memorial signs, speeches, or readings in honor of loved ones no longer with you on your wedding day. 

### Memorial Quotes
32. “As you were you will always be, treasured forever in our memory.” –Unknown
33. 31. “In the hearts of those who loved you, you will always be there.” –Unknown
34. “Forever remembered, forever missed.” –Unknown
35.  “May the winds of heaven blow softly, and whisper in your ear, how much we love and miss you, and wish that you were here.” –Unknown 
36. “Life has to end. Love doesn’t.” –Mitch Albom
37. “The song has ended, but the melody lingers on.” –Irving Berlin
38. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” –Irish proverb
39. “Only a moment you stayed, but what an imprint your footprints have left on our hearts.” –Dorothy Ferguson
40. “Gone yet not forgotten, although we are apart, your spirit lives within me, forever in my heart.” –Unknown
41. “Your life was our blessing, and you shall never be forgotten.” –Unknown
42. “Every life is noted and is cherished, and nothing loved is ever lost or perished.” –Madeleine L’Engle
43. “And they all said, ‘I’m sorry for your loss,’ as if you were someone who could ever be taken from me.” –Robert Brault
44. “How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” –Winnie the Pooh
45. “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”  –Helen Keller
46. “There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” –Gandhi
47. “Death is nothing else but going home to God, the bond of love will be unbroken for all eternity.” –Mother Teresa

### Memorial Readings

### 48. William Wordsworth Reading
“And when the stream that overflows has passed, a consciousness remains upon the silent shore of memory,
Images and precious thoughts that shall not be and cannot be destroyed.” 

–William Wordsworth, The Excursion

### 49. There Is No Light Without a Dawning Reading
No winter without a spring
And beyond the dark horizon
Our hearts will once more sing ….
For those who leave us for a while
Have only gone away
Out of a restless, care worn world
Into a brighter day

–Helen Steiner Rice

### 50. Our Memories Build a Special Bridge Reading
When loved ones have to part
To help us feel we’re with them still
And soothe a grieving heart
They span the years and warm our lives
Preserving ties that bind
Our memories build a special bridge
And bring us peace of mind

–Emily Mathews

### 51. Irish Blessing Reading
May the roads rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
May the rains fall soft upon fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

–Irish Proverb

### 52. Life Can Never Stay the Same Reading
Life can never stay the same
No matter how we try
Our hands can never stop
The clock of life from ticking by
But love remains, unchanging
In the care of sorrowing hearts
For as the love of life is stilled
The love of memory starts.

–Unknown

### 53. Turn Again to Life Reading
If I should die and leave you here a while,
Be not like others sore undone,
Who keep long vigil by the silent dust.
For my sake turn again to life and smile,
Nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do
Something to comfort other hearts than thine.
Complete these dear unfinished tasks of mine
And I perchance may therein comfort you. 

–Mary Lee Hall

### 54. If I Should Die Before the Rest of You Reading
If I should die before the rest of you
Break not a flower nor inscribe a stone
Nor, when I’m gone, speak in a Sunday voice,
But be the usual selves that I have known.
Weep if you must
Parting is hell.
But life goes on.
So sing as well.

–Joyce Grenfell

### 55. Not How Did He Die, But How Did He Live? Reading
Not, how did he die, but how did he live?
Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.
Nor what was his church, nor what was his creed?
But had he befriended those really in need?
Was he ever ready, with words of good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away?

–Anonymous

### 56. Intimations of Immortality Reading
What though the radiance which was once so bright
Be now forever taken from my sight,
Though nothing can bring back the hour
Of splendor in the grass, of glory in the flower;
We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what remains behind.

–William Wordsworth
<a id="infographic"></a>

![wedding-memorial-ideas](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1jzPxkqkpzd2pVgDLzEfkp/cb21b39a2d359c02b345356af0a79883/wedding-memorial-ideas.png)


Ways to Honor Loved Ones Who Have Passed at Your Wedding

56 Unique Wedding Memorial Ideas to Honor Loved Ones 

Throughout your [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/), you’ve probably put together a timeline of events for your wedding day. You’ve figured out when to start getting ready in the morning, when to leave for the venue, how long the ceremony will take, and when you will be announced to your guests at the reception. But have you incorporated a timeline for your photos to ensure you get all the shots you want? 

Many couples don’t realize how much time is needed to get wedding photos that look effortlessly beautiful. So, how long do wedding photos take? Let’s take a closer look at the details of your wedding photography timeline. 

<h2> How to Plan Your Wedding Photos </h2>

Depending on the types of portraits you want your photographer to take ([different wedding photographers have different styles](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos)!), it will probably take you at least two hours to get all the shots. However, the good news is that the photos usually aren’t taken all at once, and the time is broken up throughout your day.

Most photographers say you need about 30 minutes for wedding party portraits, 30 minutes for family portraits (close family only), and 45 minutes for couple portraits. Just remember: These timeframes can contract or expand, depending on the size of your wedding party and family, as well as the specific types of shots you want. For specifics, speak to your wedding photographer about how long they’ll need to take all the different shots you have in mind, plus how you might be able to save time. Here are some of the details you should consider as you plan the photos you want. 

<h3> 1. Pick Who You’ll Include in Formal Portraits </h3>

![How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? | Zola](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6I2KiXD8d9GuSXE3jwqoXS/0e1ec004961a149e27003cd624f4d90c/inline_unsplash17.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Unsplash

Of course, the focus of your wedding photos will be you and your spouse. However, you will probably want to have formal portraits taken of you with your wedding party, as well as [family wedding photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). Deciding who you will include in this session can significantly impact how long your wedding photos will take. Your parents may try to convince you that you should have a formal portrait with all of your relatives, but remember that the more photos you take, the longer you will be kept away from your celebration. A good rule of thumb is to keep formal portraits limited to about 15 different groupings, including your wedding party, immediate family, and possibly a few important relatives. To help you make this decision, your photographer may be able to provide you with a list of suggested formal portrait groupings, so you know [how to edit wedding photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer) based on your needs. 

<h3> 2. Decide If You’ll Do a “First Look” </h3>

![How Long Do Wedding Photos Take? | Zola](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6uVnMhM1d3mlXyhe9PX49q/1549b1156768118b6061ca133f0bba66/inline_unsplash18.jpg)
*Photo Credit* // Unsplash

An increasingly popular photo that couples are choosing to incorporate is a “first look.” [The first look wedding photo](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos) This photo captures the first time the couple sees each other on their wedding day, usually wearing their wedding attire and occurring before the ceremony. 

Many photographers suggest this option, because it gives you the opportunity to take formal portraits before the ceremony, allowing you to enjoy the cocktail hour with your guests. If you choose the alternative—to stick with tradition and wait to see each other at the ceremony—you will likely spend your entire cocktail hour taking portraits. This choice can significantly impact your wedding photography timeline, so make sure you and your partner have come to a decision before finalizing your plans. 

<h3> 3. Pick Your Locations </h3>

Once you’ve decided who’ll be in your photos and if you’ll be doing a “first look,” choose where you will be taking the photos. The most obvious and easiest locations will be your ceremony and reception venues, but you aren’t limited to these.

If the hotel where you’re getting ready has beautiful scenery, you might decide to have some portraits taken there, such as the bridal party or groomsmen photos. However, you might have other specific places of importance, like a local park or a specific neighborhood in your city. While this is definitely an option, you will need to plan for the extra time and transportation required to travel to and from those locations on your big day. 

<h2> Your Wedding Photo Timeline </h2>

After you’ve figured out all the details of your wedding photos, you’ll want to work with your photographer (or wedding planner) to create a fully documented schedule of your wedding day, including the timeline for your photos. And don’t forget: It’s useful to add five-minute buffers throughout the day to leave room for any last-minute changes. You will also want to include any travel time to move between locations.

Once you’ve established your timeline, make sure that anyone who will be included in photos is aware of the schedule, plus has all relevant details. The last thing you want is to be waiting on a relative to show up for photos, so encourage all your important people to stick to the timeline you give them. 

<h3> Sample Timelines </h3>

To help you out, we put together two sample wedding photo timelines (including a [wedding photo list](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-photo-list)!). The first is for a couple doing a “first look” session, while the second is for a couple going the more traditional route. Seeing these schedules next to one another may help you decide what you’d like to do for your wedding based on the impact that session can have on your overall timeline. 

### Timeline With First Look

#### 11:45 AM - Wedding Photographer’s Arrival
From a photo perspective, the day can’t start until the photographer arrives—which is why the first item on any wedding day photography timeline is the photographer’s arrival. At this point,  the wedding photographer arrives on site and prepares to start snapping photos. 

#### 12:00 - 2:00 PM - Getting Ready Photos 
During the next phase, the couple is separated, getting ready for the ceremony with their wedding party. These photos are often candid. 

During this time, the wedding photographer may take a variety of shots, including:

- The groom getting dressed with the groomsmen

- The bride getting ready with the bridesmaids

- The hair stylist creating the bride’s wedding day hairstyle

- Close-ups of the makeup artist doing the bride and bridesmaids’ makeup

- Detail shots (for example, rings, wedding shoes, bouquets, wedding invitations, etc.)

If the wedding photographer has a second shooter, they may split up—with each photographer taking photos of one half of the couple and their bridesmaids and/or groomsmen. 

__Location ideas:__ Wherever the bride and/or groom is getting ready—for example, their home, the wedding venue, or a hotel

#### 2:15 - 3:00 PM - First Look and Couple Portraits
If a couple opts to do a first look, then the photographer will get the opportunity to shoot them pre-ceremony. [First look photos](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos) generally include:

- Portrait sessions for both people (for example, bridal portraits and groom portraits)

- The couple seeing each other in their full wedding looks for the first time

- Couples portraits

Location ideas: Somewhere at or near the wedding venue—either outdoors (for example, in a garden or next to the ocean) or indoors (for example, in a hallway or underneath an entrance)

#### 3:15 - 3:45 PM - Wedding Party Portraits
After the first look, it’s time to tackle wedding party photos. This may include:

- The bride with all of her bridesmaids

- The bride with each bridesmaid

- The bride with the maid of honor

- The groom with all of the groomsmen

- The groom with each groomsmen

- The groom with his best man

- The couple with the entire wedding party

- The bride with her partner’s side of the wedding party

- The groom with his partner’s side of the wedding party

__Location ideas:__ Outside the wedding venue, at an off-site location with a scenic background

#### 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Wedding Ceremony
It’s time to get married! During the wedding ceremony, the photographer will likely snap a variety of photos, including:

- The ceremony location

- Detail shots (for example, the ceremony programs, the flowers, the arbor, etc.)

- Guests arriving at the ceremony start time

- The wedding party walking down the aisle

- Family members walking down the aisle

- The bride and/or groom (or brides and grooms) walking down the aisle

- The officiant

- Any friends or family that share readings during the ceremony

- The couple exchanging wedding vows

- The couple walking down the aisle after getting married

__Location ideas:__ At the ceremony site

#### 5:10 - 5:40 PM - Family Portraits
After the ceremony, the wedding photographer will take formal [portraits of the couple and their families](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos). This may include:

- The bride with her parents

- The groom with his parents

- The couple with one set of parents

- The couple with the other set of parents

- The couple with both sets of parents

- The bride with her siblings

- The groom with his siblings

- The couple with one set of siblings

- The couple with both sets of siblings

- The bride with her immediate family

- The groom with his immediate family

- The couple with one partner’s immediate family

- The couple with the other partner’s immediate family

- The couple with both of their immediate families

- The bride with her grandparents

- The groom with his grandparents

- The couple with one set of grandparents

- The couple with the other set of grandparents

- The couple with both sets of grandparents

- Additional family photos as necessary (for example, photos with aunts, uncles, and/or cousins)

__Location ideas:__ At the ceremony site, somewhere scenic/quiet at the wedding venue that’s away from cocktail hour (for example, a garden or ballroom)

#### 5:10 - 6:20 PM - Cocktail Hour
If your wedding photographer has a second shooter, they will often snap photos during cocktail hour while the main photographer handles family photos. This may include:

- Guests mingling at cocktail hour

- Photos of your signature wedding cocktails

- Detail shots (for example, cocktail napkins, signage and decor, etc.)

__Location ideas:__ At the cocktail hour site

#### 6:30 PM - Wedding Reception
Your wedding reception is full of moments that you’ll want to turn into memories—and your wedding photographer will be on hand to ensure that happens. Some wedding reception photos your photographer will likely want to capture include:

- The couple’s grand entrance

- Guest table photos

- The couple’s first dance

- Parent dances

- Toasts and speeches

- Guests dancing on the dance floor

- The garter toss and/or bouquet toss

- Cake cutting

- The couple’s exit

- Detail shots (for example, centerpieces, decor, table signage, gift table, etc.)

__Location ideas__: At the wedding reception site

### Timeline Without First Look

#### 12:00 - 2:00 PM - Getting Ready Photos

Same as above

#### 2:15 - 3:30 PM - Separate Wedding Party and Family Portraits 
If a couple opts not to do a first look, the wedding photographer can’t do group photos before the ceremony—but they can do separate wedding party and/or family portraits. This may include:

- The bride with her bridesmaids

- The bride with each bridesmaid

- The bride with her maid of honor

- The bride with her parents

- The bride with her siblings

- The bride with her immediate family

- The bride with her grandparents

- The bride with any additional family as necessary (for example, aunts, uncles, or cousins)

- The groom with his entire family

- The groom with his groomsmen

- The groom with each groomsmen

- The groom with his best man

- The groom with his parents

- The groom with his siblings

- The groom with his immediate family

- The groom with his grandparents

- The groom with any additional family as necessary (for example, aunts, uncles, or cousins)

- The groom with her entire family

#### 4:30 - 5:00 PM - Wedding Ceremony
Same as above

#### 5:15 - 6:15 PM - Couple and Group Portraits 
If there’s no first look, the couple will take both couple’s and group portraits after the wedding ceremony. This may include:

- Photos of the couple

- The couple with their entire wedding party

- The couple with one set of parents

- The couple with the other set of parents

- The couple with both sets of parents

- The couple with one set of siblings

- The couple with the other set of siblings

- The couple with both sets of siblings

- The couple with one person’s immediate family

- The couple with the other person’s immediate family

- The couple with both of their immediate families

- The couple with one set of grandparents 

- The couple with the other set of grandparents

- The couple with both sets of grandparents

- The couple with one person’s entire family

- The couple with the other person’s entire family

- The couple with both of their entire families

#### 5:15 - 6:20 PM - Cocktail Hour
Same as above

#### 6:30 PM - Wedding Reception
Same as above

As you can see from the timelines above, the “first look” photos can give you more time to enjoy being with your guests after the ceremony. However, if you choose to stick to a more traditional timeline and wait to see each other at the ceremony for the first time, you will still be able to take all the photos you want. Ultimately, the decision is up to you as a couple and what works best for your wedding day.

## Things To Consider When Developing Your Wedding Day Photography Timeline
Need more insights in to how to navigate your wedding day timeline? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

- __Stick to the timeline...__ Your wedding photographer has a timeline for a reason! The timeline is created to ensure they have enough time to capture all of the shots you’ll want from your wedding day—so make their lives easier by sticking to the timeline as much as possible.

- __...but also be flexible.__ Ideally, you’ll stick to your wedding photography timeline—but things happen that may throw you off course (for example, it may take you longer to get ready than you originally planned or there may be a delay in getting to your first look location). Make sure to stay flexible and allow your photographer to switch things up as necessary.

- __Keep awkward moments to a minimum.__ Your wedding photographer is there to capture happy moments—not awkward ones. Think about any potential awkward interactions—and make a plan to deal with them. (For example, if you have divorced parents that can’t be in the same room, make sure to let your photographer know so she can schedule those family portraits separately.)

- __Make sure to account for transportation time.__ If you’re taking photos at multiple locations, make sure to build transportation time into your timeline.

- __Don’t be afraid to ask for a redo.__ If something feels off about your photography sessions—for example, you don’t like where you’re snapping your bridal party photos or the sky is too dark and cloudy for your liking—don’t be afraid to ask your photographer to either retake the photos or rethink their approach and offer other options.

While it may be tempting to figure out your wedding photos on a whim throughout your wedding day, ensuring you get all the shots you want will require some planning. Start by deciding who you want to take photos with and where they will be taken. Then, as a couple, choose whether or not you want a “first look” photo. Work with your photographer to get a better sense of how long they need to get high-quality shots. And finally, create a detailed timeline for your wedding day, then share it with all the appropriate people. Taking these steps will ensure your big day runs smoothly, so you can enjoy being in the moment—and enjoy getting back your wedding photos after your big day. (Don’t forget to ask about turnaround time!)

A Guide to the Ideal Wedding Photography Timeline

Bringing people together to celebrate your love doesn’t always bring the same degree of excitement to your wallet as it does to you and your partner. High costs can seem to creep up out of nowhere even for a more intimate occasion like the wedding rehearsal dinner. For a memorable night with family and friends that’s exquisite and easy on the budget, follow along. 

In this piece, we’ll cover everything you need to know from rehearsal dinner basics to creative ideas that will bring radiance and spending relief. Focus more on the wedding-day walk-through and on cherishing small moments—we’ll help you take care of the rest. 

Here’s a closer look at what you’ll find below:

- Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know
- How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly
- Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas
- Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos
- Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner

## Rehearsal Dinner 101: Everything You Need to Know <a id="want"> </a>  
Rehearsal dinners are more than just a walk-through of the ceremony. The post-rehearsal time is an opportunity to sneak extra hugs, conversation, and dancing with your closest friends and family members. 

Before handing out a few tips about how to put on an affordable event, let’s first talk a bit more about what a rehearsal dinner actually is. Who comes? When does it typically happen? Find answers to these questions and more below. 

- The what: A rehearsal, of course! You’ll do a general practice of the ceremony from top to bottom to coordinate details such as music, entries, and where to stand. The best part is dinner and drinks afterward with your inner circle of loved ones. 

- __The who:__ As wedding tradition goes, the rehearsal dinner is generally reserved for you, your partner, the wedding party, the officiant, and anyone else who may hold a spot on the ceremony program. Some couples may choose to expand the guest list to include a few more family members and friends. Talk this through with your partner to see just how big or how small you’d like to keep things. 

- __The where:__ That’s entirely up to you. We’ll give you a few rehearsal dinner venue ideas below, but there are no rules that dictate where exactly you should hold your rehearsal dinner. From seaside soirees to park picnics, the choice is yours.

- __The when:__ Most couples opt to host their rehearsal dinner on the day before their wedding day, as this ensures that all the ceremony dos and don’ts are fresh in everyone’s minds. If you choose to do it sooner, let your wedding guests know so that they can adjust their schedules. 

- __The why:__ To go over last-minute details to make sure that there aren’t any hiccups on the day of your wedding. It’s also a time when you and your partner can express thanks to friends and family members for all of the time and effort that they’ve put in to help realize your wedding-day dreams.  

Now that you’re familiar with some of the basics, let’s talk about the budget. 

## How to Keep Your Rehearsal Dinner Budget-Friendly <a id="host"> </a>  
It’s no secret that weddings can often come with a high price tag. Some couples prefer to go all out for their big day and for additional wedding-related events such as the rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunches. 

But if you’re the type of duo who would prefer to keep spending low for the wedding in order to invest more in a lavish honeymoon or a new home, you’re in the right place. Just because you’d rather keep your celebration budget-friendly, doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice elegance and refinement. Cheap rehearsal dinner ideas do not equate to tacky and tawdry. 

Here are a few ideas to help you plan an affordable rehearsal dinner that’s both well-organized and well-polished. 

- __Do it at home.__ Whether it’s at your residence or a family member’s, having a backyard or patio gathering is a savvy way to avoid the high costs of booking a venue or renting out space at a restaurant. Plus, it allows you to have full control over all the details such as decor, duration of the event, and dinner choices. 

- __Find a low-cost venue.__ If you don’t quite have the space to host an event at home, consider another low-cost alternative such as a public beach or park. It gives you just as much freedom to decorate and tailor it to your liking without the pressure of getting your house event-ready. However, it might not be completely free, so be sure to ask about the cost of a permit and how to go about reserving the space for the date you need. 

- __Book a space within your price range.__ Not a fan of backyard barbecues or public park gatherings? Use the Zola Vendor Search tool to find a ready-made venue that’s within your budget. Filter through the available spaces by price, setting, and capacity to find one that works with your vision and your wallet. 

- __Coordinate a potluck.__ Especially if you opt for an at-home affair, you can join forces with your rockstar wedding crew and eager-to-help family members. Set up a spreadsheet with plenty of time to spare for people to sign up for different dishes. It doesn’t get much more affordable than this and you’ll probably find that people are happy to contribute in any way that they can. 

- __Opt for buffet-style catering.__ If you’d rather leave the cooking to the professionals, elect to hire a catering service. Ask about buffet-style dinner options since this will allow you to keep a fixed cost per person instead of opening it up for guests to order individual meals and drinks. 

- __Ask about your venue’s event policies.__ If you’ve reserved a date and time for your rehearsal dinner at a hotel or restaurant, ask them to be upfront with you about the total costs. You’ll need to pay the rental fee for the locale, of course, but it would be important to find out if there are any minimum spending requirements for food and drinks.

- __Ask a creative friend for a favor.__ You’ve already booked a photographer for your wedding day but you’d like to get a few snaps of you, your partner, and your crew at the rehearsal dinner too. See if one of your friends who’s got an eye for photography wouldn’t mind documenting a few special moments throughout the night. They might offer to do so free of charge, but consider thanking them for their efforts with a bottle of wine or a gift card to their favorite eatery. 

- __Opt for handmade decorations.__ The internet is chock-full of good ideas for DIY decorations. You might be surprised to find that most projects are fairly easy to succeed at too, so you won’t need to be a master crafter to pull it off. From upcycled picture frames and shutters to wood-burned coasters, the sky’s the limit when it comes to handmade, budget-friendly decor. 

Now that you’ve packed your brainstorm list to the brim with affordable rehearsal dinner ideas, let’s see how you can pull them all together. Get your creative juices flowing a bit more in the next section where we’ll help you tie your ideas together into a charming and cohesive rehearsal dinner theme. 

## Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Theme Ideas <a id="food"> </a>  
Not quite sure where to start when it comes to choosing a theme for your rehearsal dinner? Sometimes all you need are a few ideas to help nudge you in the right creative direction. Get some inspiration from the following and feel free to adapt them to fit your own unique vision. 

- __Piazza pizza party –__ Look to Venice, Italy for your inspiration for this budget-friendly theme. Decorate your back patio with lights, greenery, and maybe even a small garden fountain to channel the aesthetic of an Italian piazza. For dinner? Pizza, of course! It’s always a crowd favorite and something that’s quick and easy to put together. It feeds a number of people, too, so getting it catered by a local ristorante shouldn’t run up a high bill. Set up a gelato bar for dessert and include a station for guests to add their own toppings. 

- __Backyard barbecue –__ If you’d rather opt for a more casual theme, take advantage of backyard space for some grilling and lawn games. The venue is free, of course, and it will give you and your crew a chance to be comfortable and informal before having to dress to the nines on the following day. Coordinate a potluck, if you want, and include some classic homestyle dishes such as macaroni and cheese or potato salad to pair with the barbecue burgers and kebabs. 

- __Parisian charcuterie picnic (aka grown-up Lunchables) –__ Save yourself some time with a simple, yet classy charcuterie spread. Take a quick trip to your local bulk store (think Costco or Sam’s Club) to pick up an assortment of deli meats, pre-sliced cheeses, crackers, and bread for a delectable, self-serve rehearsal dinner. You can also purchase plenty of fruit and veggie plates for a balanced meal. 

Add a few checkered tablecloths and some tapered candles in wine bottles, and you’ll have a little taste of Paris the night before your big day. 

## Rehearsal Dinner To-Dos
Since you’ve been planning your wedding, you’re probably no stranger to lists by now. The number of to-dos that pile up for wedding day details can be a bit overwhelming at times. 

Keep everything in order and in one place by customizing your task list at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/checklist). Plus, our app is designed to send you notifications whenever a deadline is approaching. The good news? You can use this handy tool for your rehearsal dinner checklist, too. 

Not sure where to begin when it comes to prioritizing tasks? Here’s a list of things to get you started down the aisle on the right foot. 

- __Set up a budget –__ You might already have a budget set for the wedding day itself, but it’s a good idea to make another one for your rehearsal dinner too. Even though you’re catering to a smaller crowd, costs for food, decorations, and wedding party gifts can add up quickly. Work out with your partner and your families how much you’re willing to spend, and then do your best to adhere to it. 

- __Decide who to invite –__ As we mentioned before, this event is typically reserved for your closest family members, your wedding crew, and anyone playing a part in the ceremony itself. Feel free to do things your own way by opening it up to plus-ones or a few extended family members. However, just be mindful of how that might affect the budget before doing so. Another idea is to keep the dinner to just your inner circle, and then open a space up later in the night for more guests to stop by for mingling and a few pre-wedding day cocktails. 

<a id="theme"> </a>  
- __Pick a theme that works with your wedding style –__ Modern and formal? Or, vintage and bohemian? Your rehearsal dinner can be a design extension of your wedding day and an opportunity to weave in a few recurring motifs throughout the entire weekend. Or, you can change things up completely by hosting a dinner with its own unique style and personality. If the wedding day is a black-tie affair, perhaps you’d prefer a casual beachfront barbecue for your rehearsal dinner. Whatever you decide, use the theme as a base from which all other details will extend. 

- __Choose and book the venue –__ If budget consciousness is a priority for you, picking a venue can be an opportunity to save big or not. Even for small groups, some [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) may cost a pretty penny just to reserve the space and could even require a minimum tab for food and drinks. An at-home event won’t cost you anything to book the space, of course, but it may require more investment in details such as decorations and floral arrangements. Decide what’s most important to you in an event space and give yourself plenty of time to book in advance. 

- __Coordinate catering –__ If you’ve chosen a restaurant or a hotel function hall, you might not even need to give catering much of a second thought. These spaces are well-oiled machines when it comes to hosting events and probably already have menu options and in-house catering services ready to go. If you’ll be celebrating at a park or at home, you and your partner will have to work out these details yourselves. Shop around to find something that satisfies your flavor palette and budget, or consider cooking a few dishes yourself. 

- __Send out the invitations –__ Pardon the obvious, but if you’re hosting an event your guests will need to know where to go and what time to be there. Your wedding party is probably already expecting a pre-wedding walk-through as part of their duties, but be sure to clue them in on the details of the dinner and the rehearsal itself so they can add it to their schedule. Consider coordinating [wedding invitations](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop) to match the theme of your dinner. A few floral accents would be well-suited for a garden party, or you can establish elegance with a gold metallic foil. 

- __Create a playlist –__ You don’t necessarily need to book a DJ or a band for your rehearsal dinner (unless you want to, of course) but some background music for mealtime and mingling could be a nice touch. Curate a playlist to your liking for an at-home affair or check with your venue to see if you’re able to provide your own music. If you’ve got a family or friend who is musically inclined, you might consider asking them to play a few songs for a laid-back dinner—complete with sing-alongs and dancing. 

- __Include a few fun activities –__ You and your guests are there to take care of the logistics before the big day, but don’t forget to have fun, too. Beyond dinner and drinks, consider adding a few games and activities to let loose the night before your ceremony. Lawn games and Jenga are always a hit. Or, you can encourage people to get creative by setting up a DIY table for crafting or scrapbooking. 

- __Say thank you and enjoy the company –__ This will likely be your last event with family and friends as an unmarried couple. Soak in those moments with the people who have come from near and far to rally behind your love story before the wild ride of married life takes off. Consider taking this opportunity to send out a thank you to them too. A handwritten note is a simple, heartfelt gesture; or, shop for a few small gifts that your wedding party will be able to have as a keepsake for years to come. 

When it comes to weddings our well never runs dry. Stay tuned for more rehearsal dinner hacks in the section below. 

## Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Rehearsal Dinner 
Feeling just about ready to dive into the planning part of your rehearsal dinner? Before you go, let’s send you off with a few more tips and tricks to ensure a smooth and stylish soiree. Add this advice to your checklist for you to come back to whenever you need a reminder. 

- __Don’t forget to keep an eye on mother nature.__ Some weather is unpredictable, but keep tabs on the forecast in the days leading up to your rehearsal dinner in case you need to make any last-minute adjustments. 

- __Incorporate a taste of the town.__ Whether you’re celebrating in your backyard or in an upscale restaurant, pay attention to what makes this part of the world different from others. Include some local flavors made famous in that region or any seasonal treats that are hard to find elsewhere. 

- __Let your wedding guests know the best way to dress.__ Being clear about attire is important, especially for your rehearsal dinner. If you have any activities planned that require a change of clothes, give the invitees a heads-up so that they can pack accordingly. Additionally, if you’ve opted for a laid-back get-together, tell your friends and family that it’s okay to keep it casual. 

- __If you’re hosting at home, be sure to give your attendees clear instructions about how to arrive.__ Particularly if your home or the event space is located in a remote area where cell service is sparse, be in touch with them ahead of time in order to avoid losing a friend down a country back road. 

## Design Your Dream Rehearsal Dinner at Zola 
The rehearsal dinner may just seem like one more thing you have to plan on top of your wedding day, but given the right tools and tricks, it can actually be quite easy and fun. Especially, when you let [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) help you take care of the essentials. 

Here at the hub of all things wedding related we believe in:

Helping you celebrate your love through every step of the [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) process.

Sharing the news of your wedding day and the details of your love story on your very own, easy-to-customize [free wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website).

Connecting you with the right florists, photographers, and other [wedding vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to bring each piece of the planning puzzle together into one picture-perfect event.

Your rehearsal dinner is already starting to take shape. Keep molding the magic right here at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/).

Affordable Rehearsal Dinner Ideas

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As of 10/1, the Zola App Community will no longer be available. But, not to worry - we have an amazing community of couples that are looking to share, connect, and vent on Facebook! Join them [HERE](https://www.facebook.com/groups/zolacommunity/).

### Why are you moving the Community to Facebook?

We created the [Zola Community](https://www.facebook.com/groups/zolacommunity/) on Facebook in 2017, with the goal of building community and fostering connection amongst the thousands of engaged couples that are going through the wedding planning process. Since then, this community has grown to over 10,000 people - all having the same experiences, looking for inspiration, and ready to ask their questions!

### Will there be a new Community?

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### What if I need help with my wedding planning?

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