Your wedding day is the day to celebrate you and your significant other’s love for one another and reminisce about happy memories. No one wants a blast from the past in a human form that reminds you about past mistakes. No one wants drama, especially on the biggest day of your life. When planning your guest list, consider the pros and cons and the do’s and don’ts before you send out a save-the-date.

Invite Your Ex Only If:

Your relationship ended when you were young and things are settled.

Relationships that lasted through school or high school are ones that most of us laugh over when we grow into adults. If your issues are settled and both of you are friends, then there shouldn’t be an issue. Do bear in mind that you should always double check with your partner and possibly his family whether they will be comfortable with it or not. If there is a possibility that it will invoke some bitterness, then we advise you to avoid sending the invitation.

You were married at one point or parent children together.

First, make sure everyone around you is comfortable with the notion of your ex being in attendance during the proceedings. Such a step is great if you wish to be more accepting of one another’s respective partners and help out your children adjust to the new life together.

Do Not at Any Cost Invite Your Ex If:

Everyone is not fully comfortable with the idea.

This day should be about you and your better half. The mere possibility of raised eyebrows should be a warning sign. People tend to hold on to the past therefore regardless of your stance with your ex, we suggest, it would be best to not do it.

You are concerned about their behavior.

Unless you fully trust your ex with good behavior and expect no outbursts or inappropriate behavior after one too many glasses of champagne, then only should you consider inviting them. It is best to avoid a scene of any kind.

You are worried about their Plus 1’s behavior.

Weddings are a sensitive affair that can trigger memories associated with quite a few unspoken events. A plus 1 is more than just risky business because they might unleash some unresolved feelings of their own in such settings. This one has too many red flags; therefore, avoid a situation such as this at all costs.

You will struggle while introducing the others.

If you are socially awkward and struggle with introductions, the last thing you need is to introduce your ex to a family member as a friend. It can hurt some feelings and trigger some unresolved emotions. Even introducing them as your ex can lead to some awkwardness and general unease. If you are bad with phrasing, don’t do it.

Weddings should be celebrated smoothly without avoidable glitches, fights, or drama. Only go for it if you are absolutely sure.

The day two souls commit to loving and supporting each other through through thick and thin, calls for a special gift for one another. It does not necessarily have to be a lavish item that will cost a fortune. It could be a small and inexpensive item that commemorates a special moment the two of you shared, or perhaps an inside joke to brighten up your day, the idea is to make is thoughtful, creative, and special. Here are a few of our favorite ideas.

A Handwritten Love Letter

Perhaps the simplest, yet the most thoughtful and heartwarming gift of all is a handwritten letter documenting your love and the special moments you shared together. Reminisce about your journey together. Put your heart and soul into it, take your time, and write the best letter you have ever written because this one will probably end up in a special place.

A Gift for the Honeymoon

A wedding gift is a unique and fun way of revealing the kind of trip you have been planning for each other. You might be planning it together but throwing in a surprise here and there, is exciting and thoughtful. It could be tickets to a concert that you and your partner love, a travel item, or just a small token from a previous trip you took together. Again, the trick is to use your imagination to create something incredible from a simple memory or moment.

Post-Wedding De-stressor

The entire process of planning a wedding till the day of the event itself is stressful and absolutely exhausting. After rushing through a physical and emotional roller-coaster, you both could use some peace and quiet to de-stress. Depending on one another’s interest, gift your significant other with something they love to do when things get too overwhelming. A spa date is an excellent option to massage away all that constrained tension inside your body.

A Handmade Token of Love and Appreciation

Nothing says personal and heartfelt like a handmade gift.  It could be a photo album, a keepsake, or maybe even a scrapbook. Whatever it is – make sure it’s something to commemorate and immortalize your love for one another.

Something that makes them Laugh

Think about your best inside joke and a gift that may remind one another of the fun times you shared.Transform an inside joke into a present and start your new life together with a good old laugh.

 

One thing that you’ll hear from almost every couple is that everything will happen so fast it will be a blur! You will set the date, start arrangements and in the blink of an eye, you will be standing in front of all of your guests cutting the wedding cake. Throughout the planning process, you’ll hear talk about the budget, the logistics, and so much more – but here are 10 things no one tells you about your wedding day:

1.   10 minutes prior the Ceremony

Ten minutes just before you take your walk down the aisle you’ll be anxious. It’s natural, you are making the decision of your life, and about to take the stage before your loved ones and friends. Take this time to think about your soon to be better half. Do not forget he or she is the reason you are here, and all the other details won’t matter in years to come.

2.   The Perfect Part is The Ceremony

Do your best to be present and enjoy the moment. This is the part you’ll want to remember for years to come.

3.   Crying Moments

Face it, tears will happen at one point, so come so be prepared. Add some extra tissues, lipstick, and mascara for brisk touchups.

4.   Smiling will make your Face Ache

You may feel like you smiled for an entire 24 hours straight (and you have actually done so) – you’ll be overwhelmed by the joy of not only marrying your best friend, but also by seeing your friends and family who have all taken the time to celebrate you.

5.   You will be overwhelmed by the support and love of your loved ones

You will be the center of attention and likely overwhelmed by the camera flashes, hugs and support. Enjoy it. It’s your day.

6.   Spend some Moments alone

It’s your day, it is imperative to spend few moments (alone) with your better half to overcome your emotions.

7.   An Exhausting Day for Sure

The wedding day will be exhausting. You’ll be surrounded by people, overwhelmed by emotion, concentrating on the success of the event and more. Remember concealer and a planner will likely be your best friends.

8.   It will end up different

Your wedding day will never go exactly as you planned. Know this beforehand and keep your focus on enjoying every moment rather than stressing over the details.

9.   Magical Moments come Unannounced

It can be something completely unexpected, like a speech by a roommate, your dad’s hug or a stolen moment with your spouse, treasure these little moments.

10.  A different feel

Even if you have attended dozens of weddings, you will never know how special your big day will feel until it happens. Do what feels right for you and your soon-to-be spouse. Don’t worry about what’s expected of you, make your day yours.