As your wedding approaches and your checklists become more and more complete, there is something that you absolutely cannot forget. A clean-up plan.
Remember that yours is likely not the only wedding happening at your venue that weekend and that at some point, all your beautiful decorations, gifts, flowers, and accessories need to make it from the venue – to not at the venue. This is usually early the next day, but sometimes venues require you to clear your belongings that night.
Now before you think ‘that’s fine, I’ll do it myself’ – stop, no you will not. For a multitude of reasons, hiking up your dress and packing up your wedding is not an option.
Utilize Friends and Family:
Often, a couple has a surplus of people who volunteer to help with their wedding day. Before you dismiss those offers, keep in mind that people want to be involved in your big day – in fact, they crave it. What’s key is giving them enough time to properly prepare. Does your bestie’s boyfriend drive a big truck that can carry all your gifts? Cool, make sure they come in his car, not the little hatchback.
Next, Have a Plan:
It is important to know where things are going and who is in charge of what. Have boxes clearly labeled and accessible so that the person in charge of them can grab and go without having to ask any questions.
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Have a copy of this plan handy for your day of coordinator so they know who is in charge of what.
Delegate:
Have a point person in charge of clean up who has a copy of the plan and who will keep everyone on track. We suggest an aunt or close friend rather than your mom.
Don’t forget the Flowers:
Rather than simply expecting your flowers to get scooped up by guests, have a plan for them. Since your guests may be from out of town, the last thing they want is to be carrying a vase back to their hotel and then onto a plane.
To save your flowers simply being tossed out at the end of the night, opt instead to give them to your vendors. Another great idea is to have someone collect them at the end of the night and donate them to a retirement home or hospital. Contact the place of your choice beforehand to ensure they can use the flowers and then feel good about bringing a little joy to someone else’s life.
Don’t Underestimate the Clean Up:
It is likely that you spent months gathering all the little bits that go into your wedding. It is also likely that because of this you are underestimating the amount of stuff you have actually brought to the venue. As such, be sure you have enough people to help with the clean-up and that you leave enough time for it!
