Top 5 things you should practice before your central Iowa wedding day!

Amid the chaos and stress of planning a wedding, it's important to practice a few things before the big day! Here are five key elements to focus on: your vows, first dance, first kiss, hair and makeup, and bustling your dress.

Mastering Your Vows

Preparing your wedding vows is a vital part of your ceremony. Whether you choose to write your own or stick to traditional vows, rehearsal is key. Begin by sitting together in a quiet setting to discuss the emotions you want to express.

When crafting your vows, reflect on your unique journey together. Share specific memories or milestones that mean a lot to you both, like your first trip together or a moment when you knew you were soulmates. Aim for a balance between humor and heartfelt sincerity. After writing your vows, practice reading them aloud at least ten times. This will help with memorization and let you adjust the rhythm and emotion, maximizing their impact on your partner and guests.

To gain additional confidence, consider rehearsing in front of supportive family members or close friends. Their feedback can help you further refine your delivery and make the moment even more special.

Perfecting the First Dance

The first dance is a beautiful way to celebrate your new life together. Selecting a song that resonates with your relationship is crucial. For example, many couples opt for classics like "At Last" by Etta James or modern favorites like "All of Me" by John Legend. Aim for a song that evokes important feelings for you both.

Once you've chosen your song, practice your dance steps regularly, even if only for 30 minutes a week. Consider taking a dance class together for expert guidance. Focus on connection and comfort with each other; remember, this dance is about sharing a moment rather than showcasing complicated moves.

Try practicing in a similar space to your venue if possible. If your venue has a large dance floor, you might want to mimic the dimensions, which will help you feel more at ease on the big day.

Practicing the First Kiss

The first kiss as a married couple should feel both natural and memorable. Have a discussion with your partner about what you envision for this moment. There’s no need for choreography, but being synchronized can help reduce any awkwardness.

Picture the moment leading up to the kiss. Will it happen right after you say your vows, or when the officiant pronounces you husband and wife? Practicing this moment casually can ease nerves and create excitement.

Don’t forget about photography! Discuss when and how you want your photographer to capture the kiss. Not only will this ensure stunning images, but it allows you to focus entirely on the magic of the moment.

Perfecting Your Hair and Makeup

Your wedding day look is a reflection of your personal style and can significantly boost your confidence. Schedule at least two trials for your hair and makeup leading up to your wedding day. Bring along visual references, such as photos of looks you admire, to clearly communicate your vision to your stylist.

During these trials, pay close attention to how each look holds up. For example, a makeup test might reveal that a certain foundation doesn’t last as long as you hoped, or that your hairstyle falls flat after a few hours. Use these sessions to make necessary adjustments to ensure your look lasts.

Be proactive—take pictures of your favorite styles during your trials. Having these photos handy will help your stylist recreate the look you love on the wedding day.

Bustling Your Dress

A stunning wedding dress is often the centerpiece of your ceremony, yet it can be a challenge to manage during the reception. Knowing how to bustle your dress is essential to ensure ease of movement. Schedule a fitting with your dressmaker to understand the different bustle styles available, such as the American bustle or French bustle.

Once you have chosen a bustle style, practice with family or friends. It may take several tries to ensure it goes smoothly. This practice will make you feel prepared and ready to enjoy the celebration without worrying about tripping over your dress.

Assign a reliable friend or family member to assist with bustling during the event. Ensure they are familiar with the technique so you can relax and fully enjoy your festivities, knowing someone has your back.

The Journey Ahead

As your big day approaches, remember to breathe deeply and enjoy the journey. Love is at the heart of a wedding, and with these preparations in place, you’ll be able to cherish every moment of your unforgettable celebration together.

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