How to announce your wedding and involve your WIPs (Wedding Important People)

There are various levels of Wedding Important People (WIPs), which Rachel from new wedding planning platform The Wedding Party (TWP) says should govern how you tell them.

"Significant WIPs, such as parents or guardians, should be face-to-face wherever possible. Getting families together to announce can kill two birds with one stone, but if your families have not met yet this can produce more nerves. If there are likely to be any reservations, then perhaps speak to your WIPs separately to allow for this. In the same breath, if parents are separated (yours or your partners), arrange to visit them separately but on the same day if possible. Finally, remember that using the video software available to you can ensure that you do this face-to-face no matter the circumstances.
"It is always good to ask the WIPs if they want a formal announcement or are happy for your to just go forth and announce. Starting from this point helps everyone feel important from day one."

Regarding children Rachel says, "Do it quickly and be prepared for questions. Involving them in the process right from day one, can help to blend two families, so plan some fun stuff together to alleviate any little people worries."

She continues, "Whilst your wedding should be planned around the two of you, it is important to keep harmony and balance in your inner circle. Deciding on what you would like when family are paying can come with some expectations. Agree as a couple what is good for you two and stick to it."

Moving onto your WIPs in your wedding party, Rachel says: "We need you to stay focused on the fact that it is you and your beau's day. The wedding party WIPs can be one of the most challenging to manage. Telling your sister/brother/best-friend-from-primary school that they are/aren't going to be in your squad is essential for an easier planning journey. Then you'll know how much of your finances you need to allocate to the wedding party and manage their expectations."

"Asking for their help in achieving your to-do's and being honest with them about what you would like from them from the start is great so, pick those people who are positive from your inner circle and who will keep you calm all the way." Rachel says there are many ways you can make people feel their importance. "Ask them to do a reading, or for musical friends, to play something or sing, buttonholes, colour choices, speeches, and so on. One of the best wedding speeches I ever heard was delivered by a 10-year old, who welcomed her Mum's new husband into the family. Not a dry-eye in the house."

Finally, if you have someone who is making ruffles, Rachel suggests asking a close friend or relative to have a quiet word with them. "They will chat in a much less emotive way and hopefully pour oil on those troubled waters."

The Wedding Party planning platform provides access to (for a fee) the financial planner, tips, advice and guidance on making the best of your finances and the exclusive mind, body and soul section, featuring The Overwhelm Button and much more.