How to handle out of town wedding guests

By LadyKatyMaty

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Out-of-town wedding guests require a little more effort, but isn't it great to see them?

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

stamps
paper and envelopes
internet access
a printer

Step1

Make a list of your out-of-town guests. Let them know as soon as you have decided on a definite date for the ceremony. This can be done via telephone, e-mail, or "save the date" cards. The sooner they know when the wedding will be, the more time they have to plan their trip.

Step2

When you do send out your invitations, include a map of the area surrounding the ceremony and reception sites. You may even want to highlight the fastest route from the highway. This is especially helpful for guests who have never lived in the area.

Step3

Prepare a list of local hotels you would recommend, and be sure to include a few different price ranges. You may also want to make a list of activities that will be going on that weekend. Should your guests choose to make a trip of it, they will need something to do while you are away on your honeymoon. These lists can be sent to the guests with their invitations, or else you can just keep them on hand in case you are asked.

Step4

For those guests that tell you when they plan on being in town, give them a call shortly after their estimated time of arrival. Make sure that they made it safely, are comfortable in their lodging, etc. They are coming to town just to see you, remember, and this common courtesy is easy to forget with so much going on.

Step5

If time allows, try to spend some extra time with your out-of-town guests before the big day. They know you're busy preparing for the wedding, so any quality time with you will be appreciated all the more. Besides, catching up might give you some time to think about something other than the wedding for a little while.

Tips & Warnings

If a lot of your guests are traveling long distances, you may not be able to keep track of them all. You may need to recruit another family member that knows them to entertain them for a day and help them find the ceremony site.
Be sure to mention their trip in your thank-you note after the wedding. They probably had to take a couple of days off work and spend money just to be there for your special day. Don't take it for granted.