With 3 days to go till my sister’s wedding, the tensions are running high. A recent comment from my dad was that he hopes I am learning from this experience. It goes without say that I am learning about both what to do and what not to do but perhaps the most interesting part has been the use of technology in planning a wedding. So here are my bridal technology tips:  

1. Use the enormous online collective brain – Do a search on any term including wedding and you find thousands of websites. While a lot of them are advertisements for products, there is also a lot of useful information out there. The clueless can get advice on protocol and etiquette. The overwhelmed can get creative ideas and suggestions on everything from how to write their own vows to cool honeymoon locations. The self-conscious can get tips on how to select a dress that flatters their figure. I would definitely suggest using some kind of internet research software, such as NetSnippets, to keep track of the sites you find useful.
2. Shop online – Other than ‘the dress’ which most brides would like to buy in person, much of the other wedding paraphernalia (invitations, favours/souvenirs, bridal party gifts etc.) can be bought online. This can make it easier or harder on the bride. If you are overwhelmed when faced with too many choices then perhaps this is not the route for you. But if you have a good idea of what you want then this may be easier than trying to find a local supplier who has it or getting them to source it for you (at a tremendous markup) Wedding portals (like The Knot) are a good starting point.
3. Table arrangements – Go ahead and use a spreadsheet to keep track of numbers such as guests, RSVPs etc. Paper lists are confusing and difficult to sort and share. There are websites that offer services like this allowing you to keep your data online (such as that provided by the Sandals website). This is a personal choice between having your data in your possession or having it available to you from anywhere when you’re away from your PC. Just make sure if you’re doing it yourself that you back up regularly.
4. Check the site – This needs to be your response to anyone asking how the planning is going or wanting information. You can set up a website to provide information (details, directions, photographs etc.), to provide updates (blog your progress, send mass emails etc.), collect feedback (RSVPs, well wishes etc.). You can set up a wedding specific site at eWedding or WeddingWindow, or use a general hosted blogging service like WordPress (my preference) or Blogger.
5. Register online – Especially if you have guests from all across the globe, this is a no-brainer. While a local registry is nice, setting up online can provide a greater selection and the convenience of checking online who has purchased which gift so you know what you still need to get. Many major stores and websites provide registry services online – just make sure they accept non-US credit cards if this is a factor for your guests.
6. Bridal party emails – This one is a more minor consideration than the others but can prove very helpful if your bridal party live in different countries. Making sure they have each other’s contact info can help them get to know each other before the big day and allow them to coordinate and plan both for the wedding (in terms of hair appointments, accessories etc. ) and other things (like the bridal shower).

P.S. I have included this post in the ProBlogger List Project so go check out some of the other lists posted. I will link to some of the more interesting ones shortly.