Too Many Last Minute No-Shows?

One thing that can put a serious cramp in your wedding joy is too many last minute no-shows.  Whether we're talking about vendors, guests or members of the bridal party, no-shows are a big bummer.  When you're dealing with too many last minute no-shows, these tips may be helpful.

Vendors

When hiring your vendors, one of the most important things to do is to inquire about what happens if someone is sick or unable to make it to the wedding.  You want to be doubly sure that the vendor is prepared for the worst - whether it's a DJ, the officiant or the caterer.  Aside from ensuring there aren't too many last minute no-shows by having a plan B with each vendor, keep a few others on hand incase you need to replace the no-show.  This is why it's important to interview a few different vendors for each position and note your 2^nd or 3^rd choices incase your 1^st doesn't show.

Guests 

Sometimes it can seem like guests forget their RSVP cards until a week or a few days before the wedding.  This can be really frustrating.  However, it can give you the opportunity to invite others that you may have left out previously due to budget or location capacity.  If you only have a few days to go before the wedding, an invitation will probably not make it.  Give these guests a phone call and let them know that it has come to your attention that they were not invited.  Ask them personally if they would like to attend and give them any other needed information such as apparel guidelines, whether or not to bring a guest and similar topics.

Bridal Party

The chances that you will have too many last minute no-shows in your bridal party are slim; after all, these are your closest friends and family.  However, if it does happen at the last minute, it's probably too late to replace them.  This is especially true if dresses or tuxes have already been ordered.  You may have to simply accept the guests you know are coming and leave it at that.  Don't be too hard on the no-shows, though, at least until you're sure of their reasoning.

Last minute no-shows can be really frustrating and discouraging.  However, the guests and vendors will not affect how happy you are with your new husband.  Take heart in that and enjoy your beautiful day.