How to Make a Playbook for Your Wedding Day: A Step-by-Step Guide

A script is an indispensable tool for any wedding. Not only does it provide clarity about the course of the day, but it also ensures that everything goes according to plan and that your stress on your big day is kept to a minimum. But how do you actually draw up such a script? Here’s a handy guide to get you started.

1. Start with the big picture

Before you dive into the details, it’s important to first map out the bigger picture of your wedding day. Think about the most important moments such as the ceremony, dinner and party.

Essential moments:

• Ceremony: The most important event of the day. When and where does it take place?
• Reception: When does the reception start and what happens during this time?
• Dinner: What is the time of dinner and what is the order of the courses?
• Celebration: When does the party start, and are there special moments such as the opening dance?

2. Create a detailed timetable

A good script contains a detailed timetable in which all events on the day are planned minute by minute. Start with the time of arrival at the wedding venue and work your way through the day.

Timetable Ideas:

• Morning: Start with the preparations. Think of the bride’s hair and makeup, and the photographer’s arrival.
• Noon: The ceremony, followed by the reception and group photos.
• Evening: The dinner and then the party.

Make sure you take plenty of time for each activity so that there is no stress when something runs late.

3. Consider the logistics

The script must also take into account the logistical side of the wedding. Think of the movements between locations, the transport of guests and the setting up and dismantling of decorations.

Logistical points:

• Transport: How do you and the guests get from the ceremony location to the party location?
• Time to build up: Make sure there is enough time for setting up decorations and setting up equipment.
• Demolish: Who is responsible for cleaning up after the party?

4. Coordinate with suppliers

To ensure that everything goes on time and according to plan, it is important to communicate well with all suppliers involved in the wedding, such as the caterer, photographer, florist and DJ. Include their schedules in your playbook and make sure everyone knows what is expected of them.

Suppliers at a glance:

• Photographer: When does the photographer arrive, and when are specific photos taken?
• Caterer: At what times should the food and drinks be served?
• DJ/Band: When do they start playing and what special moments (such as the opening dance) should they keep an eye on?

5. Involve your master of ceremonies and witnesses

The master of ceremonies is the pivot of the day and must ensure that the script is followed accurately. Make sure he or she has a clear version of the script and that he or she is fully aware of all the plans.

Stakeholders:

• Master of ceremonies: He or she coordinates the day and is the point of contact for questions.
• Testify: Make sure they know when to attend and what responsibilities they have during the ceremony and party.

6. Keep room for unexpected events

Although you make a script to make the day run smoothly, it is good to take into account unexpected events or delays. Schedule extra time between different parts of the day so that there is room for delays without messing up the entire schedule.

Tips for flexibility:

• Room: Leave 10 to 15 minutes between the different parts of the day.
• Stress-free: By scheduling extra time, you avoid unnecessary stress in the event of minor delays.

7. Have a backup plan

Unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather or technical problems can disrupt your wedding day. Therefore, make sure you have a backup plan, for example an indoor location in case the weather is bad.

Backup ideas:

• Weather: What do you do if it rains during an outdoor wedding?
• Technique: What is the plan if the sound system or other equipment does not work?

8. Test your schedule in practice

Once your script is ready, it is important to go through it and test it. Go through the schedule with your master of ceremonies, any suppliers involved, and your witnesses to see if everything is logical and feasible. This way you avoid surprises on the day itself.

Test the playbook:

• Simulation: Go through the playbook step-by-step to identify any issues.
• Feedback: Ask for feedback from your master of ceremonies and suppliers to adjust the script where necessary.

9. Give a playbook to everyone involved

There’s no point in creating a comprehensive playbook if you don’t share it with those involved in organizing the wedding. Make sure your master of ceremonies, suppliers and any witnesses get a copy of the script, so that everyone is aware of the schedule and knows what is expected of them.

Sharing the script:

• Master of ceremonies: Make sure he or she has a clear version with all the details.
• Suppliers: Give each supplier the information that is relevant to him or her.
• Guests: Consider sharing a concise version of the playbook with guests so they know what to expect.

10. Enjoy your day

The most important thing about the whole wedding is that you and your partner enjoy your special day. The playbook is a helpful guide, but remember that small delays or changes aren’t the end of the world. As long as you are surrounded by loved ones and everything goes well overall, your wedding day will definitely be a success.

Enjoy Tips:

• Relax: Trust your master of ceremonies and suppliers to keep everything on track.
• Moments: Take the time to consciously enjoy the beautiful moments during the day.

A playbook makes your wedding day smooth and carefree

Creating a playbook for your wedding day is an essential step in ensuring that everything runs smoothly. By planning carefully and taking into account all those involved and events, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy this special day to the fullest. Wedding Company wishes you good luck with drawing up your script and a wonderful wedding day!