You've probably accepted that your perfect day is bound to have a few imperfect moments—including the breaking of a few of those precious pieces of decor you spent so long designing. But that doesn't mean you can't nip a few faux pas in the bud before it's too late. Here, some of the items most likely to break on your big day (and how to prevent them from doing so).
1. Your Toasting Flutes
This is particularly true for crystal because it's so delicate and unlikely to survive even the slightest abuse. If you're having a sweetheart table that's near a lot of foot traffic (like the dance floor), consider asking someone to put your fine glassware in a safe space once the reception is kickin' and toasts are over. Or if you have special flutes for the cake cutting, ask to have them set out at the last minute instead of during the entire reception.
2. Your Groom's Cummerbund Hook
Whether it's a frequently-used rental or a cummerbund your groom owns but has rarely (if ever) worn, chances are that the secureness of the hook hasn't been checked. Remember, he's not putting his outfit on over and over like you are during your alterations appointments. Slip some safety pins into his tux pocket before the wedding or make sure someone has a few on hand.
3. Your Bustle's Button or Loop
All it takes is for a guest to accidentally be standing on your dress when you make a sudden move, such as hugging someone or running to the dance floor. And while you'll probably be more comfortable moving around in your dress at this point in the day anyway, the extra length dragging on the floor for the rest of the night can terrorize your dress—and your patience. A safety pin may not be the best answer for all fabrics, so include some thin white ribbon, fashion tape, and a mini sewing kit in your emergency bag.
4. A VIP's Nail
Who's popping the champagne for the mimosas? Helping you get in your dress? Peeling off the unsightly sticker on the bottom of a new shoe? It's not you—it's most likely your mom or maid of honor. There's not a whole lot that can be done other than taking a nail file to the damage, but try to be conscious of these moments.
5. A Boutonniere
Florists do their best to create sturdy-yet-elegant boutonnieres, but the buds can easily get crushed or fall off in the middle of all the congratulatory moments. If this happens to one of the VIPs who will appear in the most photographs—the groom, best man, or one of the fathers—ask one of the other groomsmen to offer up his bloom.
—Written by Christie Griffin Authier for Brides.
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