Planning your wedding can take years or can come together in a matter of months but no matter how much time you have to prepare there are bound to be things you forget. To make sure your big day goes off without a hitch (except the obvious ‘getting hitched’ part) here are 10 tips for organizing easily forgotten details:

Make a schedule and print the programs

This is my number one tip as it ensures that is a time slot for everything. Be realistic about length of time required and then stick to it. Writing the schedule will give you the opportunity to remember all the details you want to include. Create a less detailed version as a program for your guests so they know what is happening next and where they’re supposed to be.

Remember the marriage certificate

This is essential for a legally binding marriage and yet it is often forgotten or misplaced. Make sure you you apply for your marriage certificate in good time and that it is at the right venue on the day. In the UK you must give your local register office notice at least 16 days prior to the wedding as your ‘banns’  must  be publicly displayed for a minimum of 15 days.

Give your photographer a list of the most important pictures you want taken

If you’re not totally clear your photographer will be in the dark. Along with professional shots why not arrange for a second photographer? Ask a family member or friend, who’s good with a camera to shoot pictures throughout the day. You’ll get a lovely mix of natural shots to integrate with your posed ones.

The ‘in case of emergency’ kit

By this I mean a kit of simple fixes for any conceivable problem; a sewing kit to deal with any snags on dresses, trouser hems etc, a stain stick to remove any splotches from clothes, hair pins and hair spray and a couple of simple first aid items as well- it’s surprising how often this is needed.

Organize a private bride and groom room

Your wedding day will be a constant flow of activity which may mean you and you partner never get a chance to take it all in. If you’re not staying the night at your reception venue just ask the venue to set up a dressing room area where you can relax as a couple for short periods.

Request an outdoor drinks area

If you’re having any part of your reception out of doors keep things simple by arranging mobile bar hire. This will avoid the fuss of guests or staff walking to and from the indoor bar.

Eat something

Remember that it’s going to be a long day so make time to eat and drink to keep your energy up. Equally remember to lay on finger food for guests if there are long intervals in the day e.g. serve canapes at the cocktail hour and a midnight snack for the evening guests so no one goes hungry. This will also curb the impact of all the champagne.

Make an effort to say hello to every guest

You’ve invited them to your wedding to celebrate your union so it would be a shame miss speaking to anyone of them. This is where your wedding schedule comes in handy. Write in several specific times into your personal schedule to do the rounds. One of the best chances you’ll get is when everyone is seated for dinner.

A contact list for your suppliers and entertainment staff

If your DJ is an hour late and you can’t find his phone number this can be a little upsetting. You shouldn’t have to worry about these things so make a list of all the contact numbers you might need hand this over to someone else and have that person make the calls rather than you so you can keep enjoying the day.

Some money

You don’t have to carry money yourself but ask one of your wedding party, it could be the same person with the contact list, to keep some cash on them for you. Even on your special day there might be an unexpected need for cash. If you haven’t set up an open bar then even the bride and groom will have to pay for drinks. It could be embarrassing for you or the staff if you’re caught short.

Finally just enjoy yourself, don’t worry if there is a mix up with the cake or your ring bearer is sick. After all, your wedding is really about cementing your relationship with your partner and celebrating the love between you so your day will be perfect no matter what.