In Jamaica, one of the fresh ceremony themes created by Karen Bussen for Palladium Resorts
Event planner and author Karen Bussen (Simple Stunning Parties at Home, Simple Stunning Bride) has recently partnered with Palladium Resorts to create a series of wedding packages that bring a generous dash of perfection to the tropics. We asked her to share the three items every couple forgets when packing for their destination wedding. Here’s what she said:
1. Spares “Brides and grooms usually remember the main things—gown, shoes, tux. But they often forget to bring spare items—for example, an extra shirt and tie for the groom. I recommend he pack a replacement shirt for his wedding outfit (tuxedo shirt, dress shirt, guayabera) in case of spills, or if he just wants to change between a sunny outdoor ceremony and reception. For the bride, an extra pair of shoes that’s more comfortable than her “dress” pair is often overlooked—you’re on your feet a lot during portraits, ceremony, cocktails, and dancing, so having those cute but comfy kitten heels or flats (or even flip-flops), can mean happy toes and more dancing!”
2) Personalized note cards “Nothing is more gracious than a handwritten note on personal stationery, especially at a destination far from home. Bring a box of beautiful note cards with your monogram, and use them to pen notes to your bridesmaids, your parents, even service providers who’ve done a great job. Pack a special card for your groom and take a moment to write him a note on the morning of your wedding; have it delivered while he’s getting ready for the ceremony. He’ll treasure it forever.”
3) An emergency kit “Brides often overlook the little things that can help in a pinch. Pack a cute tote or makeup-style bag with a sewing kit, safety pins, fashion tape, a stain-removing pen, breath mints, pocket-packs of tissues, pain reliever, shoe pads for blisters, stomach soothers for nervous tummies, and nail polish and remover. Add a file with photocopies of passports or IDs, marriage-related legal documents, boarding passes and itineraries/confirmations, and large-type, double-spaced print-outs of your vows and readings, as well as a ceremony outline, a basic timeline, and a contact list for all your service providers. If you’ve got extra room, toss in a travel-sized scented candle to burn while you prep for the ceremony—it will relax you and make you feel at home!”
