Weddings are such a joyful occasion, aren’t they? And if someone close to you is planning one—whether it’s your child, grandchild, niece, or godchild—it’s only natural to want to help in some way. You may already have plenty of wedding experience of your own, or you might be watching all the new trends from the sidelines, wondering how things have changed over the years.
Either way, this post is for you—someone who cares deeply about the person getting married and, given the opportunity, is keen to offer calm, kind, and useful support as they plan their big day.
Big Wedding or Small – What’s Right for Them?
Some couples still dream of the big white wedding. The grand venue, the full guest list, the little details all coming together in a magical celebration. But as we all know, weddings have changed. For some, a smaller gathering feels more personal and relaxed. Others may love the idea of a big bash but not quite have the budget—or the appetite—for the fuss that comes with it.
There’s no one right way anymore. The perfect wedding is the one that feels right for the couple getting married. That might sound obvious, but sometimes, in the excitement of planning and helping, it’s easy to forget that their preferences might not match tradition—or even your own.
Your Role – Support Without Pressure
You’ve likely been through big life moments yourself. So you know how valuable it is to feel supported without being steered. If you’re involved in the planning process, your calm presence and gentle reminders can help them focus on what truly matters—each other. That kind of guidance is priceless.
Encourage them to plan a wedding that reflects who they are—not what’s trending or what’s expected. If they want tradition, lovely. If they want something simpler or a bit offbeat, that’s fine too. What lasts isn’t the performance—it’s the memories.
Getting Organised – Help Them Find Their Starting Point
One of the biggest sources of wedding stress is simply not knowing where to begin. You can help by encouraging them to take the first step: a simple brainstorming session between just the two of them. Let them dream a little! The dress, the venue, the music, the guest list, even the food—this is the fun part.
Once their vision takes shape, you might help them break it down into manageable parts. A folder, a spreadsheet, or even a shared online document can go a long way in making things feel achievable rather than overwhelming.
Here’s something I did when I was planning my own wedding (at 45, so I know what it’s like to do it with a bit of life experience): I even looked at castles! We ended up going with a venue that felt more “us”—not because of cost, but because it offered more privacy and comfort. That’s really what matters.
If you can offer that kind of perspective—one that reassures without pushing—it might make all the difference.
A Word on Budget
Most couples have a budget in mind, but the details can get fuzzy fast. Supporting them to list out what they’ll need—and estimate costs early on—can help them avoid last-minute panic.
There might even be ways you can pitch in, not just financially, but practically. Know someone who bakes a great cake? Have a family heirloom that could be worn or carried on the day? These little things are often the most treasured parts of a wedding. My mam helped me make our invitations and my veil. My husband and I created our floral displays, bouquets and corsages. A few good friends provided sumptuous cakes for the afternoon tea and even my dress was pre-loved as they say. I had it altered locally and I loved it. We didn’t go for a professional photographer. In relation to the photography, we were in luck. My sister, a keen and able ameteur photographer, agreed to take on the responsibility. Her shots along with contributions from other members of the family plus anyone else who had some to add gave us lots of imagery to remember our big day by. It was great. We got all the main groupings and plenty of impromptu shots too.
If they’re open to it, you could suggest looking at handmade or creative alternatives for things like invitations or wedding favours. Sometimes those become the most personal and memorable touches.
It’s Their Day – But You’re a Part of It Too
While it’s important that the couple makes the final decisions, don’t underestimate the value of having someone to bounce ideas off. You might find yourself being the calm voice in a sea of Pinterest boards and guest list debates.
Just knowing you’re there, not to take over but to cheer them on, is often enough.
Gifting Ideas – Thoughtful, Beautiful and Personal
Another lovely way to support a couple getting married is through gifts that go beyond the registry. If you’re on the lookout for something meaningful, consider giving something they’ll treasure long after the big day.
My Lapanda Designs gemstone jewellery collection is full of timeless pieces that make beautiful gifts for bridesmaids, close family members, or even the couple themselves.
Why Gemstone Jewellery?
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It’s personal and symbolic – Gemstones carry meaning and sentiment.
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It’s timeless – Good unique jewellery pieces never date.
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It’s wearable beyond the wedding day – A lovely bracelet or necklace becomes part of someone’s everyday story.
Each piece is handcrafted with love and care—just like the best weddings are.
Final Thoughts – Gentle Encouragement Goes a Long Way
If someone you love is planning a wedding, the best gift you can offer might just be your reassurance. Reminding them that perfection isn’t the goal but joy, love, and good memories are what matter. The planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Sometimes just sitting down with a cup of tea and going through a list together can work wonders.
Do you remember planning your own wedding? Or helping someone else with theirs? I’d love to hear your take on how things have changed—or stayed the same.
✨ [Browse the Gemstone Jewellery Collection here] ✨
Warm wishes,
Amanda
