Secret weapons: Master & Mistress/Matron of Ceremony

Your best wedding tool is your "army". And the most overlooked jobs are Master & Mistress/Matron of Ceremony. You can choose 1 person or a married couple you admire. They should be people you feel will get the assigned tasks done without much direction from you.
They can do things such as:

• run interference between quarrelling guests (or even between you and certain family members!)
• moving items (flowers, decorations, etc.) to another place after the ceremony
• help clean up after the reception
• drive you & the groom in a special car from the church to reception (who needs a limo? rent a cool luxury car!)
• organize the events at your reception (cake cut, bouquet toss, 1st dance)
• help round up folks for formal photos so they move along faster - I highly recommend this!
• organize the wedding party so they walk down the aisle correctly
• be your advocate about how you want things done in general

Remember the "Mistress" would be an unmarried woman, while a "Matron" is married. And a small thank you gift is definitely required for all the work they'll do!

Your wedding "army"

Every bride has her "army" of friends ready, waiting and willing to take on any wedding task she assigns them. Make sure you use these trusted friends in the best way possible. Think of each one's greatest ability and assign them tasks to fit that. Jane loves flowers and has a green thumb. Let her scope out the local floral shops for you, then take her with you to choose your bouquets. Anna is a great at crafting. Ask her to think up some fabulous table centerpieces and help her create them with a few other friends. Sharon loves dance clubs and is into the hottest hits. Ask her to check on a few DJ's or even live music bands. Then sample their music together. Some DJ's will let you get a sneak peek at another bride's wedding, just be respectful when you do so & don't stay too long. Local bands often play at venues where you can pop in. Henrietta is a wonderful negotiator. Ask her to diffuse any arguments as best she can before they become knock-down fights on your dance floor.
If you're creative and thoughtful about what tasks you assign, your friends will feel even more loved and honored to help you. Don't forget to thank them. A small gift from the heart can mean everything!

Grooms! Don't forget about YOUR wedding "army". Your good male friends can assist your bride's army. Or give them some of those tasks her friends can't complete. Guys can keep the music jumping by making suggestions to the DJ/band. They can guide tipsy relatives to a quiet corner. Guys help nervous grooms (and sometimes brides) get relaxed for formal photos by cracking jokes to bring out natural smiles. (I LOVE THIS and encourage it, by the way!) Guys have the unique opportunity to make things fun & goofy - at any age! Use that great resource and be sure to thank your pals in a special way.