Sugar Hollow Weddings... A Guide for the Guests

You've gotten the invitation in the mail... Your best friend from college, who you still keep in close contact with, has decided to have a destination wedding. Your brain starts going 90 miles per hour thinking about the logistics - Do you have the time? Do you feel like traveling to an unfamiliar place for just a weekend? Then a feeling of sudden calm comes out of nowhere when you come to the realization that you are the wedding guest and your job is to have a good time and be there for your friend.

Here are a few ways to make the best of your time...

1. Turn this trip into a mini-vacation. Stop dreading the thoughts of how tired you'll be after a weekend of fun and instead concentrate on having fun.

2. Plan ahead as this will help you make the most of your time. More than likely old friends will be attending, so call them and coordinate your plans. Since the wedding will be here at Sugar Hollow, getting together will be even easier. Also, be sure to make any rental car or other reservations in advance.

3. Check out the local attractions on our web site. The more you know about coming here to visit, the more time you will be able to spend enjoying yourself once you get here.

4. Send your wedding gifts ahead of time. This way you won't have to lug the packages along with you.

5. If at all possible, do not take a night flight before a morning wedding. That is exhausting. If you have a friend who will also be attending and will be flying, try to book your flights together.

6. If flying, do not check your essentials or you could be left wearing your sneakers and blue jeans to the event.

7. Unless it is absolutely necessary, do not bring work with you on the trip. Try to enjoy the in-flight movie (unless it is Snakes on a Plane), or read a book. Remember mini-vacation...

8. While you are here, make yourself at home. As soon as you arrive, unpack your bags. You'll be much more comfortable if you are not constantly having to yank things out of your suitcase.

9. Indulge a little. Take a catnap, or sleep in. Dance at the wedding and have a great time.

10. When planning your trip home, try to arrive early enough insure you get a good night's sleep.

Keep in mind that the few days before a wedding are the most stressful for the bride and groom. If you are not in the mood to sightsee, they are sure to appreciate any assistance you can give. It will give you a chance to catch up with the wedding party as well as feel like you've had a hand in helping them with their special day.