Wedding Planning & Medically Challenged Couples and Guests

By Lesley Pinder, WPICC of Lesley Pinder Wedding & Events

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Being informed, adaptable, attentive, empathetic and patient are among the key components necessary for all Wedding Planners and Industry Professionals.

Weddings are symbolic for several reasons. The wedding ring, exchange of vows and the collaboration between families and couples of all ethnic backgrounds combine to create that once in a lifetime experience. Marriage represents a solid foundation, strength and unity. As industry guardians, we are the “Go to” person for both couples and guests with high expectations. Servicing and assisting with every aspect from the initial contact to the last dance. We dispel problems and create solutions for our clients.

The task of navigating through the catalogue of medical challenges that people face may appear difficult to some, but what we bring to the table as Wedding Planners or Industry Professionals in this business sets us apart. Today, medical conditions can run the gamut.

Some of the top medical challenges we may encounter in crafting the perfect day for our clients include:

• Hearing & Visual Impairments
• Non-Verbal Impairment
• Persons with Disabilities (Wheelchairs, Walkers, Limb Loss)
• Medical Disorders (Ischemic Attack, Neurological, Respiratory & Mental Disorders)

The first thing we must ensure is that our teams are sensitive and adequately prepared to meet the needs of the hearing and non-verbal impaired. The use of sign language allows us to communicate effectively with Couples and Guests in addition to paying attention to their commands, gestures and body language. Investing in a Sign Language course increases your marketability with this type of client.

The visually impaired should feel confident that they are in a safe environment and their needs are being met.

When selecting venues for the impaired, safety is paramount

Attention to details such as ensuring that they are adequate disability considerations such as wheelchair ramps, restroom facilities and skid proof flooring are some of the considerations to factor into venue selection.

It is important for wedding planners and professionals to be ready to render assistance and support to those with challenges and limitations.

Couples and guests often have medical disorders or food sensitivities. Weddings can be long and grueling. Understanding from the client, the medical considerations of the guests and participants, is key to ensuring the food service for the event is prepared accurately. Requesting special meals and monitoring timelines for food service is necessary.

Incorrect meal selection or service could prove detrimental and ruin all of the preparation and plans for that special day. Diabetics, for example, must adhere to meal and medication timelines. It is also important that we have a basic understanding or knowledge of life support, in the event of a medical emergency. Planners must be sure to include a medical evacuation plan, and be equipped to manage and assist until further medical assistance arrives.

We coordinate, plan, manage and execute.

“To the world, we may be one person, but to one person, we are the world and to each other”. We are that “One Person”.