The menu is set, flowers ordered, dress altered, and gifts received. You have thought of everything for your wedding and look forward to seeing your guests' smiling faces at the ceremony and reception. Whereas you will be busy with salon appointments, bridesmaid brunch, and final preparations, the out-of-town guests may be stranded in an unfamiliar location with nothing to occupy their time. Help them round out a wonderful weekend with these tips.

Welcome guests to your hometown or destination locale with a greeting packet at the hotels. These can be as simple as folders including all the festivities, or more elaborate gift bags filled with goodies. At the very least, include a list of all events (noting which are by invitation only) with times and locations, contact numbers, and simple maps with directions from the hotel. If you choose to go all out, some much appreciated items may be: aspirin (for the morning after!), maps from the visitor bureau, bottled waters, treats special to the region (pralines in New Orleans, for example), and a special note from the happy couple thanking the guests for going the distance to share in the big day.

For weddings taking place in especially tourist-heavy places such as New York City or Charleston, S.C., a list of suggested restaurants and activities close by will help travelers fill the empty hours. Even if the accommodations provide on-site dining, many guests will want to actually experience the city rather than the walls of the hotel. Give options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with any guilty pleasures that can't be missed such as the best home-made milkshakes or an old-school local diner. Also, point out a few of the bride and groom's favorite attractions like an outdoor ice skating rink or dolphin watching tours. At the end of the weekend, guests will have wonderful memories of not only your special union but also the entertaining setting.

Many brides choose the traditional route and plan hometown weddings in their first church with the receptions taking place in family houses, golf or swim clubs, and historic sites. Should your town go far on nostalgia but lack in activity, perhaps you can create a location where guests can congregate. If any friends have offered to host a shower or party for the bride and groom, instead ask that they sponsor a hospitality suite at one of the hotels. Once beverages, snacks, cocktails, and music (via iPod speakers or stereo) are provided, guests will have a place to mingle and relax during the downtime. An obliging friend may even offer their own home for a hang out location, but be sure to impose a curfew... even the most gracious host objects to knocks on the door after midnight!

Also take into account the more typical logistical needs your friends and family may encounter as well. Along with the fun locations nearby, list any pharmacies, shopping centers, discount stores, etc. where forgotten items can be found. Newly enforced limitations on luggage size and carry-on restrictions cause many travelers to not bring full size shampoos or razors that will need to be purchased.

By taking a few extra steps, couples can ensure their friends and family enjoy not only the celebrations, but the full weekend. As one bad experience can foul a trip, your guests instead will return home with wonderful memories of their own as well.

-- Jennifer Mackethan