You have planned your wedding day, from the big decisions on where to get married to the type of food you want to eat, to the color of the napkins. Every detail has been chosen to fit your vision, and now its time to focus on YOU!
As a wedding photographer for over 7 years, here are a few tips I give to each of my bride and groom’s to ensure they are prepared for their perfect day.
With these recommendations, this will assure you will not have anyone bombard you with questions as you are taking in every moment together and with your loved ones.
Details
If this is not something you want your photographer to photograph, skip to #3. If you want your photographer to document your details, I recommend getting these items together in a box(shoe box is most popular) a week before your wedding. This helps you stay organized, and drastically helps your photographer on your wedding day. Designate one person in your bridal part to give the box to your photographer when they arrive so this is one less thing for you to worry about, and they can begin shortly after they arrive.
Some popular details to include are invitations, menu, rings, something blue, something popular jewelry, garter, cuff links, cologne and perfume, shoes, vow books and a veil.
Steamer
This may sound silly, but trust me, more brides and grooms need a steamer on their wedding day than is talked about. From transporting your dress and suit to hanging it up, it is something that is overlooked that makes sure you are ready to walk down the aisle. Some venues have them on site so definitely ask your venue coordinator, but if not there are some great affordable options on Amazon or your local Walmart.
Delegate Tasks
You have heard it and read it on all the blogs and social media, so take everyone’s advice. Your bridal party is there to assist you with whatever you need for your day AND celebrate your wedding beside you. One of the greatest ways they can support you is by alleviating your tasks.
I recommend having your maid/matron and best man to be in charge of gathering everyone together throughout the day, a bridesmaid and groomsmen of honor in charge of your detail boxes, another set to be in charge of food and another set in charge of talking to your coordinator, or vendors if you do not have a coordinator. Let your bridesmaids and groomsmen help make your day easy and stress-free. The less you have to worry about the more you are able to be present and take in every moment of your wedding day.
Eat and Hydrate
Again, this sounds silly but trust me you will be so excited for the day you have been dreaming about your whole life and forget to take care of yourself. Make sure to have plenty of snacks and drinks for everyone, or even considering ordering a platter of deli sandwiches or chicken nuggets for everyone to snack on. Many couples opt for a veggie tray and deli sandwiches, but have the food you want.
DON’T FORGET
These items are easy to forget so write them down to ensure you are stress free on your day.
- undergarments and shoes-sticky boobs, boob tape, Spanx, and shapeware. Make sure you wear these to your bridal gown appointments. Also, bring a change of shoes for your reception. Whether you opt for crocs, tennis shoes, or flip flops, your feet will thank you. I promise. 🙂
- your suitcase for your the night of your wedding. Have someone put this in your vehicle so when you leave your reception, it is one less thing to worry about.
- If your venue does not include cleaning/tear down, ask family and friends to help clean up at the end of the night. Many guests and family members will be more than willing to help you in any way they can.
Last but not least….
My biggest suggestion is to hire a wedding planner or day of coordinator at the very least. They are monumental to ensure you are stress free and allows you to be fully present. Every planner/coordinator offers different inclusions but many will coordinate the vendors, set up your decor, execute your design vision with your venue or decorator and make sure everything is perfect for you, your spouse and family are fully present and not stressed handling all the details while enjoying your day.
If you are planning your wedding and are still looking for the perfect photographer for your wedding, congratulations! You found me and I can not wait to get to know you and preserve your wedding day into photos to cherish for a lifetime. While I am based in Columbus Georgia, I am eager to travel worldwide for elopements and weddings. Travel is included in 2 of my collections and I offer discounted pricing to travel for your special day. 🙂
Fill out the contact form below to inquire about your date and let’s get to planning the most epic day of your lives!
