If you're like most couples, you've been dreaming about your wedding day for as long as you can remember. You've visualized yourself saying yes to the dress, walking down the aisle toward the love of your life, and dancing the night away with your guests. You have a Pinterest board titled, "Dream Wedding" that you started years before you even got engaged. Sound about right?
Oftentimes, couples get so caught up in the planning of their wedding that they forget to take a step back and enjoy it while it's happening. Sadly, this is far too common but it doesn't have to be this way! Having a stress-free and present wedding day is possible, it just takes a little extra preparation.
Here are 5 ways to be more present on your wedding day, from a wedding photographer's perspective–
1. Hire a Wedding Planner or Day Of Coordinator
Most couples have never planned a wedding before! It's their first time organizing an event of this size and with that comes a lot of unknowns. If it's within budget, a wedding planner serves as an experienced guide to help you navigate the wedding world in a way that's easy to digest. They walk you through your options, help you stay on budget, create a detailed plan, and work with each vendor to successfully execute your vision. If a planner is not within your budget or you already have a pretty good idea of the vendors you want to use and prefer to do your own planning, something even more valuable for this instance is a 'Day Of Coordinator'! A day of coordinator will help make sure all the little details of your day are perfect from setup to tear down, so you can truly relax and enjoy your day knowing any last minute changes or mishaps are being handled by your trusted coordinator.
2. Leave Extra Room In Your Wedding Day Timeline- Plan For the Little Things!
The last thing you want to feel on your wedding day is rushed. Adding a 10-15 minute buffer between events allows you to relax, take a breath and soak it all in, freshen up or eat a much-needed snack, etc. You're able to enjoy yourselves more fully as we move from one thing to the next with peace of mind knowing that there's time to spare.
3. Ditch Your Phone
There is no reason to have your phone with you on your wedding day, everyone you love is with you! Leave your phone with a family member/bridesmaid in case of emergency and live this ONE day completely and undoubtedly present. Social media, text messages, and phone calls all can wait. Your photographer and videographer are there to capture the day so all you have to do is live in the moment!
4. Delegate Tasks
Your only job on your wedding day is to show up and enjoy yourself. Your vendors and bridal parties are there to help if there are small or miscellaneous tasks to be completed! Don't feel bad asking, even if its just a quick steam of your dress, grabbing your jewelry, or pouring you a drink! People love to feel needed so don't be afraid to give your bridal party and families tasks that will ultimately help make your day a breeze.
5. Remember What the Day Is All About
No wedding day runs perfectly according to plan. Inevitably, things are going to come up, whether it's a stain on your groom's white shirt, a snag in your veil, or a little rain. Embrace the unexpected! These are the moments that make memories. At the end of the day, you are marrying the love of your life surrounded by your favorite people and that's all that truly matters.
For more inspo, check out this blog on 6 wedding day tips for brides!
Ready to plan your perfect day?
