Over the course of my 9 years of shooting weddings, plus dealing with my own, I’ve learned a thing or two about what can create a stressful situation for a bride. Nobody wants to be stressed out on their wedding day, so here are 5 useful tips that can help make your day more relaxed!

1. Do a “1st Look” (See each other before the ceremony)

I had to put this one first. This is my number one because there are multiple benefits. First it will help calm your nerves. Second, your hair & makeup will be fresh and it will look AH-Mazing in your photos! Lastly, it will help with your photo timeline so that you don’t feel rushed after your ceremony. Giving yourself ample time before the ceremony for your couples portraits & even some (or ALL!)  family formals is SUPER beneficial.

2. Limit the number of attendants in your bridal party to 10 or under (including you & your fiance).

I have seen it so many times. Hair & makeup run late due to the number of bridesmaids. Because hair & makeup run late, the bride is late getting into her dress. Because the bride is late getting into her dress, she starts getting antsy & her nerves start to get the best of her. When there are too many people in the room during getting ready time, sometimes it starts to get overwhelming. Not to mention trying to rally up large groups for bridal party photos can get dicey… Amanda has to go to the bathroom, Dan has had a little too much to drink already, and where’s John???… all while eating into your portrait time. As with all areas of life… sometimes Less is More!

3. Enjoy cocktail hour!

This one ties in with a first look & doing your family formals before the ceremony. I love it when my couples want to go to cocktail hour! They get to mingle with their guests, have drinks, food, & enjoy themselves!! That’s what the day is all about right? Enjoying & celebrating with your family & friends!

4. Do not sweat the small stuff.

I know it’s easier said than done, but try not to sweat the small stuff. Things like bad weather, the wrong flowers, dirtying your dress, and family not showing up for photos at the right time can be upsetting, but if you learn to roll with the punches, you’ll enjoy your day SO much more. All these little things are what makes your day special, unique, a story to tell! Embrace the good AND the not so good! These little things won’t be so important 5 years from now.

5. Have a fantastic team of wedding vendors that can help you along the way!

Being able to rely on your wedding vendors’ expertise is key. They’ve been involved with MANY weddings. Use that to your advantage!! A fun & experienced wedding photographer (such as myself! Heyyyy!)  will help organize your formal list & timeline ahead of time, so that you don’t have to worry about a thing the day of your wedding. Organization ahead of time is SO important. Having a plan is SO important. Having someone by your side the entire day who has the experience to handle all sorts of situations can be an instant load off of your shoulders. Plans don’t always go as planned, but pre-wedding organization can definitely help things run a little smoother. Smooth = stress free!

I hope these little tid bits can help you to have a more relaxed wedding day!! Happy Planning!

Want more information about my wedding photography services??

Get my Wedding Welcome Guide HERE! And then CONTACT ME or email at alison@alisonmariephotography.com to set up your consultation!