Weddings are beautiful, romantic and fun, but let's face it, they can also be stressful. There are high expectations and emotions to contend with and the day itself can get pretty hectic. After waiting so long to say your "I Do's", you don't want anything to spoil it. Here are some tips to prevent issues and make the most of your day.
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Plan Ahead
So much wedding day stress can be avoided by being prepared and organized. Hiring a wedding planner is a great way to stay on track. Try not to leave too much until the last minute. Crossing items off your to-do list early will allow you to slow down a bit on the week of your wedding and leave you feeling more relaxed and confident on the big day. Be sure to lay out everything you'll need the night before so you won't have to scramble in the morning. The simplest preparations can make all the difference.
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| Lauren and Peter's Wedding Photo courtesy of Jennifer Childress Photography |
Get a Good Night's Sleep
This is always a challenge for some, with excitement and nervousness running high, but try your best to get as much beauty sleep as possible. You'll wake up refreshed and ready to go and that's important. No one wants to look or feel tired on their wedding day.
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| Jennifer and Eddy's Wedding Photo courtesy of Justin & Mary Photography |
Find the Right Setting
Whether it's a hotel suite or your childhood bedroom, find somewhere perfect to get ready. Play your favorite music, light some candles- whatever makes you happy. Make sure the space is large enough for your bridal party to fit comfortably and keep it free from clutter since it will be featured in a number of your photos.
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| Tracey and Andy's Wedding Photo courtesy of 217 Photography |
Take Time to Unwind
On the morning of your wedding it's always a good idea to take a little time for yourself to unwind. Do whatever works for you, whether it's reading a book, journaling, or taking part in some kind of physical activity. Go for a short walk or run or try some yoga. Just don't overexert yourself. Focusing your mind and body on something else for a while is a good distraction and will mentally prepare you for the day ahead.
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| Angela and Sean's Wedding Photo courtesy of 217 Photography |
Surround Yourself with Good People
The people you spend time with on your wedding day can have a huge impact on your mood. Don't choose members of your bridal party out of a sense of obligation. Choose them because they are wonderful people who will support you and make the day even more special. Avoid those that cause drama at all costs.
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| Leslie and Aaron's Wedding Photo courtesy of mkPhoto |
Keep Kids Entertained
If you have children in your wedding party or even just attending your reception, consider hiring a babysitter to keep an eye on them and intervene when they are overtired or cranky. You can also provide simple games and activities to keep them occupied. Both of these options will limit disruptions throughout your day and keep everyone happy.
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| Emily and Bryan's Wedding Photo courtesy of Joanne Beecham Photography |
Delegate
Don't be afraid to delegate responsibilities. Give some of your bridesmaids key duties to lighten your load. Have someone be the point person for guests to call when they have questions or get lost. Ask a person who knows your family and friends to help gather them during group photos in order to save time. Don't forget to put someone in charge of taking your gifts and decorations home. It doesn't make you a bridezilla to ask for a little assistance here and there.
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| Christina and Frankie's Wedding Photo courtesy of mkPhoto |
Leave Extra Time
There's a lot to accomplish on your wedding day from hair and makeup to photos and formalities. It's important to have a detailed timeline to map out what happens when. Be sure to pad as much as possible so that if something runs longer than expected, you'll be able to make up the time later. Trust me, no one has ever said they had too much time on their wedding day. Share the timeline with all of your vendors, wedding party, and VIPs so that everyone is on the same page.
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| Jenny and Steve's Wedding Photo courtesy of Joy Moody Photography |
Find the Perfect Fit
Everyone wants to look their best on their wedding day, but don't completely sacrifice comfort for beauty. When shopping for a dress, always keep your wedding season in mind. A heavy brocade dress may be stunning, but it's not much fun during a summer heat wave. When you find one, make sure you get it fitted properly. You won't spend your wedding day standing still in front of a full length mirror, so don't forget to walk, sit, and twirl during your fitting. This will reduce the risk of wardrobe malfunctions during your first dance or discomfort while you sit at your sweetheart table. Remember to break in your shoes and scuff up the soles a bit so they're not slippery. Bring a pair of flip flops or ballet flats to change into during the reception. Your feet will thank you at the end of the night.
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| Lauren and Jerad's Wedding Photo courtesy of Jennifer Childress Photography |
Keep Essentials Handy
Have key items stashed in a clutch or nearby. Tissues for happy tears or blotting are always a good idea. Buy sample sizes of makeup like your lip gloss and have someone keep an eye on when it needs to be touched up. This way you'll be photo-ready throughout the day. Create an emergency kit or use your wedding planner's. Fill it with everything from Band-Aids and Advil to Stain Removers and Super Glue. With the right supplies on hand, minor mishaps won't even faze you.
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| Jill and Paul's Wedding Photo courtesy of Cindy Guessford Photography |
Eat Something
Don't stuff yourself with greasy, heavy food, but be sure to eat something. Wedding days are long and you'll need to keep your energy up. If at all possible, try to sit down and enjoy your dinner at the reception, even if it's just a few bites. If not, ask for a doggie bag to take with you when you head out, because odds are you'll be starving by the time you get home.
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| Sarah and Dan's Wedding Photo courtesy of Vision13 |
Don't Drink Too Much
Champagne toasts or mimosa while getting ready are a great way to settle your nerves or celebrate, but don't overdo it. Enjoy yourself, but keep in mind that this is a big day. You've waited and planned for it for a long time and you'll want to remember every moment.
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| Kate and Andrew's Wedding Photo courtesy of Hoffer Photography |
Spend Some Time Alone Together
Whether it's a first look or a few private moments during the reception, try to sneak away with your groom at some point. You'll be pulled in a million different directions on your wedding day. A little time alone will keep the butterflies away and help you remember what's really important.
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| Shante and Jason's Wedding Phoro courtesy of Sean Marshall Lin |
Trust Your Pros
You hired professionals for a reason. They know what they're doing and they've done it many times before. Don't micromanage their every move. Let them take care of you and solve any issues that arise. When you trust your vendors to do their job, you get to be a guest at your own wedding, and that's how it should be.
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| Devon and John's Wedding Photo courtesy of Michael's Photography |
Be Flexible
No matter how thoroughly you've planned, there are still certain things that are out of your control. At some point, you just have to let go and have fun. A good deal of your wedding's success lies in your attitude. So if it rains, have fun with it. If unexpected guests show up, let your planner and caterer handle it. Don't sweat the small stuff and don't let it ruin your day. Just kick back, relax, and enjoy every second.
-Laura
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