For this blog post, I’ve gathered lots of wedding planning advice from couples I’ve photographed to share with you.
I’ve learned that planning a wedding can be exciting, overwhelming, joyful and occasionally ridiculous!! Hope this helps you plan your own wedding day.
DELEGATE
Planning becomes easier when you don’t do it alone. Many couples found it helpful to give tasks to friends and family, especially those keen to be involved. Delegating early prevents overwhelm and also makes your people feel part of your day. Also, do this for the day itself too – give responsibility to people you trust so you can focus on enjoying the celebration.
BUDGET EXPECTATIONS
Weddings can be expensive, so it helps to decide where you want to invest and where you’re happy to save. Several couples said they wished they hadn’t spent so much on things like favours, huge cakes or complicated décor. If a detail won’t change your experience of the day, you probably don’t need to spend big on it.
PLAN TOGETHER
Working together makes the entire process smoother. Discuss ideas before booking viewings or tastings, and check in with each other before locking in decisions. Sometimes a disagreement simply means you haven’t found the right supplier yet.
DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF
OMG, it’s easy to fall down a Pinterest hole, but nearly every couple admitted that their décor looked different on the day, and they honestly didn’t mind. Guests remember the atmosphere, not the shade of your napkins.
CHOOSING SUPPLIERS
Recommendations from friends and family are always helpful. Beyond that, research suppliers whose style matches your vision. Meet them, ask questions and trust your instincts. If someone doesn’t make you feel at ease from the start, move on.
SKIP TRADITION (IF YOU WANT)
This is huge for me and many couples shared so many examples of choosing their own path: colourful outfits, mixed-gender bridal parties, non-traditional ceremonies, or completely rewriting the script. Your wedding, your way!
WHEN THINGS DON’T GO TO PLAN
This was the advice I got given just before my wedding day and I’m passing it onto you. Something will ALWAYS go not to plan… and when it happens, just roll with it.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT
The one thing every couple told me was – it goes fast! You’ve probably heard that from others you know too. Schedule a couple of moments through out the day to take it all it. When I photograph a weddings I collaborate with the couple to have two short portrait sessions, this is to make fantastic photos, but more importantly it’s for them to have a bit of time together to reflect on the day.
I hope this wedding planning advice gives you reassurance, clarity and a little extra excitement as you plan your day. If you’ve only just got engaged, you may want to start here: WEDDING PLANNING. WHERE TO START WHEN YOU’VE JUST GOT ENGAGED.