Advice for the Altar | From a Wedding Photographer & Former Bride
1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
When the big day is finally here, you might be overwhelmed — just remember: there is no single hiccup that can possibly bring your big day down. You’ve picked your vendors because you trust their experience and expertise. Let them take it from here!
The best advice I received before my own wedding was — “At the end of day, the only thing that matters is your marriage, NOT the wedding.”
That’s right! You can fuss over EVERY detail but the truth is it doesn’t have to be PERFECT. And believe me, no one expects it to be! If something goes wrong, you are surrounded by people who love you and are willing to help and support you!
Relax and remember this day is to celebrate the unique love you have for one another... the bond you’re celebrating is the most important thing in the end.
2. Be Prepared For Things To Run Late
As a photographer, I’ve seen wedding photos run behind for many different reasons. I’ve actually been to 3 different weddings where a bridesmaid forgot her dress and the night before my very own wedding, my car battery died and left me and my bridesmaids stranded at the nail salon! Anything can happen so always expect the unexpected and go with the flow as much as possible.
The day goes by in a flash and the more breathing room there is within your wedding timeline, the more you can take in every moment and cherish the day.
If you are taking most of your photos before the ceremony, I always recommend at least an hour buffer between photos and the ceremony time just for some extra cushion room if something doesn’t go according to planned. And if everything is running on time, great! You now have a full hour to sit back, relax and await your ceremony
3. Consciously Cherish and Enjoy Your Day
Speaking from experience at my own wedding, the day goes by SO fast. My advice to make the day last:
Be present in how much you love your significant other and how wonderful it is to share this moment with them.
Take a little time for just the two of you after the ceremony to revel in that “just married” feeling. During the reception, the party starts! Let go and celebrate with everyone in attendance - they’re all there to celebrate your love.