OH MY GOSH how freaking stoked are you right now! You met your dream human, the LOVE OF YOUR LIFE, and fell in love and now you are planning your WEDDING! (ya know that thing you’ve been dreaming of for years and probably have lots of pinterest boards from 2013 dedicated to it- or maybe that’s just me idk…)

But with all the planning and excitement and joy comes so many other not so fun things- like maybe confusion or uncertainty or stress. There is so much that needs to be done, so many decisions to be made, so much falling on your plate right now. And look I get it and I hear you. So whether you are a current bride or groom planning your own wedding, or a friend doing some research for your bestie this is the article for you. I have been to a lot of weddings (and was actively involved in the planning process for the majority of them) and have seen almost everything under the sun in terms of a wedding day- so don’t worry I got you. These are all my tips for a smooth pain-free wedding day that gives you the freedom to focus on what matters most- you and your lover gettin’ hitched and celebrating with those who matter most!

TIP 1 HAVE A COORDINATOR 

Whether this be a day of coordinator that comes with your venue, a friend who can step up and make sure the day runs smoothly, a month of coordinator, or you hire someone who helps you throughout every step of the planning. This is going to ensure that your day runs smoothly and stays on schedule. They are going to take care of the little details and put out whatever fires come up (figuratively speaking of course) that way you can focus on getting married!

TIP 3 SET A BUDGET 

EDITED TO ADD- a realistic budget! Before you even start booking vendors or going to pinterest for some sick inspo photos. Sit down and discuss together what you guys can spend on your wedding. Weddings can get REAL expensive REAL quick. Decide what your priorities are (I usually recommend choosing three) and make sure those are covered first. Maybe that’s your photographer, venue, and dress. OR your videographer, caterer, and photographer. Then start going through and choosing the rest of your vendors. Knowing what your budget is and what your priorities are will make the planning process go 1000x smoother I promise. 

TIP 4 CUSHION YOUR TIMELINE 

One thing I commonly see with wedding days is trying to fit too much into too little time and the whole day ends up being scheduled by the minute with little to no room for when something goes wrong. And yes, something will happen- it always does, but it’s okay because if you cushion your timeline everything will still work out perfectly! Cushioning your timeline can be as simple as scheduling forty-five minutes instead of thirty. This will ensure that if something earlier in the day goes over the next events in your schedule wont be off. If you have any timeline specific questions don’t hesitate to reach out to your photographer or coordinator, they will both be amazing resources who can help you figure out the best place to add some extra time!

TIP 5 STAY HYDRATED 

I know that there are a million and one things you will have to do on your wedding day. You have to get ready, take lots of pretty photos, say hi to friends and family, get married, dance the night away, and more. But the most important one that people forget is STAY HYDRATED and this started in the days leading up to your wedding. Staying happy and hydrated is going to make sure that your skin looks fresh, helps prevent fatigue, and will help clear any toxins from your system. If you’re worried about having to go to the bathroom every 5 minutes try sipping water throughout the day instead of chugging it at once, or adding electrolytes (like Liquid IV or LMNT) to your water bottle. 

TIP 6 SET TIME ASIDE FOR BE TOGETHER 

Saving my best tip for last, set aside some time to be with your partner! YA’LL JUST GOT FREAKING MARRIED! Sneak off for a few minutes to celebrate that and be alone together. You just promised forever to someone- soak it in without an audience. You will have plenty of time to celebrate with your guests but you are only newly weds once. Make sure this is actually scheduled into your timeline! It can be as simple as sneaking off for five minutes for a drink and a chat, or maybe a longer time where the two of you can dream together. 

I hope this helps you in your wedding planning journey! I want you to know that I totally believe in you and I am SO STOKED for you and your partner to begin your lives together! 

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