5 Tips to Make Your Wedding Day Stress Free

A photographer’s guide to soaking in every second of your “best day ever”

Let’s be honest, wedding days are one of the most anticipated days of your life, but they’re also full of moving parts, emotions, and (sometimes) a few curveballs. As someone who’s been behind the lens for countless “I dos,” and recently just got married myself… I’ve learned a few key things that can turn a potentially stressful day into one that feels joyful, smooth, and completely YOU.

Here are my top 5 tips for making your wedding day as stress free and enjoyable as possible! So you can truly soak in every beautiful moment.

1. Trust Your Timeline (and Build in Breathing Room)

Your timeline is more than just a schedule! It's what gives your day structure, flow, and peace of mind. When you build in extra time for things like hair & makeup, family portraits, or transitioning between locations, you’re creating margin for real moments to unfold naturally… and giving yourself room to breathe.

Photographer Tip: I always send my couples a customized timeline to help map out the day. It includes buffer time for travel, unexpected delays, or spontaneous hugs from grandma  because those are the moments you don’t want to rush! So if we don’t follow the timeline down to the exact minute don’t stress about it!! (I never expect to anyways and that's okay!)

2. Prep a “Detail Box” for Your Photographer

Before I arrive or the day/week before, gather all your meaningful little things. Anything from your invitation suite, rings, jewelry, perfume, shoes, vow books, and anything sentimental (maybe grandma’s veil?). Put them in a cute box or bag and have it waiting in your getting ready space.

Why it helps: It saves time, reduces questions, and allows me to dive right into photographing your details while you sip your coffee and take it all in. Plus, flat lays with all your special touches? Always a win.

3. Assign a “Go To” Person for Questions

On your wedding day, you shouldn’t be the one answering texts about parking or helping Aunt Linda find the bathroom. That’s what your wedding planner (or trusted point person) is for!

Who to choose: Pick a bridesmaid, sibling, or friend who knows your vision and can help coordinate logistics with vendors, guests, or even gather people for family photos. It keeps you focused on getting married, not managing the schedule.

4. Do a First Look (If You Want One!)

First looks are one of the best ways to carve out calm, intentional time together before the whirlwind begins. Whether it’s with your partner, your dad, your bridesmaids, these moments allow for real connection and real emotions, without the pressure of a crowd watching.

Bonus: Doing a first look often means we can knock out most of your portraits early  so after the ceremony, you’re free to join cocktail hour and actually enjoy your party!

5. Let Go, Be Present, and Just… Feel It

This one’s less of a “tip” and more of a gentle reminder: Something might run behind. Your flowers might be a shade off. Your hair might not curl the way you envisioned. But you know what? You’re marrying your person. And that’s the only thing that truly matters.

Let the rest go. Laugh at the hiccups. Hug your people tight. Be fully in the moment because it really does go by fast!  And I’ll be there capturing every tear, twirl, and toast so you can relive it all for years to come.

Final Thoughts

You’ve poured your heart into this day. You deserve to enjoy every second of it. With a little preparation and a lot of presence, your wedding can feel like the relaxed, joy filled celebration you’ve always dreamed of.

If you're looking for a wedding photographer who’s all about calming your nerves, keeping things fun, and capturing every sweet detail… I’d love to be part of your day.

Let’s chat about your wedding! Fill out the wedding contact form to check your date, ask any questions, or just talk through your vision. I’m here to make it all feel easy.

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