Planning a wedding is exciting, but with so many details to juggle, it’s easy to forget a few small (but important!) things. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all—so here are 10 things couples often forget to do before their big day (and how you can avoid last-minute stress!).
1. Eat Breakfast (and Pack Snacks!)
You’ll be so busy getting ready that food might slip your mind. Many couples get lightheaded before the ceremony because they haven’t eaten properly. A good breakfast and some easy snacks (granola bars, fruit, nuts) will keep your energy up.
2. Break in Your Wedding Shoes
Whether it’s heels or dress shoes, wear them around the house to soften them up. No one wants blisters halfway through their wedding day! If you’re wearing heels, bring a comfy backup pair for dancing.
3. Designate a ‘Stuff Keeper’
You’ll need someone responsible for holding onto essentials—your phone, lipstick, vow books, gifts, and anything else you might need throughout the day. This could be a bridesmaid, sibling, or trusted friend.
4. Assign Someone to Gather Cards & Gifts
At the end of the night, someone needs to collect the wedding cards and gifts so they don’t get left behind. Make sure you ask a friend or family member in advance!
5. Plan for Unexpected Weather
Even if you’re having a summer wedding, it’s smart to have a plan B. Bring clear or white umbrellas, think about photo-friendly rain cover options, and if it’s a winter wedding, have hand warmers for outdoor photos.
6. Double-Check Vendor Meals & Seating
Many venues require you to pre-order vendor meals (for your photographer, videographer, planner, etc.).
7. Check the Sunset Time
If you want dreamy golden hour photos, check the exact sunset time and plan accordingly. In summer, golden hour might be late in the evening, but in winter, it could be before your dinner even starts! This is also useful if you are planning sparkers, smokebombs or firworks. let your photogrpaher know in advance and they can give suggestions on your timeline!
8. Bring a Printed List of Group Photos
Family photos can take longer than expected if no one knows where to be. Have a written list of must-have group shots and give it to a bridesmaid, best man, or designated person before the ceremony so they can help gather people quickly (and let your family know in advance so they will know to hang around). Your Photographer also should have a list of group photos in advance, but they won't know who everyone is. Someone to help ralley eveyone can be really helpful!
9. Have an Emergency Kit
A small emergency kit can save the day! Pack:
✔️ Plasters (for blisters)
✔️ Safety pins
✔️ Bobby pins & hair spray
✔️ Tissues (for happy tears!)
✔️ Makeup for touch-ups
✔️ Mints or gum
✔️ A mini sewing kit (just in case)
10. Take a Moment to Breathe & Enjoy your Wedding Day!
The day flies by! Before the ceremony, take a deep breath and soak in the moment. Some couples even schedule 5 minutes alone together right after the ceremony before heading into the madness of the reception.
Bonus - A little research goes a long way. Did you know not all confetti is created equal? My ultimate guide to confetti can be found HERE. Find out how to get the most iconic wedding confetti photos.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day should be filled with joy, not stress! A little planning goes a long way in making sure everything runs smoothly. Want more tips for a relaxed, fun wedding day? Check out my wedding photography blog for more advice!
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