We’re coming up on our 9 year wedding anniversary this Wednesday! Where has the time gone?! Been a while since I planned my own wedding, tried on dresses, looked for venues and made a DIY invitation. When I chat with brides, I always end up talking about my wedding. It was small, hectic and I cut a a lot of corners to save some money. I sometimes think I should’ve done the wedding on the beach at sunset instead….or Disneyland. I think it would be stress free. Some things I feel I should’ve done differently, but it was still pretty memorable and all the moments, even the crazy parts, is still great to talk about now. But for brides planning now, here are my little tips for you:
– RESEARCH
Research photographers! Make sure you like their photos, make sure you like them! You’ll be spending the day with them!
Research makeup artists! I was not used to a lot of makeup and the first words I heard out of Chad after walking down the aisle was ‘woah….that’s a lot of makeup.’ Not really the words I was expecting to hear after crying down the aisle. Make sure they’re all on the same page as you.
Research DJs! Been to weddings where the couple was not happy with the music. If you don’t want rap music, make sure you tell them!
Research them all, get information from past brides.
– HIRE A COORDINATOR
I had no one. Don’t ask your brother for help either. I had a friend help coordinate on the day of so I could save a few bucks, but to be honest, a real coordinator vs. a friend who isn’t a coordinator makes a big difference. I was basically running my own wedding. It gets pretty stressful when you’re putting on my makeup and everyone is asking me to do ….everything.
– ITS YOUR DAY
If you want to get married on the beach, do it! If you want to wear your hair down do it! If you don’t want to invite that aunt that gives you big wet kisses who smells like she took a shower in her Exclamation perfume .….well just be occupied and stay away, she might end up giving you a nice big gift!
– RELAX, LAUGH, HAVE FUN!
Be positive, relax and have fun…yes even though your fake eyelash is coming off. When you’re happy and relaxed, you’ll look better in your photos. It’s all about capturing the both of you during your special day. I had a bride who got upset during her wedding because she didn’t have a coordinator. Sadly, you could really tell by her face in her photos. Not something you really want to remember. Don’t let anything ruin your day.
– BE COMFORTABLE
Get those awesome Manolo Blahniks..…but also bring your flip flops for your reception. You’ll thank me…..unless of course you’re Sarah Jessica Parker and can walk all day in em (and I’d be jealous).
– REMEMBER
Everything you put into your day is a moment. Capture it. Remember it. I even wish I had photos of my guests, with my guests. I have the sign in book but I can’t even remember who some of them are.
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