Here's a few of my best tips for planning your dream wedding day:

Start planning early: Giving yourself time and space to create the perfect day is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Being engaged is a really short, but quintessential part on the journey to marriage. Sounds cheesy, but it's true. Looking back at my own engagement, I wish I had enjoyed it more. Planning early will reduce stress & help you feel the joy during what is usually an overwhelming time for people.

Do it your way: the most important thing about your big day is YOU + the ONE YOU LOVE. You’ll never live these moments ever again. Everything else is just background noise. Focus on you two and what you both want & the rest will take care of itself.

Align your budget with your priorities: Weddings are ridiculously expensive. And for good reason! Sometimes it takes funds to plan a dream day, or it doesn't have to. My suggestion is to spend the money on the things that truly matter to you & let go of the rest. It all goes back to the point I made above - do it your way! You will thank yourself later for spending money on things you personally care about, and not on the things that you don't.

Choose a venue: Select a venue that fits your style and budget, and that can accommodate all of your guests. Consider factors such as the location, size, and capacity, as well as the availability of parking and accommodations for out-of-town guests.

Select trustworthy vendors: Your vendors can become some of your very best friends & assets during a crazy time in your life. They have been through it many times with many couples & choosing people that are reliable and on your team is a way to set your day up for success. Be sure to read reviews and do your research. I think my very best tip is to make sure not to hire someone just for a deal, those client relationships usually are a struggle and can create real headaches for you on your wedding day. You could consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to help you manage the details and ensure that everything goes smoothly on the day of the wedding, but I would only recommend that if you are having a gigantic wedding.

Be kind to your helpers: The people around you who make your day happen are the kindest ever. Especially your family & friends. They aren't getting paid - they are there because there love you, so treat that service with the respect it deserves. I'm not saying give up the things you want to be nice to them, but be aware of the things you are asking them to do & show them gratitude and kindness. Your wedding day will be more enjoyable if everyone can feel the love!

Create a timeline: Create a detailed timeline for your wedding, and tell your vendors! It doesn't have to be 100% spot on during the day, but by setting up a solid game plan you can be prepared for anything unexpected and feel relieved that the people around you have your back. I would recommend giving yourself space and breaks! Things on a wedding day usually move a little slower than you think and this helps things flow easier and reduces stress. It also will help you be present and enjoy full all the happy things you've got planned.

Enjoy yourself: Above all, remember to enjoy yourself and have fun on your wedding day. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and it should be a celebration of your love and commitment. Take some time to relax and savor the moment, eat the beautiful food you've ordered and don't panic if things don't go perfectly. You'll wanna look back at your day with joy, not fear.

The value of a well planned day is priceless because it allows for carefree memory making.

I have been a wedding vendor for over 7 years. At this point, the ins and outs of planning dream weddings are second nature to me. It's knowledge that I share freely with anyone that asks, especially my clients. Once they book with me, I send them a tailored wedding planning guide that outlines the process for them from start to finish. It's a guide that I have poured my heart and soul into because as a photographer, I believe it's my responsibility to help my client's have the very best day they possibly can. They deserve most seamless, simple and, effortless dream day, and anything I can do to contribute to that I will.

wedding planning tips