Relaxed Wedding Ideas

Who: Christine + Katie

What: Fall Wedding

Where: The Pavilion at Grace, Providence RI

When: November 2023

When it comes to planning a wedding, one insight most newly engaged couples share with me is their sheer shock at what's entailed. At first glance, weddings may seem like larger versions of the delightful summer celebrations you have with your loved ones. But let me tell you, they are so much more! Weddings are these colossal events, brimming with countless details and moving parts. It's no wonder it's easy to feel overwhelmed and bewildered. But fear not, dear couple! You deserve a wedding day filled with joy, freedom, and cherished memories for years to come. And guess what? I've got your back! Let me share some fantastic tips to ensure you relax and embrace your big day stress-free! Are you ready? Let's dive in!

Hire a professional wedding planner or coordinator:

Why not hire a professional wedding planner or coordinator? Trust me, it's worth it! Leave the nitty-gritty details to a pro who will work their magic to ensure everything runs like a dream. From coordinating your wedding party to wrangling vendors, they've got you covered so that you can kick back, relax, and fully soak in every moment of your special day. Because let's be honest, on the big day, everyone will want a piece of your attention. It's such a relief to simply point them in the direction of your amazing coordinator who can handle all their inquiries. Delegate the stress, embrace the joy!

Choose vendors you love and trust:

Bring your wedding vision to life by enlisting vendors who not only understand but surpass your expectations. When you find that special photographer or florist who truly gets you, don't hesitate to secure their services immediately. Trust your instincts and conduct thorough research to find the perfect match. Consider this: there are only 52 weekends in a year, and most vendors are available for only 30-40 of them. So don't waste any time in snagging your ideal person.

Add buffer time into your schedule: Make sure to add buffer time into your schedule and take your time with your wedding day! It's your special day, so give yourself extra time for getting ready, capturing the perfect group photos, and handling unexpected events. Weddings are full of surprises, so it's always a good idea to have some wiggle room in your timetable to keep everything on track. By building in this buffer time, you'll have more time to enjoy every little moment and everything you've planned for your special day. As a wedding photographer, I highly recommend considering at least 8 hours of coverage on your wedding day. And if you want the ultimate experience, go for the cherry on top and opt for 10 hours of coverage. It's the perfect finishing touch to make your day truly unforgettable.

Consider a first look:

I absolutely LOVE first looks! Seriously, I can't get enough of them. I talk about them all the time, like right here and over here, oh and don't forget right here too! Let me tell you, having that special moment with your partner before the ceremony is an absolute game-changer. It's like a magic elixir that instantly eases those pre-wedding jitters. Not only does it calm your nerves, but it also prepares you to confidently say those two beautiful words: "I do." But wait, there's more! A first look also makes total sense from a practical standpoint. You get all those fabulous formal portraits done and dusted early, leaving you with more quality time to mingle and celebrate with your beloved wedding guests. I mean, think about it - you actually get to fully enjoy your own cocktail hour! How amazing is that? Trust me, a first look is an experience you won't want to miss out on!

Keep everyone informed:

Don't be overwhelmed by questions! Instead, provide your guests with all the information they need. A wedding website is a fantastic tool to share directions, reception details, and more. You can even assign someone as a designated point-person for any additional questions. This way, you can fully concentrate on preparing for your big day and make it truly special!

Go with the flow:

Embrace imperfections and accept that something might not go according to plan.
Don't sweat the small stuff, and enjoy each moment as it comes.
Remember, your wedding day is all about celebrating the love you and your partner share.