Lightbox Photography & Sunway Charters
Hi everyone!
We recently asked brides if they experienced anything surprising during their wedding day and we received a BUNCH of responses! We consolidated their answers into 15 unexpected things that happened during their day. If you or someone you know is currently wedding planning, these might be some helpful tidbits to take with you during your process.
1. There Will Most Likely be Some Minor Delays
Between traveling guests and even restroom trips, there are bound to be some minor delays throughout your day. On wedding days, we see an average 15 minute delay to the day's events. The good news is: even if you run behind, everything is on YOUR schedule so you're actually not behind at all. Throughout the day, we update you on what's happening. Brides make changes to their wedding day on the day ALL the time - so just relax! If you change your mind about the bouquet toss, no worries. This day is all about celebrating your love, so don't stress if you want to make some minor changes. Just be prepared for things to run a few minutes behind, but enjoy those minutes while you can because you'll never get them back!
2. Schedule Speeches Earlier in the Evening
A few brides testified to what a HUGE hit the open bar was at their wedding. Before everyone starts having too much fun, it might be a good idea to schedule speeches for early on in the evening. This can make for a great segue into dinner and dancing before everyone goes up for their 3rd or 4th drink.
3. Deliver Cake so Everyone has a Slice
One bride wished she had planned to have the cake announced by the DJ or perhaps even delivered to tables (perfect if you're doing a plated dinner). Plan on announcing it somehow to ensure everyone (even mom!) has the chance to enjoy a delicious piece of cake.
Ryan Barnett Photography & Publix
4. Allot Enough Time for a Receiving Line
After the ceremony, some couples may wish to do a receiving line for their guests. This is a sweet tradition that allows the newlyweds (and family) to chat with guests and thank them for coming. Receiving lines are especially apparent if you have a separate guest list for your ceremony and reception. If you're doing a receiving line, be sure to allot enough time for all of your guests as this can often go over the expected amount of time and can take away from your dinner and dancing.
5. The Night Will Fly By
Throughout all of your planning, keep in mind that everything will fly by! The day will be over before you know it, so make sure you take deep breaths and enjoy every minute while you can. Prepare enough time for all of your main events, but don't get wrapped up in the timeline too much.
6. Stock up on Your Favorites if You're Providing Alcohol
If you plan on providing beer and wine to cut costs, be sure to stock up on your favorites so you don't run out! We are more than willing to run out and pickup whatever you need during the day, but it's better to prevent this in the first place so your guests don't have to wait.
7. Keep Lipstick and Necessities Nearby with MOH or Bridesmaid
I hope we're not the first to tell you this, but you will be in pictures ALL. NIGHT. LONG. The key is to relax, have fun, and remember that these are keepsake photos you will look back on forever from your beautiful day. In order to stay fresh throughout the day, it might be a good idea to keep a little bag of necessities with your Maid of Honor or bridesmaid throughout the day. Whenever you need a little lipstick or deodorant refresh, you will have it right there for photos and so you look (and feel!) your best all night long.
Yah Photography, Florals by Lily Greenthumb, Makeup by Norelle B
8. Be Present and Make the Wedding Longer
Many brides have said they wished they made the day longer because it does fly by so fast. No matter how long your day is, your heart will be so full by the end! Be sure to soak in every moment and appreciate it for what it is because it only happens once. Be present during your day and let us take care of the rest!
9. Plan Music Playlists Earlier
Some brides have told us during their day (and afterwards) that they wish the music had been different and that they spent more time on it. The music and DJ you choose can definitely make or break your dancing and flow of the evening, so be sure to dedicate time in advance to your playlists. Work with your DJ to create a "must-have" list, a "do not play" list and even an extra playlist in case it goes over.
10. Hire a Videographer
I have lost count of how many couples have said they wish they had accommodated room in the budget for a videographer. Videographers are considered an "extra" sometimes because they're not a cost that couples typically include in their original budget. There are so many brides who LOVE their wedding day, but wish there was some footage to watch back after it's all said and done. Videographers capture large-scale shots, but also small details that you don't want to forget. It's like a professional home movie that you'll want to keep looped on your tv at all times.
11. Consider a Father-Daughter First Look
Many brides love to have a first look or even first touch with their groom, in order to allot extra time for photos and calm any wedding day nerves. If you're considering this, you may also consider doing a father-daughter first look. This isn't a very traditional "event," but it's becoming more and more popular. You could even save your first look with your groom for the aisle and do a big reveal with your dad for a super sentimental moment. The beauty of it is that it's all up to you! You can decide exactly what you want (or don't want) and we will make it happen.
Keith & Lakyn Photography
12. Practice First Dance in Advance
To prevent any first dance slip-ups, plan to have a few dance lessons with your groom beforehand. You can even plan some cute choreography or a song-change up halfway through - totally up to you! Even if you only practice one time before the wedding, this will help both of you feel more comfortable and confident going into the first dance.
13. Wear a Cute Outfit for Getting Ready Pictures
During the morning of getting ready, we've seen many brides coordinate cute pj's or robes with their bridesmaids. Your photographer will definitely take some getting ready shots, so make sure you consider what you'll be wearing. Brides might overlook this detail, especially with traveling, so pack an outfit ahead of time that you want to wear for the morning of.
14. Prepare Backup Plan for Transportation
Out of all the wedding day snafus, transportation issues are definitely one of the most common. Sometimes the transportation you have planned might break down or delay, so it's important to have a backup plan. Even if that means downloading the Uber app on your phone just in case, or checking with the transportation rental company to make sure they can provide another vehicle if something goes wrong - plan ahead of time to prevent stress on your day.
15. Plan for Cocktail Hour Photos
Cocktail hour is quite underrated in our opinions - after all, this is an important part of your day! It allows you extra time to take photos and transition into the reception, but also allows time for family and friends to reconnect or meet one another for the first time. If you want photos of your guests mingling or certain cocktail hour details, make sure to communicate this to your photographer.
Hopefully these instances have helped ease your anxiety going into your day! We'd love to hear what stage of planning you're in, even if you're just taking notes for the future - comment below and let us know :)