As I reflect on the AMAZING weddings I was a part of in 2018 I am overwhelmed with the joy. My couples as well as the sweet couples who I got to photograph for other photographers made 2018 a wonderful year. I am so lucky to get to do what I love surrounded by the best couples and wedding professionals in the business. Every wedding day is unique to the couple, as it should be. However today I am sharing 5 tips for all couples to ensure their wedding day is their best day!

Here are FIVE things most brides forget on their wedding day! None of these things are intentional or show stoppers. They just slip through the cracks and it’s understandable with all of the details. So here is a friendly reminder:

1.Bouquets

This is an easy one to forget and most commonly forgotten. The bouquets, boutonnieres, and loose forals should be delivered to where you are getting ready. This allows for the photographer to photograph these details as part of your wedding story. Not to mention florals are great additions to detail photos. I love photographing the rings on the flowers. The loose florals are great for styling details. This small tips allows provides more photos for your album of the details you selected. Plus, you will want your flowers for bridal portraits before the ceremony. Even if you aren’t sharing in a first look you will want the bridesmaids to have their bouquets for the bridal party photos! The same goes for the boutonnieres.

2. Rings

I know every wedding website and blog says the best man should hold onto the rings before the ceremony however that isn’t ideal for pictures. The wedding details include all THREE of the rings, engagement and both wedding bands. I love photographing these at the beginning of the day when I am photographing the shoes, jewelry, dresses, etc. I can photograph the rings during the reception but it can get busy with the festivities. Plus the variety and light at the beginning of the day is more ideal!

3. Stationary Suite

It’s not something that most people think to include in their details photos since they get sent out prior to the wedding day. However the invitation suite sets the tone and theme for the wedding so it is very important. I love to use the invitation to photograph the small details like the rings, ear rings and bracelet. They are a part of your wedding story and help tell the story cohesively. These detail photos are beautiful additions to your heirloom album.

4. Steam & Hang Dresses on Pretty Hangers

Most of the emphasis is on the wedding dress to ensure it is perfect in every way. However the bridesmaids dresses are just as important. They are worn by your tribe, your best girlfriends. You want them to look and feel as good as the yourself! Not to mention they are in your bridal party photos and detail photos. It helps tremendously when the dresses are hung on pretty hangers and steamed. It gives me more time to photograph them versus prepping them. These photos are especially pretty on personalized hangers!

5. Small imperfections

Of all the tips, please remember this one. Small imperfections do not show in your portraits. A little dirt or wrinkle on your dress is ok. I understand wanting the day you’ve planned for months to be perfect but perfect is unachievable and will only disappoint. If you start your day knowing that there will be things that aren’t perfect you will have a more enjoyable day. Don’t stress the imperfections, they actually make your wedding day story that much better! You’re going to look AMAZING and be married to “your person” at the end of the day!

Above all, enjoy the day! It is the day you have been looking forward to and planning for months, maybe years. Slow down and soak it all in. Today is the first day of your marriage. Be sure to stop every now and then and take in what’s happening. You will remember so much more of your day if you