Your wedding day is coming… and it’s going to be unforgettable! But in between choosing the perfect dress, finalizing your seating chart, and practicing your vows, there are a few golden tips every bride should know to make the day smoother, more emotional, and beautifully memorable, both in real life and in photos.
So grab a coffee (or champagne!), and let’s go through the essentials for making your big day a magical experience.
1. Be present - soak in every second
This day flies by. Between hair and makeup, hugs and photos, it’s easy to feel swept up in a whirlwind. But if you pause every now and then to breathe, look around, and absorb the love that surrounds you… it will stay with you forever. Presence is powerful, and trust me, it shows in every photo.
2. During the first dance… connect with your partner (and the camera too!)
One of the most emotional parts of the night is your first dance. Don’t be shy to lock eyes, laugh together, whisper something sweet. And once in a while, give a subtle look toward the camera. A quick glance filled with love can turn into a timeless photograph of your joy, connection, and romance.
3. During the ceremony, make eye contact with your guests
Looking into your partner’s eyes during the vows is magical, but don’t forget to connect with your loved ones too. A quick glance toward your parents, your friends, or that aunt who flew across the world to be there, these moments of eye contact create a shared emotional connection… and they make for beautiful, heartfelt photos.
4. Plan ahead… and then go with the flow
A well-organized timeline is key, but don’t let unexpected things throw you off. Maybe the ceremony starts 10 minutes late, or your hair takes a little longer. It’s okay! Some of the most special memories are born from unplanned moments. Rain? Let’s dance under it. Embrace the beauty of imperfection.
5. Have an emergency kit — and don’t forget the foundation!
Every bride needs a little bridal survival kit. Include tissues, safety pins, lip gloss, bobby pins, deodorant, a mini sewing kit, band-aids, and foundation or concealer for quick touch-ups in case your makeup smudges from happy tears (and there will be tears!). Bonus: keep blotting paper to reduce shine.
Also, choose a trusted friend or your maid of honor to be your go-to helper. Someone who can zip your dress, keep an eye on the bouquet, and be your calm during any chaos.
6. Eat. Hydrate. Breathe.
Yes, even when you’re nervous! You need energy to smile, dance, laugh and soak in the day. So have a light meal before the ceremony and sip water throughout the day. It helps with your mood, your skin, and your stamina.
7. Enjoy the “getting ready” like a celebration
The bridal prep is part of the magic, so make it special! Choose a space with great natural light, put on your favorite playlist, and let the joy begin.
Now here’s a key tip: have all your details ready for photos. That includes:
- Both wedding bands
- Your engagement ring
- Your bouquet
- Your shoes
- Invitation suite (if you have it)
- Perfume bottle
- Special jewelry or family heirlooms
- Any meaningful objects (love letters, photos, charms)
This allows us to beautifully document those personal touches that make your day truly yours.
8. Trust your vendors, they’ve got you
You’ve chosen your team for a reason. Now is the time to trust them. Whether it’s your photographer, makeup artist, planner, or florist, they’re there to take care of you, guide you, and make everything easier. Let go and enjoy the ride.
9. Relax your jaw and shoulders for natural photos
Sometimes nerves make us stiff, and that shows! Remember to gently relax your jaw, drop your shoulders, and smile with your eyes. A trick? Think of something that makes you giggle. It creates an effortless, radiant expression that looks amazing on camera.
10. Let go… and truly enjoy YOUR day
This is your moment. Forget expectations. Dance like crazy, hug tight, cry happy tears, laugh out loud. The memories you’ll keep forever are not the ones that were planned, but the ones you lived with your heart wide open.
One last little secret from me to you:
When you’re present, when you look into your partner’s eyes, when you sneak a glance at your best friend during the ceremony, or wipe away a tear with a big smile… those are the real moments. And I’ll be there to capture them, beautifully, honestly, and with so much love.
