As a wedding photographer with over 10 years of experience, I’m often asked for my top tips on how to ensure couples get the best from their big day. In addition to my professional insight, I also got married myself in 2021. So, from both a photographer’s and a bride’s perspective, here are my essential tips for a smooth and stress-free wedding day, starting right from the beginning;

1. Get a Good Night’s Sleep! I know it’s exciting, and you’ll feel like a little kid on Christmas Eve, and you may struggle to get to sleep the evening before. But do try and do everything you can to ensure you get a good nights sleep the night before the big day. A well rested bride and groom is a happy one!

2. Don’t miss your breakfast! On the big day, it’s easy to forget to eat in the midst of all the chaos. But trust me—you don’t want to feel faint or distracted because you skipped breakfast. I completely understand you have so much on your mind that you may not have thought about breakfast! Depending on where you are getting ready, you could consider outsourcing the job to someone in your bridal party to sort out. (I gave this job to my brother who showed up with the goods and put on a great spread of pastries and fruit for all of the bridal party along with the MUA, Photographer and Videographer to enjoy!)

3. Prep your outfits! Avoid any last minute stress- If you have suits, or dresses that need steaming. Be sure to do this the night before the big day. Make sure all your outfits are put together with all of your accessories, be sure all the little detail- like shoes, jewelry, cufflinks and pocket squares are all accounted for. The last thing you want is to be searching for an iron or a lost tie on the morning of your wedding!

4. Allow plenty of time to get ready. Wedding mornings always take longer than expected- especially if you have a big bridal or groomsmen party. It's better to start early and be prepared, the last hour especially will always run away from you. Don’t forget to coordinate with your hair and make-up team about how long each step will take. Also, make sure you don’t go last out of your bridal party to have your hair and make-up done! Being ready early will ensure that you have time to relax and enjoy the moment.

5. Have a morning playlist! Music can set the tone for the day and help calm any pre-wedding jitters. Put together a fun playlist to get you and your bridal party in the party spirit. Whether it’s calming tunes to relax or upbeat tracks to get you energised, a good playlist can elevate the mood and get everyone excited for the day ahead!

6. Don’t worry if something doesn’t go to plan! Even with the best planning in the world, there is always the possibility that something might go wrong, but don't let that spoil your day. You're marrying the love of your life and that's all that matters. If you’ve hired a wedding planner, they will take care of any of the issues that may arise. If you're planning everything yourself, don't put too much pressure on yourself for everything to be perfect, no-one but you knows what the original plan was, so embrace the imperfections and enjoy your day! Even embrace whatever weather comes your way. If it rains and you fully embrace it, your guests will too!

7. Take your time to walk down the aisle! I’m sure you’ll hear this hundreds of times before your day, but your wedding day will go by so fast! Be sure to savour every second of it. Walking down the aisle is one of those moments (that if you’re like me, you’ve dreamed about for years!) It's a special moment that you'll want to remember forever! If you feel nervous, be sure to take in the sight of your partner waiting for you! Smile, and enjoy the walk!

8. Unplug for the day! Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so try and stay off your phone! All of your favourite people will be gathered with you, so you shouldn’t feel the need to call or text anyone! You’ve hired a professional photographer, so you don't need to take photos! Consider having an unplugged ceremony, too, to ensure that your guests are fully present in the moment.

9. Your day, your way! Your wedding should be a reflection of you and your partner—don’t feel pressured to follow traditions that don’t resonate with you. If you don’t want a wedding cake, skip it! If you don’t feel like wearing white, wear whatever makes you feel your best. The more personal and authentic your day is, the more you’ll enjoy it.

10. Spend time together! On your wedding day, everyone will want a piece of your attention, and that’s totally normal! Try to make a conscious effort to spend as much time as possible together, this day is about the two of you beginning a new chapter in your lives, and you’ll want to make sure you enjoy it together! Greet guests together and enjoy each other's company.

It's easy to get caught up in the planning and details, but don't loose sight of what truly matters. Remember this day is about the two of you! It is perfectly unique and special for you both and your story.

Take deep breaths, savour each moment, and let the day unfold naturally. Trust in your preparations and the professionals you've hired to make sure everything goes smoothly. When the day arrives, you’ll be so surprised with how well everything turned out and that all the planning has came to this day. YOUR DAY. Everything you’ve stressed about will not even cross your mind, as you will be too busy living within your dream. Remember, the cake will be eaten, the dress will be hung up, your last song will play. But the memories will last a lifetime! Be present, be happy. And remember this day is about the love you have for one another and not about the little details.

Sit in those memories for as long as you can. Your day will be a day you’ll speak about for the rest of your life. So enjoy it all… consume it… as, within the blink of an eye you’ll be celebrating your 5th anniversary!

I'm here with you every step of the way, ready to capture these priceless moments, and always happy to lend a hand or a word of encouragement. Here's to a wedding day filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories!!