In my opinion there are some MUST KNOW tips that every bride needs to know prior to entering her wedding day in order to ensure that is goes as perfectly as possible!

I am a Photographer based in San Diego, CA and previously based in Upstate, NY. I have shot over 25 weddings between lead and second shooting, so I would say I know a thing or two when it comes to what you need to know the day of your wedding.

1. Break in Your Shoes!!!

The worst thing you could do to yourself is worry about your shoes making you miserable! Whether you are breaking your shoes in prior, having a shoe change, or just forgoing to heels overall, making sure you are comfortable is so important for your day. I have seen people wear all white sneakers such as Steve Madden sneaks, or even as casual as Converse or Nike Air Force Ones! I have even seen people wearing cute little fuzzy slippers. No matter what, at the end of the day no one is going to be judging your shoe choice, so please do yourself a favor and make sure you are comfortable on your special day!

2. Plan Ahead of Time!

Stress could be the fallout! You don’t want to be worrying, and you definitely don’t want to be answering to anyone else about your day. A couple ways to combat this are getting a day of coordinator or a Wedding Planner. This can seriously help eliminate day of stress. In addition, it is a great idea to have all the planning done before the week of, you don’t want to be stressing and trying to figure things out in the last week when you should be getting excited. I have heard so many brides say “I can’t wait for the wedding to be over,” and to be honest that is one of the saddest things to hear! Your wedding day comes, hopefully, once in your life! It should be celebrated, special, and something to be excited for. You will remember your wedding day for the rest of your life, so remember it for the good times, not the stress!

• 

• 

• 

3. EAT, SLEEP, & HYDRATEEEE

Something I see far too often is that the Bride forgets to eat and drink (non-alcoholically) on the big day! This can cause extra stress, upset stomachs, dehydrations, and more — all things that we shouldn’t have to worry about!! Whether it’s getting tacos from Del Taco, burgers and nugs from McDonalds, or donuts from Dunkin, have a little brunch while you’re getting ready with the girls! You gotta have more than just mimosas, even though they’re the perfect photo-op! Also drink waterrrr — one for every drink! In my opinion, you do not want to be toooo drunk, you want to remember the day!

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

4. Make time for YOURSELF.

Remember that your wedding day is in fact your day. Aside from all of the photos, people you need to be talking to, and traditions that are taking place — you need to have time for yourself! Whether that is having a private dance at the end of the night or during cocktail hour, or a private moment to read vows… having time alone with your partner on the day of is so crucial and something you will be thankful for later on.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

5. Make sure your Maid of Honor has your phone & all the important contacts.

Something no one prepares you for is that Vendors will have questions on the day of — where to park, where to meet you, other last minute details! It is super important that your Maid of Honor has all those contacts so that they can answer those questions and you don’t have to worry about it. In addition, it will be less stress for you as the Bride with everyone getting into contact with you!

• 

6. Tell Your Loved Ones You Appreciate Them!

At the end of the day it is your day, but the people sharing your day with you LOVE you. It will be so nice to also make sure that everyone helping out with your day also feels appreciated. From your Maid of Honor, to your grandparents, to the people who came from far and wide to celebrate your love, everyone loves to feel appreciated. It goes a long way, trust me!

• 

• 

Check out my Instagram for all things wedding!