Wedding planning is a bit funny. You’ll spend many months, or even years, ticking off planning checklists of things you MUST DO. But then, come the wedding day itself, it’s what you DON’T do that becomes really important. Basically, your only task should be celebrating your marriage – and enjoying it too. No errands. No last-minute DIY. No driving around picking up guests. No decorating the venue. It should be a day to finally enjoy the fruits of your planning. So, here are 11 wedding day don’ts – because doing less really means stressing less.
Don’t make extra plans for the morning of the wedding. There’s a reason this is at the top of the wedding day don’ts list. Avoid this at all costs – it’s better to enjoy a few extra hours relaxing, because the rest of your day will be pretty intense.
Photo from Victoria & Desmond’s real wedding by Tara Donoghue Photography
Don’t fret about things that didn’t get done. The truth is, nobody will know or notice. As long as you and your other half are there, that’s all that matters.
Don’t take calls from suppliers. If something needs attention, or someone’s going to be late, let the appointed person take care of it. In case you haven’t chosen this person yet, pick someone you can trust, like chief bridesmaid, mum or brother, who’ll take calls on your behalf. If there’s a true emergency, they’ll let you know, don’t worry.
Don’t use untested beauty products, or pluck anything. Who knows how your skin will react – and it’ll all be well documented in the photos.
Don’t ask your hair stylist and makeup artist to try something new. They may even oblige, but it could throw your entire schedule into disarray. And while some say being fashionably late is no big deal, it is a pretty big deal to the person waiting for you at the altar.
Photo from Sabrina & Ian’s real wedding by Aidan Beatty Photography
Don’t skip breakfast, and don’t get drunk. You’ve probably heard of Dutch courage? Leave it to the Dutch. Also, do you want the sound of your rumbling stomach recorded by your videographer for posterity? It may be hilarious when you watch that video on your 25th wedding anniversary, but until then, it’ll be mortifying. Girls, it has actually happened.
Don’t argue with anyone. You may be serene now, but there’s really no telling how you’ll feel on the day itself. Past brides have reported frazzled nerves, floods of tears, and feeling completely confused until they arrived at the ceremony. It’s understandable you may be on edge – but remember, it’s only because you’re feeling the significance of this important occasion.
Don’t forget to have individual photos taken with all your family members. Real brides have reported the heartbreak of missing out on beautiful photos with siblings, grandparents and great-grandparents. Tell the photographer in advance to add these to the must-take list.
Photo from Louise & Joe’s real wedding by The Fennells
Don’t forget an overnight bag if you’re staying at the venue. If you’re partaking of the bridal suite for your wedding night, without a change of clothes you’ll be travelling back home in your wedding dress. It may be fun putting it back on again… but most likely, it won’t be.
Don’t forget to eat the yummy food. Those amazing trays of hors d’oueuvres will disappear before you know it, because everyone loves them. So when you see one, make sure to grab a nibble. Likewise at dinner – make sure to take the time to enjoy the amazing food and desserts too.
Don’t spend every single moment surrounded by people. Steal your new husband or wife away from it all even for just a few minutes. Go somewhere private, have a hug and a kiss, ask how their day is going. You’ll be so glad you did when it’s all over.
Photo from Suzanne & Johnny’s real wedding by Algarve Weddings by Rebecca
Main photo by Emma Russell Photography
