PLAN YOUR WEDDING WITH EASE: EXPERT TIPS FOR A STRESS-FREE MONTH!

Excitement is in the air! Can you believe it? Your wedding is just one month away! But hold on a second, I totally get it. With all the excitement also comes a wave of overwhelm. There are so many details to iron out, decisions to make, and boxes to check off the list. It can feel like a lot, right?

Well, fear not! My name’s Lou O'Brien, I’m a Sunshine Coast wedding photographer, and I'm here to make sure that the countdown to your big day is not just manageable but also a whole lot of fun! Believe me, I've been behind the lens for countless weddings, and I've seen it all. I'll share some expert tips and ideas to ensure that this month leading up to your wedding is as stress-free and enjoyable as it can be.

First things first, take a deep breath. Seriously, go ahead, close your eyes, and inhale that sweet, wedding-planning-free air. Now, let's get started on making this month a breeze.

1. Finalise Your Timeline:

First things first, work with your wedding planner or coordinator to finalise your wedding day timeline. Knowing when and where everything is happening will help you relax and enjoy the moment without constantly checking your watch. It is also important to share this timeline with all your suppliers, after all, as I always say, “Teamwork makes the dreamwork!”.

2. Confirm Vendors:

Call or email your wedding vendors to confirm all the details and make your final payments. Make sure everyone is on the same page and knows exactly what's expected of them. This includes your photographer (wink, wink!), hair & makeup, caterer, florist, DJ, and anyone else who's playing a crucial role in your big day. Trust that you have hired professionals that have your best interests at heart and know that they will bring their A-game to make your day the best it can be.

3. Delegate Tasks:

Don't be afraid to delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members. They want to help, so let them! Assign someone to handle any last-minute issues that may arise on the big day, this could be someone in your bridal party or your MC. Afterall, you’re the VIP who’s put in the hard yards up until the big day, you deserve to relax and be in the moment.

4. Pamper Yourself:

Take some time to pamper yourself. Get a massage, do a face mask, or simply relax with a good book. A little self-care can go a long way in reducing pre-wedding jitters.
5. Pack an Emergency Kit:

It's always better to be prepared for the unexpected on your wedding day. That's why I recommend putting together an emergency kit that includes all the essentials to handle any unforeseen hiccups. Believe me, you never know when you'll need it, but having these items on hand can save the day.

Here are six must-have items to include in your wedding day emergency kit:

Safety Pins: Perfect for quick fixes on dresses, suits, or even bouquets.

Stain Remover: Accidents happen, and this little miracle worker can help banish those pesky stains.

Sewing Kit: A needle and thread can be a lifesaver for last-minute wardrobe malfunctions.

Pain Relievers: Whether it's a headache or a sudden ache, having pain relievers can keep you feeling your best.

Tissues: Tears of joy or a sneeze attack—tissues are a versatile necessity.

Mini Snack Pack: Keep a few energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, nuts, or chocolate in your kit. Weddings can be long affairs, and having a quick snack can help keep your energy levels up and ensure you're ready to enjoy every moment.

6. Stay Hydrated and Get Plenty of Sleep:

I can't stress this enough. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep will help you look and feel your best on your wedding day. So plan your Buck’s and Hen’s at least a week before the big day to give yourself some time to recover.
7. Practice Deep Breathing:

If you start feeling overwhelmed, practice some deep breathing exercises. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. It's amazing how this can help calm your nerves.

8. Excitement Email:

This is my top tip that I always recommend to my couples. I call it the "Excitement Email”! Send this fun and informative email out the week of your wedding. It's like a sneak peek into the awesomeness that awaits your guests! In this email, spill the beans on all the important details such as:

- What time they should arrive at the ceremony (early birds get the best seats, after all).

- The address and detailed directions to both the ceremony and reception venues.

- What's happening between the ceremony and reception (cocktail hour, anyone?).

- Let your guests know to stick around for the group photos after the ceremony.

- If you're having a post-wedding day brunch or lunch with your guests, let them know.

- Any helpful information about the region that would make their stay more enjoyable. This could include restaurant recommendations, local attractions, and perhaps even some insider tips.

Remember, the month leading up to your wedding should be filled with excitement, not stress. So, follow these tips, and you'll be well on your way to a fantastic, worry-free wedding day.

And of course, if you're looking for a photographer to capture all those beautiful moments, you know who to call!

So, take a deep breath, enjoy this special month, and get ready for the wedding of your dreams. You've got this!