Wedding Planning Tips: How to Prepare for Your Big Day

Wedding Planning Tips

Planning a wedding can feel like a big task, but it’s also one of the most exciting parts of your journey. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, your big day should reflect everything you’ve dreamed of. As a wedding photographer, I’ve captured countless beautiful moments and gathered valuable insights along the way. These wedding planning tips will help make the process smoother and ensure your day is as unforgettable as it deserves to be.

Start with the Right Venue

The venue sets the tone for your wedding day! From the ceremony to the reception, it influences everything—including the flow of events. When choosing your venue, consider where you’ll get ready, the best spots for portraits, and how the space aligns with your vision. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing stunning weddings at iconic locations like the Detroit Institute of Arts and Shepherd’s Hollow Golf Club, which offer incredible settings for every moment of your day. For more ideas, check out my guide to the Top TImeless Detroit Wedding Venues.

Choose the Perfect Getting Ready Space

Your getting-ready space sets the stage for some of the most meaningful moments of the day. Look for a bright, spacious area where you can enjoy time with your closest friends and family. Whether it’s a chic hotel suite, a stylish Airbnb, or a venue with a cozy private room, a well-chosen space with plenty of natural light creates the perfect backdrop for candid and joyful photos.

Gather Meaningful Details for Your Flat Lay

Flat lay photography captures the personal details that make your wedding unique. When planning, gather items like your invitation suite, rings, jewelry, and heirlooms. These curated details tell your story and add character to your wedding gallery. Whether it’s something old, new, borrowed, or blue, these touches create timeless memories.

Match Your Veil to Your Dress

Small details can have a big impact! If your wedding dress is ivory, choose an ivory veil. If your dress is champagne, go for a champagne veil, and if your dress is white, opt for a white veil. It’s tempting to think subtle differences in color won’t be noticeable, but they often are—especially in photos. Ensuring your veil matches your dress creates a polished, cohesive look that will make you feel confident and flawless on your big day.

Plan a Realistic Timeline

A well-planned timeline is key to a stress-free wedding day. Start by scheduling enough time for each event, with buffers to account for any delays. Build in extra time for hair and makeup, transportation, and a few moments to breathe. With a thoughtful timeline, you’ll avoid feeling rushed and can fully enjoy every part of your day. Read more about How to Build the Perfect TImeline here!

Prioritize Your Portraits

Portraits are one of the highlights of your wedding day. Schedule dedicated time for bridal party and couple photos, and consider doing a first look before the ceremony. A first look allows for an intimate, relaxed experience and gives you more time to capture beautiful, emotional moments without feeling rushed. When planning your portraits, choosing a beautiful space is key. Lean on your photographer for guidance and suggestions—they have the eye for spotting stunning backdrops that will elevate your images. You might even consider traveling to a special location, especially in the city. Iconic spots like the Monarch Club or the newly renovated Michigan Central Station not only provide breathtaking settings but also offer photography permits for your portraits. Not sure if a first look is for you? Read about my top 5 Reasons to Incorporate a First Look on your wedding day.

Plan for a Rainy Day

Weather can be unpredictable, but a backup plan ensures you’re ready for anything. Many venues offer indoor alternatives, and rainy day photos can be magical with a little creativity. As your photographer, I’ll help make every moment beautiful, no matter the weather!

Work with Your Vendors

Your wedding vendors are your partners in bringing your vision to life. Share your timeline and details with them to ensure everything runs smoothly. If you’re looking for trusted recommendations, I’ve worked with amazing florists, DJs, and planners who always deliver exceptional results. Check out my Ultimate Guide to the Best Detroit Wedding Vendors for a comprehensive list of some amazing professionals.

Pack a Wedding Day Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit can save you from last-minute stress. Pack essentials like a needle and thread, extra hairpins, deodorant, lip gloss, stain remover, and a small sewing kit. Assign someone to keep it handy, so you can focus on celebrating without worry.

Stay Tuned for More Wedding Tips

Your wedding day should be everything you’ve dreamed of, and these wedding planning tips will help set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Planning ahead is just the first step! Be sure to check back soon for my guide to stress-free wedding day tips, where I’ll share even more advice to make your big day seamless and joyful.

If you’re looking for a photographer to capture every beautiful, authentic moment, I’d love to chat! Contact me to learn how I can help bring your vision to life.