We’ve all heard it – “your wedding day will go by so fast!” And it’s true! I’ve seen so many couples forget to eat because everything is moving so quickly! Planning is so important, but slowing down and enjoying the moment is crucial, because what’s the point if by the end of the day you barely remember any of it? I’ve put together my favorite 5 ways to slow down and be intentional with your wedding day.
I’m a strong believer in your wedding day being YOUR day, whatever that means to you. There are no rules, so I always encourage my couples to do the things that make them feel the most alive. Since there are no rules, here are 5 ways to make the most of your day, be intentional, and slow down to be present in the moment.
1. Schedule time in your day for YOU
Yes, your wedding day is about getting married and spending time with the love of your life, but it’s also important to schedule some time for yourself to reflect, relax and enjoy the moment. You’re probably going to wake up excited and full of nerves, so take some time to sip on some coffee like you normally would at the start of your day, or read your vows or a letter from your partner. It’s important to start the day right and take some time to breathe and reflect so that you can make the most of the rest of the day and be more present at your wedding.
2. Get ready together
Alright, I know this one is pretty untraditional, but I think it’s so special and really starts your day on a special note. Imagine getting to spend some time together talking about how excited you are, cuddling up before everything starts, helping with each others’ shoes and just taking time together. It always creates such intimate moments and even more memories about the day that you’ll always get to remember.
The best part is that you get to spend even more time with your partner on your wedding day! Everything can go by so quickly, and finding moments like these to spend together will help your day feel so much more special.
To see a sweet example of a couple getting ready together in the morning, check out Sydney & Kathryn’s Intimate Spring Wedding!
3. Make sure you have extra time in your timeline
One of the biggest mistakes I see my couples make is to not schedule any extra time in your day. Whether that’s just 15 minutes after your ceremony, or an extra 30 minutes after getting ready, the best way to have extra time in your day to slow down and breathe is the plan for it!
It’s natural and totally expected for things to sometimes run a little behind at weddings, or to get a little off schedule. By not scheduling any extra moments throughout the day, it’s so easy to start rushing and getting stressed and forgetting to enjoy the moment.
Make extra time a priority! And if you’re not running behind, then you get to just take that moment to hang out with your new partner and talk about what a great day you’re having.
4. Trust your photographer!
My goal is that you basically forget I’m even there (except during group photos and things like that). I’ve got you covered! I just want you to enjoy the day and trust me to capture everything beautifully.
Don’t worry about everything looking perfect for photos! If that’s all you’re thinking about, then you’ll miss out on so many other moments! Your only job is to be present in the moment and enjoy your day, so make sure you hire a photographer that you totally trust. We’ve got you and we love those unplanned, candid moments the most.
5. Remember why you’re there and celebrate along the way
Ultimately, you’re getting married! That’s what the day is all about. It’s not about the perfect florals, or even your guests. It’s about you, your love, and celebrating the start of a beautiful new part of your lives. Don’t forget this. Make sure you remember this as your buttoning up your dress or straightening your tie. Make sure you remember this as you walk down the aisle and look into the eyes of the person you love more than anything in the world. Remind yourself along every part of the day that the reason you’re there is because you’re crazy in love with someone who loves you just as crazily back and that’s what it’s really all about at the end of the day.
For more tips, check out some of my favorite blog posts by other writers:
XO,
Tami
