before you keep reading..
I created something I wish every couple had before their wedding day.
Click the link below, or stay awhile and read my thoughts :)
10 Mistakes I see as a Wedding Photographer
Not Building Enough Time Into the Timeline
One late vendor,
one delayed hair appointment,
or one family member running behind can create a domino effect.
Extra buffer time keeps the day relaxed.
Forgetting to Pack Wedding Details
Rings. Invitation suite. Perfume.
Jewelry. Heirlooms. Vow books.
These are some of the first photographs your photographer takes, but they're often scattered throughout the room.
This is where your Detail Box shines.
Trying to Do Everything Yourself
Brides often feel responsible for answering questions all day.
Instead...
Assign people.
Mom handles family.
Maid of Honor handles vendors.
Planner handles timeline.
You get married.
skipping goldden hour
Brides think
"We don't have time."
You only need 10–15 minutes.
Those photos often become favorites.
-
Not Communicating Family Dynamics
Divorced parents.
Estranged siblings.
Stepparents.
Sensitive situations.
Tell your photographer beforehand.
It makes portraits smoother and avoids awkward moments.
Forgetting to Eat Breakfast
(or Lunch!)
I cannot tell you how many brides...
Don't.
Then they're emotional, dehydrated, and lightheaded.
Water. Protein. Snacks.
Please.
rushing down the aisle
Everyone does it.
Nerves.
Take your time.
Smile.
Look around.
Hold hands.
Enjoy it.
Spending Too Much Time on Their Phone
One of my favorites.
Checking notifications.
Reading texts.
Watching Stories.
Instead...
Put it away.
You only get this day once.
FORGETTING THE MARRIAGE LICENSE
This happens WAY more than people think.
Or...
They leave before it's signed.
Great reminder for your checklist.
THINKING EVERYTHING HAS TO BE PERFECT
This should be your closing mistake.
The flowers might not be exactly right.
Someone might be late.
It might rain.
None of those things determine how meaningful your wedding becomes.
The couples who enjoy their day the most are the ones who let go of perfection and choose presence instead.
BONUS IDEAS
• Wearing shoes that have never been broken in
• Forgetting comfortable reception shoes
• Not having enough getting-ready light
• Not steaming the dress
• Waiting too long to bustle the dress
• Wearing Apple Watches in formal portraits
• Not cleaning the bridal suite before photos
• Forgetting a ring box
• Forgetting perfume
• Not practicing bustling the dress
• Booking a ceremony too close to sunset
• Not telling your photographer what heirlooms matter
• Not assigning a family wrangler
• Overpacking the timeline
These are just a few of the lessons I've learned after photographing weddings FOR 7 YEARS. If you're looking for a complete roadmap to planning a calm, intentional wedding day, I created my Wedding Planning Guide to walk you through everything from timelines and family portraits to wedding morning prep and golden hour.
CLICK THE BUTTON BELOW