5 Ways to Create a Stress-Free Wedding & Protect Your Memories!
- Mar 11
- 3 min read
Part of the reason why I LOVE elopements and micro-weddings is because they accomplish one, truly amazing thing for couples that larger weddings struggle to mimic - they keep the focus on what MATTERS.
Your attention isn't pulled a thousand different directions, and you can keep your focus on the love of your life, the chapter you're stepping into together, and the community you love (while TRULY making memories and not just whipping through your day)!
Get your priorities straight EARLY.
I love the rubber and glass ball theory for this - this conversation should the FIRST wedding conversation you two have together after getting engaged!
When you and your partner are talking about what's most important for the two of you on your wedding, consider them from this perspective - what things would truly, sincerely and truly hurt you if they didn't happen on your wedding day? Or if they went wrong? (Try to keep this list to 2-3 things.) Now, what things might just disappoint you if they didn't happen or went wrong? What could you go without?
This list will guide you straight into the tone and feel of wedding you create together.
Do you want to go sentimental, restful, and have intentional time with those closest to you? Try a backyard wedding (I have quite a whimsical Pinterest inspiration board here)!
Do you want a STUNNING venue that feels like a lavish party, yet offers opportunities for you and your family to spend some time together for the weekend? Try a coastal wedding (OH look another Pinterest board)!
Day of Wedding Coordinator
If I can convince you of ANYTHING on this list, please let it be this one. Day of coordinators are LIFE-SAVERS - whether that's your wedding planner, a trusted family member or friend, I've seen these people save brides SO. MUCH. STRESS.
This person is your time czar, your drama buster, your logistics guru - they are an incredible asset when it comes to focusing on the things that matter during your wedding day.
PLEASE consider a day of coordinator and build them into your budget!!!!
Eat and Stay Hydrated!
Girly, you NEED to eat and have some water on your wedding day! Make sure you have a solid breakfast and have a few trusted snacks on hand that you can eat quickly. Take care of yourself! The LAST thing you want is to be sitting in a beautiful moment and thinking about how hungry you are as it passes you by.
Clarify Vendor Payments / Methods BEFORE Your Wedding Day
The LAST thing you need is to be trying to figure out payment on the day of your wedding (unfortunately, I have a few horror stories around this one). Make SURE you are clear on when vendors expect payment and how much they expect you to pay BEFORE your wedding day. Forward all the information to your day-of-coordinator, give them whatever payments they need, and let them handle it!
Plan Peace INTO Your Wedding
Okay - this point is technically cheating, because it's going to be a rapid-fire list of items that will help you plan peace into your day instead of crossing your fingers and hoping for the best. Here we go!
Personality MATTERS with your vendors. This is true of some more than others - photographers spend the MAJORITY of your day with you and help set the tone for your day. Choose people you trust with solid reputations!
Celebrate THROUGHOUT your wedding weekend - it doesn't have to be official or big, it can be a casual afterparty at a friends apartment, or a sunrise walk and brunch with your bridal party, OR start the week off with a vacation alongside your family at an awesome Airbnb! Just find ways to build in TRUE FUN that isn't rushed or dictated by a timeline.
If your vendors are telling you there's not enough buffer, TRUST THEM! They know what their limits are, and they WANT you to have a peaceful day (that means you'll recommend more people to them later on). If they're telling you there's not enough buffer, believe them and discuss your options together!
Keep your morning of slow, steady, and filled with things you enjoy - whether that's a quiet sunrise run by yourself (I opted for that and LOVED it), a breakfast with your family, or a mini dance party, find things that fill you with joy and peace and start your day off WELL.
This list isn't about making your wedding "perfect." In fact, it's the unplanned, imperfect moments that make your day unique and set apart. It's these memories you're making with your future spouse and loved ones that make your wedding day precious.
Leave room to enjoy the fun moments when they come and allow them to become cherished memories. Safeguard them wisely. <3
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