HELP! How to Prevent Wedding Day Disasters | Pittsburgh Wedding Photographer

Let's talk frankly - on your wedding day, something is going to go wrong.  It always does. There's a lot of moving parts to a wedding, and sometimes things just happen. However, if you're prepared, this doesn't have to be a big deal.  Usually the issues that arise are minor, and easily remedied.  To help you get ready, here are some tips keeping things running smoothly!

Step ONe: Wedding Timeline

Part of having everything go smoothly is having a well thought out wedding timeline (which is why I meet with my clients two weeks before the big day to finalize the details!).  If you have a wedding planner, they'll be with you for this!  If you're doing it on your own, make sure you ask your vendors how much time they'll need for their part of your day. For example, talk to your hair & makeup artist.  How long will they need for each bridesmaid, the moms, and you?  Then build in a buffer (at least 15 min) in case things run over!  For photography, I prefer we build in 2 hours for pictures (1/2 hour for family formals, 1/2 hour for wedding party, 1/2 hour for the couple!, 1/2 hour for travel/buffer).  For photography, this can be split up throughout the day if you plan on sneaking out of the reception for sunset pictures or if you're doing a first look.  Be on the look out for a photographer's ideal timeline - coming soon to the blog!

step two: put someone in charge

When something inevitably goes wrong (again, its usually minor!), having someone in charge (who is NOT you) makes a big difference in how quickly it can be fixed.  If you've hired a wedding planner, they'll be the go-to on your big day to handle these issues.  If you didn't, put someone in charge!  This can be your Mom, your maid of honor, or just a close friend that you feel would be able to handle things.  Give that person all your vendors contact information, and make sure your vendors know who your point person is! This keeps you from adding more stress on your wedding day!

Step three: Pack an Emergency kit

The day of your wedding, you're going to need some things.  Pack a small bag in advance that has everything you might need.  If you don't end up using it - great!  If you do, you'll be glad you prepared.  Make sure your point person for the day is in charge of it!  

Here's some things to consider packing.  Depending on your day, you may need more or less!

• Sewing kit - many a button has fallen off during weddings!
• Stain removal pen - if something falls on your dress before the ceremony, you may need this
• Advil (or your preferred pain reliever)
• Hem tape & safety pins
• Tissues
• Deodorant wipes - works better & easier than a traditional deodorant when you have your dress on
• Wisps- remember those mini toothbrushes with breath fresheners on them?  Super helpful!
• Blotting paper - especially for a summer wedding
• Nail file
• Makeup - especially your lip color for touch-ups throughout the night
• KrazyGlue - you never know!
• Earring backs
• Antacid
• Hairspray (travel sized)
• Lens wipes - if you have glasses (cake getting on glasses is hard to get out!)
• Tampons or sanitary napkins
• Lint roller
• Hand sanitizer
• Tweezers 

If you don't want to purchase all these items and make your own bag, there are many different "Bridal Emergency Kits" you can buy online!  This is one of my favorites, but there are plenty of options to choose from!

STEP FOUR: RELAX!

The most important thing you can do for yourself on your wedding day is to relax.  Yes, some things may go wrong.  However, what's important is you marrying the love of your life!  Let go of the little things, and focus on being present with your new spouse!  Enjoy your day, and celebrate your relationship!  

PS: A massage a few days before your wedding can help too!

Thanks for reading!  If you have any other advice, please leave it in the comments!

Katie

---

---

follow me on instagram

---