6 Ways to Reduce Stress on Your Wedding Day
Wedding season is just around the corner, and as an Oregon wedding photographer, I’ve seen how the most memorable weddings are the ones where couples are relaxed and truly able to soak in the joy of their big day. But let’s be honest—wedding planning can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy for stress to creep in.
That’s why I’ve put together my top six tips to help you reduce stress on your wedding day. From hiring the right team to embracing the unexpected, these strategies will help ensure your day is as fun and stress-free as possible. Let’s dive in!
Tip #1: Hire a planner!
If there’s one decision you’ll never regret as a bride or groom, it’s hiring a wedding planner. This single choice can significantly reduce the stress of your big day. As an Oregon wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how much smoother the day runs when a professional planner is involved. They handle everything from coordinating with vendors to troubleshooting last-minute surprises.
Couples who invest in a planner enjoy the day more because they know someone is taking care of every detail—leaving them free to savor every moment. Even your family and friends will thank you, as they’ll get to relax and celebrate with you instead of stepping in to manage logistics. Trust me, a planner is worth every penny!
Bonus: Check out top tips for hiring an experienced wedding planner
Tip #2: Surround Yourself with Trusted Vendors
Your wedding day is only as seamless as the team behind it. Having a team of trusted vendors who understand your vision and deliver exceptional service is a game-changer. As an Oregon wedding photographer, I can tell you that working with professionals who know what they’re doing makes all the difference—not just for you but for everyone involved in the day.
When you’re confident in your vendors, you can fully relax and enjoy yourself, knowing each detail is in capable hands. From the caterer to the florist and everyone in between, hire people you trust. Bonus tip: When someone asks who’s on your vendor team, you should feel proud and excited to say, “They’re amazing!”
Tip #3: Find Your Vision and Step Away from Pinterest
Pinterest can be both a blessing and a curse when it comes to wedding planning. While it’s a great source of inspiration, it can also overwhelm you with endless ideas and make it harder to stick to your vision.
Instead, use Pinterest to gather ideas and narrow down your style. Create a board to share with your planner and vendors, then step away! Trust your team of professionals to bring your vision to life. Staying focused on your unique style will make your wedding feel personal and authentic instead of a mix-and-match Pinterest project.
Tip #4: Have a Well-Thought-Out Timeline
A well-organized timeline is one of the most important tools for a smooth wedding day. When everyone knows where they’re supposed to be and when it eliminates unnecessary stress and confusion. Share your timeline with your wedding party, vendors, and key family members ahead of time so everyone is on the same page.
Keep in mind that things often take longer than expected, so build in a little extra padding to account for delays. Whether it’s hair and makeup running over or an unexpected photo opportunity, having that buffer can make a huge difference. A solid timeline ensures that everything flows seamlessly, leaving you free to enjoy every moment.
Bonus: Check out all of my tips for creating a wedding day timeline here
Tip #5: Provide a Family Shot List
Family photo time can be one of the most chaotic parts of the day, but with a little preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Providing a detailed family shot list ahead of time helps streamline the process and ensures no one important is missed.
Once I receive the shot list, I’ll calculate how much time we’ll need for family photos and share that with you. During the photo session, I’ll guide everyone through the list and encourage your family to enjoy the moment rather than focus on snapping their own pictures. This approach minimizes stress, keeps things organized, and gives you more time to celebrate with your loved ones.
Remember, your wedding isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s a celebration of your love with family and friends. By planning ahead, you can enjoy every second without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Bonus: Head here for all my tips on making family photos as stress free as possible
Tip #6: Go with the Flow
Even with the best planning, weddings rarely go 100% according to schedule—and that’s okay! Having an easygoing attitude will help you enjoy your day, no matter what happens. If something doesn’t go as planned, chances are you’re the only one who will notice. Your guests are there to celebrate with you, not to critique every detail.
Building buffer time into your timeline can help ease the pressure if things run behind. But more importantly, focus on the joy of the day rather than the perfection of every detail. At the end of it all, you’ll still say “I do,” and that’s what truly matters.
Relax, embrace the unexpected, and let yourself savor the love and happiness all around you.
Your wedding day should be a celebration filled with joy, love, and unforgettable moments—not stress. By following these six tips, you’ll be setting yourself up for a day that flows smoothly and allows you to fully embrace every special moment with your loved ones.
I’m here to capture the magic of your day so you can relive it for years to come. If you’re looking for someone to document your love story with timeless, candid images, I’d love to hear from you!
Ready to book your wedding photography or learn more about my services? Contact me today to chat about your vision and how I can help make your wedding day unforgettable. Let’s create something beautiful together!
Updated: January, 27th, 2025