5 Things I Wish I Had Done Differently at My Own Wedding
Don’t get me wrong, I adored my wedding day at Paradise Falls. Having all my loved ones under one roof was an experience of a life time. I still fantasize about having all my loved ones together again to party the night away. However, there were a few key changes I wish I would’ve made to make the celebration that much sweeter.
1. Hired a wedding planner
I naively thought that I was good to go since my venue had a venue coordinator. She did work her butt off for us, but having a wedding planner would’ve made things run so much smoother. I would’ve been able to relax more and focus on the celebration instead of worrying about logistics. For instance, I totally forgot to make arrangements for end-of-night transportation (whoops)- something a coordinator would’ve done with ease.
2. Had a sweetheart table
Nick and I got married before 99% of our friends did. Which meant we had only attended one wedding before our own big day came around. We had just assumed that the wedding party was to sit up front on either side of us. If I could go back though, I would’ve switched to just having myself and Nick sit at our sweetheart table and letting our bridal party have dinner next to their dates and friends. No need to force their dates to awkwardly mingle with people they didn’t know! They were next to us at the altar, we didn’t need to force them to be next to us at the reception as well.
3. More carefully picked out our First Dance song
While I still enjoy the first dance song we picked, I wish we picked something more classic and timeless, and not just our favorite song from the moment that didn’t have a deep meaning to us. I didn’t have the foresight to realize that song would become “Our Song” down the road- something you should smile at when you hear it on the radio or your playlist. So, pick one that you’ll want to dance to at your 50-year anniversary, and not just something trendy for the moment!
4. Had our parents give toasts
Again, Nick and I didn’t know much about how weddings worked before we got married. Just our Maid of Honor and Best Man gave toasts at our wedding. But now, as a wedding photographer, I will tell you that the very best toasts always come from the parents. The love that is expressed in a mother or fathers toast can be so powerful and meaningful. Ask your parents if they’d like to give a toast at your big day!
5. Ate a big meal before the day started
Guys, I was suffering at my own wedding because of this. We totally forgot to plan a big meal before the day got started. By the time dinner came around I was starving, dehydrated and had such a headache . I barely got to drink at my own wedding because the wine gave me such a headache. I would’ve been such a happier camper if I had a nice big, healthy meal and water early on.
This list could definitely go on, but these are the top changes I wish I made. Hopefully you can learn from my mistakes and have an even more magical day! If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out my other Bride Tips posts for more helpful tips and tricks. Thanks!
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