A joyfxul wedding moment moment shows a bride crowd-surfing at her wedding reception, with a sea of hands supporting her and smiles all around.

A joyful bride and groom walk hand in hand, smiling broadly as they are showered with confetti by their guests. The bride is wearing a flowing white gown, and the groom is in a dark suit. This black and white photograph captures the exuberance and emotion of the moment, showcasing the joy and happiness of their wedding day.

FOR A FUN, JOYFUL, STRESS-FREE WEDDING DAY

Ten Ways to Prioritize Joy on Your Wedding Day

Planning a wedding is a lot. The days, weeks, and even months leading up to it can be stressful. After years of photographing weddings, as well as planning my own wedding, I’ve put together a list of things you can do to prioritize having fun on your wedding day.

A bride sits gracefully on the edge of a bed in a light-filled room, wearing a delicate blue robe with sheer sleeves, preparing for her wedding day. This serene moment captures the elegance and intimacy of getting ready photos, ideal for showcasing the beauty of bridal preparations. — How to Have a Stress-Free Wedding Day

1. Start the Day Slowly

Begin with a relaxing morning routine. You’ll probably want to jump right into things, but set aside time to breathe, have a quiet moment, or even go for a short walk to center yourself before the day starts.

A joyful bride and groom share a candid laugh during their wedding ceremony, seated in a beautifully designed church pew with intricate woodwork. This moment highlights how to have fun at your wedding by embracing the joy and connection with your partner. Perfect inspiration for couples seeking stress-free and memorable wedding moments. — Photography by Amy Dost

2. Have a Trusted Advocate

Have someone who knows your vision and can help you if family members, vendors, or any other pressures become overwhelming.

If you need me to, I will always speak up for you. This is you and your fiancé’s wedding; no one else’s. It helps to remember that.

A bride, groom, and bridesmaid share a joyful moment as the bride pours champagne into a tower of glasses at their wedding reception. This candid celebration shot showcases the couple's happiness and joyful wedding day. — Photography by Amy Dost

3. Have Open Communication with Vendors

If you’re feeling stressed out, aren’t liking something, or feel overstimulated or burnt out let your photographer know! I don’t want you to look back on your photos and see that.

If you need a break, or need anything at all, don’t be afraid to speak up. And if you don’t feel you can talk to a vendor openly, they might not be the right person for you.

4. Plan for Interactive and Fun Photos

Work with a photographer who knows how to get you interacting and laughing together. Choose someone who uses prompts to create movement and natural reactions so your photos truly reflect the joy of the day without feeling posed or stiff.

A bride and groom share an intimate and joyful embrace, with the groom nuzzling into the bride on the temple while she smiles brightly. The couple's happiness and love are evident in this candid moment. — Photography by Amy Dost

5. Limit Your To-Do List

In the days leading up to your wedding, let go of any last-minute DIYs or tasks that aren’t essential. The more you can delegate, the more you can stay present and relaxed.

Take advantage of anything you can do before the wedding instead of the day of. Bringing decor and setting up might not seem like much, but any extra time you can have on the actual wedding day is huge.

A bride in a soft, white wedding dress holds a bright, pink cocktail, her smile radiant and her posture relaxed. The close-up captures her elegant jewelry and perfectly manicured nails. — Photography by Amy Dost

6. Nourish Yourself

Snickers is right— you’re not you when you’re hungry. Or thirsty for that matter. If you aren’t a big breakfast person, have something to at least pick at while you’re getting ready. And if you need food or water, pretty much any person near you will be happy to fill the request.

7. Minimize Over-scheduling

When we build the timeline it will be tempting to pack in as much as possible, but having buffer time gives you the chance to take in and enjoy every part of the day. It also significantly reduces the stress of the day.

If something or someone runs late, it’s okay! We have ample time to make it up. Your photographer should work with you and other vendors to nail down what is required.

8. Be Present with Your Partner

Find moments to connect. I always try to encourage these moments during portraits, because oftentimes it is the only time you’ll be able to be alone together.

Even if it’s just a few seconds to take it all in. This can help keep the focus on what really matters.

9. Surround Yourself with Positive People

The people around you set the tone for the day. Choose family, friends, and vendors who lift you up, keep you calm, and make you feel celebrated.

10. Embrace Imperfections

Remember that things may not go exactly as planned, and that’s to be expected. Go in with a mindset of embracing anything that happens.

Some of the most beautiful wedding photos will be in the rain, or of the streak your tears left in your makeup. If you don’t let it impact the day, it usually won’t.

Bonus Tip:

BE YOURSELF (and plan to be yourself)

I sound like my mom on my first day of kindergarten, but she was right. If you’re going to be tearing up the dance floor (or crowd surfing), make sure you can move in your dress. Bring backup shoes. Give yourself permission to have fun and let you be you.

By planning with joy in mind and staying focused on the experience, your happiness will show through in both the photos and your memory of the day. And I will be here with you every step of the way.