Tips For Planning Your Wedding Day
Planning your wedding day is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—parts of the entire journey. From coordinating vendors to managing timelines, every decision impacts how smoothly the day unfolds, especially when it comes to photography. Many brides believe that hiring a wedding coordinator guarantees a flawless experience. While a good coordinator can be incredibly helpful, it’s important to understand their limitations. Not all coordinators are created equal, and some may not be as hands-on or detail-oriented as you expect. That’s why it’s essential to vet your planner carefully, clarify their responsibilities, and ensure their fee aligns with the value they bring. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and thoughtful planning is key to making sure your photographer has the time, space, and light to capture it beautifully.
Hair & Make-up Timing
Hair and makeup delays are one of the most common reasons brides run late. To avoid this, schedule your beauty team to finish at least one hour before your first photo. If portraits begin at 3:00 PM, aim to be photo-ready by 2:00 PM. This buffer gives you time to relax, breathe, and enjoy the morning with your bridal party. And yes—your hair should last until midnight. If your stylist can’t guarantee that, keep looking.
You only have one wedding day. Don’t waste half your morning getting hair and make-up done. Schedule your hairstylist and makeup artist to show up as early as 7 or 8AM. If they cannot guarantee your hair will last all day then get somebody else. If they know what they are doing then your hair should last until midnight.
Transportation Matters
Whether you’ve booked a limo or a vintage car, make sure your driver knows the exact schedule and directions. A late pickup or rushed drop-off can cut into your photography time. Confirm everything in writing and allow extra time for traffic or unexpected delays.
Family Formals Without the Chaos
Family portraits can be smooth and joyful—or chaotic and delayed. If you know certain relatives tend to run late, tell them to arrive 30–45 minutes earlier than scheduled. Send a personal message with the time, location, and directions. A warm note like “We love you and can’t wait to have you in our photos” goes a long way in making people feel included and accountable.
Designate a Point Person for the Photographer
Your photographer will likely have questions throughout the day—about family members, timeline shifts, or location logistics. Instead of fielding these yourself, assign a trusted bridesmaid, sibling, or planner to be the go-to contact. This person should know the schedule, key players, and any special requests you’ve made. It keeps you stress-free and ensures your photographer can work efficiently without chasing down answers. A well-informed point person is a secret weapon for smooth wedding photography.
