Wedding Would Haves & Must Haves:

Anthony Carbajal Photography

It’s no secret that preparing for your wedding can be a stressful time. It’s only natural that simple things go overlooked or are forgotten. I’ve complied a list of common wedding mistakes and suggestions from professionals and brides that have already taken the walk down the isle to help you dodge those wedding blunders on your big day!

• Wedding planning is a long and overwhelming process, full of difficult decisions. One thing to think about when making all these decisions is to first choose an overall theme you are trying to convey. Many brides get caught up in picking all of their favorites, but some forget to create a cohesive plan. Try carrying your theme throughout the ceremony and reception by incorporating it in your invitations, music, food, beverages, colors, and flowers.

• For the best results on the big day, work with flowers that are available and match the season of your wedding.

• Do something other than the typical sign-in book. Try a unique idea instead, like Jenga blocks, stones, thumbprints, or Polaroid photos (also a great excuse to have a photo booth).

• Wait a day before jet setting off on your honeymoon. You will be exhausted and probably hungover the day after your wedding, so why would you want to deal with the stress of airports or driving?!

• Your wedding reception should be about your guests! Spend the extra money on an open bar and plenty of food for the guests. They are there for you, so show them some love, too! -Katie H.

• Videographer: some say over-rated, others say it’s their biggest regret. You may think that having photos of the ceremony and reception are enough, but within the past few years videographers have become the must-have for your big day. -Katie H.

• Avoid grumpy guests and have them eat while you are out taking your photos. The photo-shoot always takes a little longer than expected anyways, and this way you’ll have plenty of time for mingling. -Alex R.

• Have a private wedding photo shoot with just you and the groom before the ceremony starts. These pictures are going to be ones you’ll want to look back on. If you were hoping to keep the dress a surprise, you can still have a photo-shoot with a blindfolded groom! -Alex R.

• You can never have too many family photos; just make sure to coordinate with everyone accordingly. You don’t want to look back later and realize Grandpa never made it to the photo-shoot. -Alex R.

• Brides: maybe provide a day-of kit with everything that your bridesmaids may need. This can double as your thank you favor to your girls, as well. (If the bride doesn’t have time to put together a kit, bridesmaids: this would be a great way to pick up some slack so that the bride doesn’t stress). -Brooke C.

• Invest in a DJ. This way you won’t have to worry about coordinating all the music and entertainment and you can have time with your family and friends. -Kristen F.

• Chair covers or embellishments are something that often goes overlooked. These are a great way to amp up the decorations and your venue without a lot of effort. -Kristen F.

• Don’t get too caught up in planning that you skip taking some time for you. Make sure to set aside some time to do your nails, or get them done. It’s also a good idea to bring all of your getting-ready essentials, including hair products, makeup for touch ups, and curling irons or straightener for some last minute fixes. -Mary F.

Feel free to comment below with your #1 wedding must-have! Good luck and happy planning!

XO.