10 EXPERT TIPS FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY TO HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE
Your wedding day is finally here! After months (or even years) of planning, it’s time to bring your vision to life, celebrate your love, and create unforgettable memories. But let’s be honest—as exciting as it is, those last-minute nerves and never-ending to-do lists can feel overwhelming. Take a deep breath; we’ve got you covered!
So, what can you do to ensure your big day is as fabulous as you are? Read on for our top tips on how to stay calm, feel fantastic, and have the best day ever—whether you’re planning a traditional celebration, a modern LGBTQIA+ ceremony, or something wonderfully unique!
1. START THE DAY WITH A RELAXING ROUTINE: SET THE TONE FOR JOY
Your wedding morning can set the vibe for the entire day, so why not make it as serene and positive as possible? Starting with a grounding routine—think gentle yoga, meditation, or simply five minutes of deep breathing—can help centre you emotionally and physically. Choose rituals that bring you joy and calm, even if it’s something as simple as dancing to your favourite playlist or journaling your thoughts.
Consider creating a peaceful environment in your getting-ready space. Dim the lights, play soft background music, or even light some candles if the venue allows. Surround yourself with scents and sounds that feel comforting. Ask your wedding party to avoid loud conversations or any talk of logistics during this time. This is your moment to set intentions for the day and embrace the excitement of what’s to come.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
A peaceful start reduces stress hormones and enhances your mood, making you feel more present and engaged throughout the day.
Carving out quiet moments allows you to reflect on your journey as a couple and the significance of the day ahead.
Creating a serene space helps ease tension, keeping pre-wedding jitters under control.
TEDDY’S TAKE:
"Imagine this: soft music, a cosy robe, and the scent of your favourite candle filling the room. Starting your day with simple pleasures puts you in the right headspace to enjoy every moment that follows. And hey, if you want to kick things off with a dance party in your PJs—we’re all for it!"
2. FUEL UP WITH A DELICIOUS BREAKFAST: KEEP THAT ENERGY UP
It’s easy to forget to eat when there are a million things happening, but skipping breakfast can lead to low energy and irritability. Treat your wedding day like an athletic event—you’ll need fuel to keep you going! Opt for nutrient-dense, light foods that are easy on the stomach, like avocado toast, smoothie bowls, or overnight oats. Keep sugary or greasy foods at bay to avoid crashes later in the day.
Don’t just focus on yourself—encourage your wedding party to eat, too. Create a communal breakfast experience to share the excitement and bond before the day officially kicks off. This could be a sit-down breakfast or a grazing table set up with fresh fruit, pastries, and protein-rich snacks.
If nerves make it hard to eat, consider small bites throughout the morning. Protein bars, nuts, and granola bites are excellent portable options. Staying hydrated is just as important—keep water bottles or herbal teas within reach to ensure you’re well-hydrated and ready for the festivities ahead.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Eating a balanced breakfast stabilises blood sugar, ensuring you feel alert, grounded, and ready for all the day’s excitement.
It prevents those pesky ‘hanger’ moments, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without distraction.
Staying hydrated and nourished prevents fatigue and helps you maintain that wedding glow all day long.
TEDDY’S TIP:
"Create a grazing station for your wedding party! Include light bites like fruit, nuts, yoghurt, and mini pastries. It’s a fun way to make sure everyone’s fed and photo-ready! Trust me, no one wants to hear a rumbling stomach during the vows."
3. CREATE A WEDDING DAY TIMELINE: STAY ON TRACK WITHOUT THE STRESS
The secret to a stress-free wedding day? A detailed timeline that keeps everything flowing like clockwork. From hair and makeup appointments to the first dance, having a clear plan ensures everyone knows their role and what’s happening next. Share the timeline with your wedding party, vendors, and any VIP guests to keep things running smoothly.
Consider breaking the timeline into segments—pre-ceremony, ceremony, and reception—so it’s easier to manage. Leave buffer times between key events to allow for unexpected delays (like that flower girl who decides to nap just before walking down the aisle). Include moments for outfit changes, photos, and even a five-minute breather for yourself.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
A well-organised schedule minimises confusion and last-minute questions.
It ensures that important moments aren’t rushed or forgotten, giving you time to breathe and enjoy.
Buffer times allow flexibility and keep things feeling relaxed rather than frantic.
TEDDY’S TIP:
"Designate a ‘timeline champion’—whether it’s your wedding planner, sibling, or bestie—to oversee the schedule. That way, you’re free to relax and revel in the joy of the day! Also, print out a few extra copies for the wedding party; you’d be surprised how often people forget the plan. Remember, timelines are guides, not shackles—leave room for spontaneity and unexpected moments of magic."
4. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE ENERGY: KEEP THE VIBES HIGH
Your wedding morning isn’t the time for unnecessary stress or tension. The energy in the room will set the tone for your day, so curate your getting-ready crew wisely. Choose people who uplift you, make you laugh, and bring calm, positive vibes. If someone tends to add stress or negativity, it’s okay to kindly (but firmly) ask them to take on a less involved role.
Consider who will be part of your pre-ceremony experience. This could be a mix of your wedding party, close family, or even just one or two besties. Don’t forget to include those who know how to keep things light-hearted but are also great at lending a helping hand if needed.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Positive surroundings create a ripple effect, boosting your mood and calming any pre-wedding jitters.
Laughter and joy are infectious, helping you stay relaxed and focused on the beauty of the day.
A relaxed environment ensures everyone, from your wedding party to your vendors, feels at ease and ready to celebrate with you.
TEDDY’S TAKE:
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that a good hype squad is worth its weight in gold! Picture your closest friends cracking jokes and hyping you up—exactly the energy you need before you walk down the aisle. And if anyone brings unnecessary drama? Politely show them the snack table.”
5. BE PRESENT: SOAK IN EVERY SPECIAL MOMENT
It’s no secret that wedding days go by in a flash. One moment, you’re getting ready; the next, you’re twirling on the dance floor. The best way to ensure the day doesn’t blur into one big memory is by intentionally pausing to take it all in.
Make a conscious effort to ground yourself during key moments—like the first look, exchanging vows, or walking down the aisle. Look around the room, notice the details, and let yourself feel the emotions. Even a few seconds of mindfulness can help anchor these moments in your memory.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Practising presence enriches the experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the day.
It reduces overwhelm and keeps you focused on the celebration rather than the logistics.
You’ll create clearer, more vivid memories to cherish for years to come.
TEDDY’S TIP:
“Right before you step into the ceremony space, take three deep breaths. Look at the faces of your loved ones, listen to the music, and just be. Those few seconds will stay with you long after the day is over.”
6. DELEGATE AND LET GO: TRUST YOUR TEAM
Let’s face it—trying to micromanage every detail on your wedding day isn’t fun (or necessary). You’ve planned, prepped, and double-checked every box. Now, it’s time to step back and let your team take over. Whether it’s your wedding planner, coordinator, or a trusted friend, hand over responsibilities and trust them to keep everything on track.
Make a clear list of tasks that need attention and assign them ahead of time. From ensuring the flowers arrive on schedule to coordinating last-minute seating changes, these small jobs can easily be handled by someone else. Don’t forget to communicate your preferences clearly, but then let it go!
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Delegating tasks frees you to fully engage in the joy and excitement of the day.
It reduces the mental load, allowing you to relax and focus on being present with your partner and guests.
Empowering others fosters a sense of shared celebration and involvement.
TEDDY’S TAKE:
“You’ve done all the hard work—now let someone else handle the logistics! When the DJ calls for speeches or the cake needs cutting, let your coordinator or bestie handle it. Your only job? Enjoy the magic unfolding around you.”
7. PLAN FOR THE UNEXPECTED: EMBRACE IMPERFECTIONS WITH GRACE
Even the most meticulously planned weddings encounter a few surprises. Maybe the weather takes a turn, or someone forgets their speech. Rather than stressing over these hiccups, embrace them! Sometimes, the unexpected moments—like an impromptu toast or a flower girl’s adorable misstep—become the most cherished memories.
Mentally prepare yourself for small detours and approach the day with a flexible mindset. If something doesn’t go exactly as planned, laugh it off and keep moving forward. Your guests won’t notice minor issues unless you do, so keep smiling and stay present in the joy of the moment.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Accepting imperfections keeps stress levels low and encourages you to enjoy the day as it naturally unfolds.
Unexpected moments often add personality and charm to the celebration.
You’ll walk away with great stories that reflect the uniqueness of your wedding.
TEDDY’S TIP:
“If the cake topples or the best person accidentally roasts you mid-speech—laugh it off! These moments make the day feel real and relatable. Plus, a little spontaneity can make your wedding unforgettable.”
8. TAKE TIME FOR JUST THE TWO OF YOU: A MOMENT TO CONNECT
In the midst of the celebration, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of guests, photos, and festivities. But remember, this day is about you and your partner. Make time to step away from the crowd, even if just for ten minutes, to share a private moment together.
Whether it’s a first look before the ceremony or a quiet walk after the vows, these brief pauses allow you to reconnect and soak in the significance of the day. Consider scheduling a sunset photo session away from guests or enjoying a private dinner before rejoining the reception.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
These intimate moments help ground you as a couple, reminding you why you’re celebrating in the first place.
Stepping away from the spotlight gives you a break from the buzz, helping you recharge.
Private moments often become some of the most treasured memories from the day.
TEDDY’S TAKE:
“I always suggest sneaking away for a few quiet minutes post-ceremony. Hold hands, breathe it all in, and just be. Your wedding celebrates your love—make sure to honour that by being together.”
9. CAPTURE THE REAL MOMENTS: EMBRACE AUTHENTICITY OVER PERFECTION
While posed portraits are stunning, candid, unfiltered moments truly capture the essence of your wedding day. Those teary-eyed hugs, bursts of laughter, and wild dance floor moves are the snapshots that will take you right back to the emotions of the day.
Work with your photographer to prioritise capturing these real moments. Let them know you value spontaneity and raw emotion over perfectly polished shots. Encourage guests to relax and be themselves in front of the camera, and don’t shy away from embracing the beautiful chaos that weddings bring.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Candid photos reflect the day's genuine energy, love, and excitement.
Looking back at authentic moments will evoke stronger emotional memories.
You’ll end up with a more diverse and unique wedding album.
TEDDY’S TIP:
“Trust your photographer and let go of the need to control every photo. The best shots are often the ones you didn’t plan for—like your partner’s face during the vows or the flower kid twirling during the ceremony!”
10. DANCE, LAUGH, AND CELEBRATE: LET GO AND ENJOY EVERY MOMENT
Above all else, remember that this day is yours. Let go of any lingering stress, hit the dance floor, and savour every second. Dance like no one’s watching, laugh with your favourite people and indulge in all the joy that comes with celebrating love.
By fully immersing yourself in the experience, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime—not just for you but also for your guests. When they see you having fun, they’ll follow suit, creating a vibrant, celebratory atmosphere that everyone will remember fondly.
💡 WHY IT WORKS:
Your energy and excitement set the tone for the entire celebration.
Focusing on joy leaves you with lasting, happy memories.
Letting go and celebrating creates an unforgettable experience for everyone.
TEDDY’S TAKE:
“At the end of the day, weddings are about love, connection, and joy. So grab your partner, kick off your shoes, and dance your heart out—because this is your moment to shine.”
FINAL THOUGHTS: YOUR WEDDING DAY, YOUR WAY
Your wedding day is about celebrating your love story, so make it a day that’s joyful, relaxed, and unapologetically you. Follow these tips to keep things calm and fabulous, and remember: the most important thing is to savour every moment with the person you’re about to say “I do” to! Need a hand creating a wedding day that’s as unique and vibrant as your love? Get in touch with Married By A Teddy today, and let’s make your dream day a reality!