On my wedding day, I was so nervous that I buttoned my jacket incorrectly without noticing, all because I was stressed out about getting to the location on time. The pastor and my best man noticed and gently pulled me aside to fix it.

Both my wife and I were a bit stressed when the rain came pouring down after saying “I do!” All the work we put in the night before and earlier that day was being washed away. Fortunately, we had family members and friends who stepped up the plate and helped to make things come together (thank God we had a “rain plan”).

I would not wish that kind of stress on anyone. Here are 3 things you can do to reduce stress on your wedding day:

    1. GET A WEDDING CO-ORDINATOR
      Over the years I’ve photographed weddings where the bride and groom are still working out details at the very last minute. Stressing themselves over simple things.

      Save yourself the headache and get a wedding coordinator. This doesn’t have to be a professional but a close friend or family member who is not in the wedding party. Someone who you trust, who takes initiative, who will get things done and who pays attention to details.

      Keep this person in the loop during the planning phase and let them hold the reins at least 2 days before the big day. Be explicit about your expectations, provide them with all the details they need and don’t micromanage. If you find yourself micromanaging then you’ve chosen the wrong person. Remember the aim is to be less stressed (be sure to include them when saying “Thanks” at the end of the festivities).All the weddings I’ve photographed with a co-ordinator tend to go smoother and encourage couples to get a coordinator during our consult.

    2. PASS YOUR PHONE TO YOUR RIGHT
      I was the best man at a friend’s wedding and his phone kept ringing. One of the calls he got was to ask him how his Uncle was to get to the wedding ceremony. I then insisted that he give me the phone. He did and I handled the matter.

      Pass your phone to your right-hand man or woman. Your best man or maid of honour. Let them act as a buffer between you and everyone who thinks they have to talk to you about the most “urgent” matter.When I meet with clients I ask for phone numbers of their best man and maid-of-honour. I even go as far as getting a phone number for the makeup artist and driver in the event I need to communicate with them.

    3. SAY “YES” TO SNACKS
      You’ve been at the hotel from God knows when getting ready with the squad. The ceremony was an hour and now it’s time to go take photos with the love of your life but all you can think about it hurrying the process along because you’re thirsty and hungry; you didn’t eat much ’cause anxiety “full yuh belly“.To prevent getting hangry pack a few snacks. It could be a few pieces of fruit, nuts or a protein bar with a bottle of water or coconut water. You know what fuels you, just pack enough to tide you over until dinner.

      Avoid snacks that are coated in sugar, cheese powders and food colouring. You want snacks that won’t mess up makeup and clothes.

      Also, pack a mint or gum if possible. Something that won’t stain teeth or tongue but leaves a pleasant smell after the snack and invites your spouse in for a refreshing kiss.

    When you are more relaxed this produces better photos because there is less on your mind. You are not wondering if Keisha remembered to carry your reception dress when she left the hotel or if Kirk picked up the boutonnieres for the rest of the groomsmen. You can focus on enjoying the moment with your spouse, family and friends as you begin a new chapter in your life.

    How do you plan on reducing stress on your wedding day?