We all do it. Ask for advice from others, then turn around and do the exact opposite.
My wedding day was one of the few times in my life that I actually followed advice, and I'm so glad I did. :)
Some of the best advice I received (and followed!):
1. Stop!
As often as you can, just stop. Stop whatever you are doing for 10-20 seconds and just take it all in. You will be amazed at how much you end up remembering from the long day, and it won't seem like a big blur.
While I was getting ready I made it a point to watch what was going on all around me. I was in a beautiful hotel room with my best friends and special women from my family. I didn't want to miss it.
2. Eat!
Everyone warns you about this. Don't you think it's for a reason?!?!
It is, so don't underestimate it. Plus, if you do it right after the ceremony, while your guests enjoy cocktail hour, you will get to enjoy some alone time with your new husband. B fought me on this because he didn't want to miss out on cocktail hour, but I stood my ground. We ended up having some much needed alone time, and he thanked me for making him eat. :)
We fit a quick snack in during pictures before the ceremony. NYC pretzel, anyone? :P
3. Delegate!
People WANT to help you on your big day, so let them. It will save you from running around trying to do everything yourself. If something comes up while you're getting your hair done, ask one of your bridesmaids to do it. My vows needed to be rewritten in pen so I'd be able to read them, and I couldn't do it while getting my hair and makeup done. So I asked my MOH to do it. It was a HUGE help, and she didn't mind at all.
My Maid of Honor and now sister-in-law Sandra rewrote my vows.
4. Let it go!
Things are going to go wrong. Period.
You must realize this before the day comes and be prepared to let it go. Do not let anything ruin your special day! In the grand sceme of things, the day really isn't about anything other than you marrying your best friend. Remember that.
B couldn't find his shoes! He ended up wearing loafers, which was fine. :) It bothered me for about two seconds, then I forgot all about it!
So the fire alarm went off a few times in the middle of a dance set. Big deal! As long as there isn't an actual fire and all your guests are safe, who cares?
The day will have it's share of hiccups but as long as you have fun, so will everyone else. Don't be a crazy bride that runs around trying to fix everything. Just have FUN!
On my wedding day, I made a conscious effort to follow this advice, and it made a world of difference. I was calm, I remember so much, and I had a blast! At the end of the day, nothing should ruin this incredible event, so don't allow it to happen.
Here's some more of my favorite advice from brides.com, weddingchannel.com. Also, a great piece from David Tutera for planning your big day.
Do you have great words of wisdom for brides? What was the best piece of advice you received on your wedding day? Is there advice that you got and wished you would have followed?
Please comment and share with us.
Wishing you all glamorous planning,
xoxo
-Lindsey (Nina's Newlywed)
Lindsey,
Gorgeous photos and great advice!
xx
Posted by: Mary Robertson | Nov 08, 2010 at 08:36 AM