I know you have probably heard this before, but your wedding day is going to go by FAST. With the months (or years!) of planning, it will still surprise you just how fast it all goes once you’re living it. While it’s really important to think of the guest experience and creating a beautiful atmosphere for your big day, it’s just as important to think of yourselves by creating a day that will allow you to be truly present in all of the important moments.
Your timeline plays a HUGE role in making sure all of these moments are captured, but also allowing room for you to sit back and soak it all in. Giving yourself extra time leaves room for you to breathe — and if you’re feeling relaxed and not rushed, you’re also able to enjoy these moments as they come. Time is one of the biggest factors in getting incredible wedding day photos and having the best wedding experience!
I’ve compiled a list of my favorite wedding day moments! These are the ones I love seeing my couples experience on their wedding day, but every wedding day is different and it all comes down to what you prioritize and want to remember.
Wedding Day Prep
Getting ready with your favorite people, or taking some quiet time to reflect by yourself, is just the start of an incredible wedding day! From popping that bubbly, to getting in your wedding attire and your family member making adjustments to your suit or dress— these are some of the final moments before the day really starts to unfold.
Photos by Cat Deline Photography & Mel Kay Photography
The Reveals
One of the sweetest parts of a wedding day are the reveals, or “first looks” with family or your wedding party. Let your dad cry as he sees you in your wedding attire for the first time, or bask in the energy of your wedding party once they FINALLY see you in your wedding outfit!
When you are all dressed and ready to go, things start feeling very real. Take a few minutes to capture an emotional moment with the people you love most, whether that is your Grammy, parent, or favorite aunt- they want to share this special time with you!
Photos by XOXO Molly Jane, & Jennifer Nolan Photography, & Images by Bri
The First Look
The first look, if you choose to have one, is truly one of my favorite moments of the day. Your photographer will scout the perfect location that allows the two of you to share a private moment together and give you all of the time you need to take these moments in. This is also a great time to read private vows, chat about the start of your day, or practice your dip! My favorite part of a first look is that you can feel the rush of excitement and any nerves fall away the instant you see each other- this can be especially helpful if you are a bit shy about having all eyes on you when you walk down the aisle for the ceremony. Having a first look and portraits can also help you get to cocktail hour faster!
Photos by Jared Ladia Photography, Addy Rae Photography & Images by Bri
Just Married Glow
Walking down the aisle, even if you’ve already done a first look, is honestly so magical! The moment you finally get down the aisle is always a big highlight —go down slowly, look at your future spouse waiting for you at the end, and take it all in. This is the calming moment before you have family photos, cocktail hour, your reception entrance, and dinner, so make sure you savor every second of the ceremony- it goes by so fast!
Photos by Madeline Serio Photography, Hannah Mink Photography, & Susan Stripling Photography
Golden Hour
With all of the excitement of the day, this is one of the best times of day to sneak away, just the two of you! The time before sunset gives the most amazing natural light, and all of those warm, glowy sunset looks that are among our couples favorite portraits from their wedding day. By this point in the day, after the pre-wedding ceremony jitters and family photos are finished, you’ll be feeling more relaxed, which allows your photographer to capture a few more magical moments of you two in your just-married glow!
Photos by Cat Deline Photography, Jessica Nazarova Photography, & Nessa K Photography
Party time!
Last, but certainly not least . . . I love when you and your guests let loose and bring the party! These moments are pure FUN and take the standard “people danced and had fun” reception photos to the next level. Throw in some props, have the band play your favorite bar song from college, have your planner adjust the uplighting, grab a drink and just let go- these photos are meant to be fun and candid and show you and your guests
Photos by Kyla Jeanette Photography & Cat Deline Photography
For more images from our incredible couples on their big days, view our Portfolio!
If you loved this post, check out our post on 6 Things Your Guest Will Actually Notice On Your Wedding Day!
