Top 20 Wedding Day Tips from an Oklahoma Photographer
Kayla Bartek Photography | Top 20 Wedding Day Tips from an Oklahoma Photographer
Top 20 Wedding Day Tips from an Oklahoma Photographer
As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of witnessing hundreds of love stories unfold—each unique, beautiful, and full of unforgettable moments. Along the way, I’ve picked up a few pro tips that can help your wedding day run smoother, feel more relaxed, and result in truly stunning photos. Whether you're weeks away from “I do” or just starting to plan, here are my top 20 wedding day tips to make your day the best it can be.
1. Plan a Calm Morning
Start your day with calm music, light snacks, and people who bring you peace. It sets the tone for everything that follows.
2. Have a Realistic Timeline
Work with your photographer and planner to build in buffer time. Things always take longer than expected—and rushing kills the joy.
3. Keep the Getting Ready Space Tidy
A clutter-free space = cleaner, prettier getting-ready photos. Designate a corner for bags, snacks, and hangers.
4. Gather Your Details Ahead of Time
Put your invitation, rings, shoes, bouquet, additional jewelry, and heirlooms in one spot so your photographer can start with flatlay photos right away. (here are some additional details I have seen from other brides to incorporate in these photos: vows, hairpiece, printed photos of couple, garter, perfume/cologne, boutonniere, groom's tie, grooms hat, something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue)
5. Do a First Look (OR SOMETHING TOTALLY DIFFERENT)
A first look is a quiet moment just for you two—and it helps calm nerves and ease the timeline for more portraits pre-ceremony. BUT! There is a different option for the brides that really don't want to be seen before she's walking down the aisle... (this is what I did!) Try a First Touch!!! This still allows you to have an intimate moment with your ALMOST Spouse minutes before you say I do! Stand on either side of a wall from one another, on either side of a tree or even back-to-back with the groom turned away when the bride approaches. The desire to turn and look at each other's faces is so real!
6. Practice Your First Kiss
Seriously! Talk about how long you’ll hold it, whether you want a dip, or if you prefer a forehead kiss after. A little planning helps avoid awkwardness. He may be ready to go to town and you'd prefer to keep it classy in front of your entire family. Or vice versa!
7. Hydrate and Snack Throughout the Day
It’s easy to forget, but water and a few bites keep your energy up (and prevent fainting at the altar—yes, it happens!). Prepare the day before even. Drink plenty of water and/or electrolytes the day before your wedding, then day of, drinking plenty of water won't be an issue.
8. Break in Your Wedding Shoes
Wear them around the house beforehand and make sure to bring a backup pair of comfy emergency shoes for the reception. Blisters don’t belong at your party!
9. Build in Alone Time
Schedule 10-15 minutes after the ceremony or sunset portraits to just be together. The day flies by—you deserve a moment to soak it in.
10. Let Someone Else Be the Point Person
Assign a trusted friend or planner to handle questions, vendors, or small problems so you don’t have to stress. I do have a list of recommendations for Wedding Planners here.
11. Have an Emergency Kit on Hand
Think fashion tape, safety pins, pain reliever, a mini sewing kit, stain remover, mints—tiny items can be lifesavers. I will mention, if you hire me as your photographer, I keep most of everything like this on-hand!
12. Practice Your Vows (Even If They’re Private)
Read them out loud ahead of time. It helps with pacing, nerves, and makes your words even more powerful. It even helps control emotions some come wedding day.
13. Embrace Imperfection
Something will go “wrong”—and that’s okay. Rain, wind, a missing boutonniere... it all becomes part of the story. Learning to pivot will become your saving grace. When something goes wrong that is out of your control, let it roll off your back and keep moving with a smile on your face and love in your heart.
14. Do a Dress (or Suit) Rehearsal
Try everything on together—including accessories—to make sure it fits, feels good, and is photo-ready.
15. Trust Your Vendor Team
You chose them for a reason. Let go of the micromanaging and lean into the experience—they’ve got your back! And to watch all of your planning come together during this special day is truly remarkable. Soak it in, Babe!
16. Don’t Skip Sunset Photos
Golden hour light is magic. Plan 10-15 minutes after dinner to sneak out with your photographer—it’s always worth it and these could possibly be your favorite photos from the whole day!
17. Keep Your Inner Circle Small During Prep
Too many people in the room can feel chaotic. Keep it to those who truly calm and support you. Even assign one person to play security if people try to come in that aren't on the list. Everyone can see you after the "I Do's."
18. Hold Hands and Stay Close
It’s easy to get pulled in different directions. Stay physically close to each other—Bride + Groom—your presence to one another becomes calming and grounding.
19. Assign Someone to Bustle the Dress
Make sure at least one person knows how to do it. Practice ahead of time to avoid delays.
20. Soak It All In
Pause. Breathe. Look around. This is your day—and it deserves to be felt deeply, not just documented.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day is about more than perfection—it’s about presence, love, and celebration. With a little planning and a lot of heart, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. Need help creating a photo-friendly timeline or want a photographer who’ll walk with you through every step? Let’s chat!
Talk soon, Kayla ❤
Song of the day:
A Sunday Kind of Love - Etta James
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