When you think about wedding planning, your mind probably jumps straight to the big decisions—finding the perfect dress, choosing a venue, booking your dream photographer. But it’s often the smaller details that make the biggest difference in how smoothly your day runs and how stress-free it feels.
After photographing weddings for years, I’ve seen couples feel completely at ease because they planned for these things—and others who wished they had thought of them sooner. My hope is that this little list helps you prepare so you can spend your wedding day soaking it all in, not worrying about logistics.
Vendor Meals (and When They Happen)
Your vendor team is with you all day, working hard to make your experience seamless. Including them in your meal count is such a thoughtful (and often necessary!) detail. But it’s not just about if they get a meal—it’s also about when.
For example: if your speeches happen during dinner, your photographer will still be working and won’t be able to eat at the same time as guests. Having your planner or catering team coordinate a time for your vendors to eat ensures they’re fueled up and ready to give you their best throughout the night.
Transportation Between Locations
It’s easy to assume everyone will “just figure it out,” but making a plan for transportation is a game-changer. If your ceremony and reception are at different places, think about how you, your wedding party, and family will get from one to the other. Whether it’s shuttles, carpools, or a party bus, arranging this ahead of time keeps the day moving smoothly and ensures no one gets left scrambling.
A Rain Plan
No one hopes for rain on their wedding day, but having a backup plan is essential for peace of mind. Whether that’s reserving an indoor space, renting a tent, or having clear umbrellas on hand, a little preparation goes a long way.
And here’s a secret from a photographer: some of the most romantic, memorable photos come from rainy days. If you’ve planned ahead, rain doesn’t have to be stressful—it can actually make your day feel even more magical.
Getting Ready Details (For Both of You)
Your getting-ready space sets the tone for the day. Choosing a room with natural light, keeping it clutter-free, and even having small touches like matching robes can make those photos feel calm and beautiful.
But here’s something many couples don’t think about: the groom’s details. If he’s not arriving until later, make sure you have the items you want photographed (shoes, tie, cufflinks, boutonniere, cologne, etc.) ready and waiting. That way they can be included in your detail photos right alongside the bride’s.
A Cleanup Plan
After the last dance and the sparkler exit, everyone will be ready to head home. But someone still has to handle packing up décor, gifts, and leftover food. Deciding on a cleanup plan ahead of time (whether through your venue, planner, or hired staff) means your family and friends can spend the night celebrating with you instead of stacking chairs and gathering centerpieces at midnight.
Your wedding day doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours. But a little preparation for these often-overlooked details can make a world of difference. The more you plan ahead, the more present you can be.
Because at the end of the day, that’s what matters most: you, your love story, and the joy of celebrating surrounded by the people who mean the most.
