Right next to wedding planners, wedding photographers have a solid grasp of what goes into a wedding. We’ve seen it all. As careful observers and detail-oriented professionals, we have a unique perspective on wedding planning. From keeping the groomsmen on task (😜) to executing backup plans during bad weather, we often find ourselves wearing all kinds of hats. So, I thought I’d let you in on a few insider wedding planning tips to get you started.

Pennsylvania Wedding at Beaver Train Station | Melissa + TJ

When I’m not traveling the country photographing elopements, I equally enjoy capturing gorgeous traditional weddings like Melissa and TJ’s Beaver Train Station wedding venue in Pittsburgh. It may have taken three rescheduled dates due to COVID, but in the end, they got their special wedding day…and more! It was nothing short of perfection – emotional, beautiful, and sophisticated, just as they envisioned. 

How did they pull it off in the middle of a pandemic? By following these helpful wedding tips:

4 Wedding Planning Tips to Pull Off Your Dream Wedding

Get Organized 

First, set a wedding date and create a tentative timeline for getting things done. Work your way from the large tasks to the more minor details. For instance, your venue will determine how many guests to invite, or vice versa, so prioritize what’s most important to you. You can find wedding checklists galore on Pinterest. Once you have a game plan, ask a trusted friend to check it out and see if you’ve missed anything. This is also a good time to determine your budget.

Coordinate Vendors

Next, get all your vendors in order. After reserving your venue, book the other big players to secure your date:

• Photographer/Videographer
• Officiant
• Florist
• Caterer & Wedding Cake 
• Event Planner/Coordinator
• Band/DJ
  

Establish a Backup Plan

Given these crazy times, I’d recommend looking into wedding insurance, which is fairly affordable and well worth the peace of mind. While booking vendors, try to get everyone on the same page as far as what to do if you have to move dates like Melissa and TJ. Check the contracts carefully regarding date changes. Wedding vendors understand the challenges that come with planning during a pandemic. Most will do their best to work with you and determine contingency plans upfront.

Have Fun!

With the big pieces in place, it’s time to have some fun planning all the pretty details, from attire to décor. In the end, remember that this is your big day. It’s easy to get caught up in the planning, but it’s your love that matters most. If something gets overlooked or is not quite right, it’s not the end of the world. All eyes will be on you, and you’ll have each other. Live in the moment and get lost in the experience, not the details. That’s what you’ll remember most. Enjoy your day to the fullest! 

As a wedding photographer, I remember the authentic emotions and interactions from each wedding more than the decorative details – every time – and I bet you will, too. Cheers!

Make Your Wedding Vision a Reality with Mariah

Want to see more of our documentary-style wedding and elopement photography? Be sure to meet the team and check out our portfolio and blog pages for more inspiration and wedding planning tips. Connect with Mariah here to get started!