13 Simple Ways to Stay Present on Your Wedding Day

Let’s be real here, you’ve probably heard it before but if not, let me tell you, your wedding day will go by like a flash. Whilst photographs are going to help keep that moment/memory alive, they are not a substitute for your memories. The reality is, a photographer doesn’t “capture your memories” - Unless you’re experiencing some weird outer body experience, what you’re looking at are moments from a different perspective and sometimes, even moments you didn’t see at all.

With so much happening, it’s easy to feel like the day is over in the blink of an eye. Which is why I believe that staying present is about truly experiencing the magic of your day.

These 13 simple tips will hopefully help you savour even single moment, forging them into memories like concrete.

1. Start the Day with Intention

Take a moment in the morning to set an intention for your wedding day. Spend a few minutes reflecting on what’s most important to you: perhaps it’s the love you’re celebrating, or the people who are there to support you, and the memories you want to create.

Setting an intention doesn’t have to be complicated. It could be as simple as saying to yourself, “Today, I will embrace the moment and let go of stress.” This small act can help you start the day feeling grounded and positive.

2. Embrace a Calm Morning Routine

Easier said than done right?!

But try to avoid rushing through your morning preparations. Allow sufficient time to relax, eat something, and soak in the excitement of what’s coming ahead. Play soothing music, allocate tasks to family and/or friends or maybe consider the lost art and spend a few minutes journaling your thoughts and feelings. There’s an awful lot to be said about writing things down.

3. Trust Your Vendors and Delegate Tasks

Your wedding suppliers are there to make your day run smoothly. Trust them to handle the details and for everything else, as mentioned above, delegate responsibilities to your family and fiends. This allows you to focus on enjoying the day without added stress.

4. Limit Phone Use

Ooooo this one might sting a little for some. But get someone else to deal with calls/texts and consider stepping away from your phone altogether. This helps you stay in the present moment and grounded to what’s happening right in front of you.

5. Focus on Your Senses

If you truly want to remain in the present and grounded then anchor yourself by paying attention to your senses. In the same way you would do so if having an anxiety attack, there is a lot of science behind using all your senses to remain grounded. Notice the texture of your dress, the scent of your perfume, the sound of your guests’ laughter, and the warmth of your partner’s hand. All of this will contribute to forming fear stronger memories.

6. Share Some Private Time with Your Partner

If your Photographer hasn’t spoken to you about this in order to get some couple portraits, then it’s something you should be thinking about regardless. Plan a little down time together after the ceremony. It makes for a perfect breather, this intimate time allows you to connect and reflect on what’s just happened…. YOU’RE MARRIED!!

7. Let Go of Perfection

I know what some of you might be thinking, is this guy for real?! We’ve been planning this for months!!!

Trust me, after photographing over 100 weddings I can tell you now, no wedding is flawless, and that’s part of its charm. Expect the unexpected but focus on the love and joy surrounding you. After all, the mishaps often become the stories you laugh about later.

If something doesn’t go as planned, remind yourself that these moments add character to your story. Instead of stressing, find the humor or silver lining. I promise you there is one.

8. Stay Hydrated and Well Fed.

It’s far too easy to forget to eat or drink in the excitement, I can’t tell you how many wedding’s I’ve come back from then proceeded to drink litre’s of water (ok, soft drink) to recoup hydration and I’m not even the one getting married. Staying hydrated and nourished ensures you have the energy to fully enjoy your day.

9. Use Physical Touch to Ground Yourself

Hug loved ones, hold hands with your partner, or even touch your wedding dress/suit. This will help to bring yourself back to the present moment. Physical touch is a powerful tool for staying grounded.

10. Slow Down During Key Events

I don’t think I could stress this one enough… Walk slowly down the aisle, take your time delivering your speech, savor every step of your first dance even if it is a two-step. Slowing down helps you take in these meaningful moments fully.

11. Trust the Timeline but Don’t Stress About It

When it comes down to the day itself, know that you have done everything you possibly can to make it the perfect day. I appreciate that staying on schedule is important, it’s more important that you don’t let minor delays overshadow the joy of your day. Focus on the moment, rather than the clock.

12. Reflect at the End of the Night

Before the day ends and your head hits the pillow, take a quiet moment with your partner to recount your favorite parts of the day. Admittedly, if you’ve had a skinful this might be quite the challenge… it’ll also probably be more fun. But this reflection cements those memories and creates a meaningful close to your wedding… Unless you really are drunk in which case, you’ll possibly not even remember the conversation.

13. Remember the Bigger Picture

Your wedding day is a celebration of your love and connection with family and friends. By focusing on what truly matters, the relationships and emotions, you’ll come away with memories that hopefully last a lifetime.

As always, thanks for reading. I appreciate you.

Rich Orange10 February 2025planningComment