The Do’s and Don’ts on Your Wedding Day: Minimize Stress and Maximize Enjoyment - From the Eyes of a Wedding Officiant

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, filled with love, celebration, and cherished memories. To ensure your day goes smoothly and is as stress-free as possible, here’s a list of essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

The Do's

1. Do Plan Ahead

Preparation is key. Ensure your timeline is finalized well in advance, and share it with key vendors, your bridal party, and anyone involved in the logistics. This keeps everyone on the same page.

2. Do Eat and Stay Hydrated

With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to eat. Start your day with a nourishing breakfast and sip water throughout the day to stay energized and refreshed.

3. Do Delegate Responsibilities

You can’t do everything yourself. Assign tasks to trusted friends or family members so you can focus on enjoying the moment. A wedding planner or day-of coordinator is invaluable for this, and ask your wedding officiant for advice.

4. Do Take a Moment for Yourself

Amid the whirlwind, carve out a few minutes alone or with your partner to breathe and soak it all in. These quiet moments are often the most memorable.

5. Do Prepare for Weather

If your wedding is outdoors, have a backup plan for rain or extreme heat. Umbrellas, tents, or even cozy blankets can save the day.

6. Do Practice Gratitude

Expressing thanks to everyone who made your day special—from vendors to guests—goes a long way in creating a positive and loving atmosphere.

7. Do Have a Kit for Emergencies

Pack a wedding-day survival kit with items like safety pins, stain remover, pain relievers, and extra makeup for touch-ups. You never know what might pop up! Even ask vendors such as wedding officiants or planners, if they fall ill - do they have a back up?

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Things may not go perfectly, and that’s okay. Focus on the big picture—celebrating love—and let minor mishaps slide.

2. Don’t Try New Beauty Routines

Your wedding day isn’t the time to experiment with a new skincare product or hairstyle. Stick to what you know works to avoid surprises.

3. Don’t Micromanage

Trust your vendors and bridal party to handle their roles. Constant checking can add unnecessary stress. You hired a planner for a reason.. and your wedding officiant is there to walk you through a ceremony, take a deep breath and enjoy.

4. Don’t Forget About Your Partner

It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but remember to connect with your partner throughout the day. It’s your special moment together.

5. Don’t Skip Comfortable Shoes

While your fancy heels may look stunning, consider bringing a pair of comfortable flats or sneakers for dancing or walking between locations.

6. Don’t Overindulge in Alcohol

It’s tempting to celebrate with plenty of champagne, but pacing yourself ensures you’re fully present and able to enjoy every moment.

7. Don’t Lose Sight of the Purpose

With all the planning and festivities, don’t lose sight of the real reason for the day: celebrating the love between you and your partner.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day is a unique reflection of your love story, and no matter what happens, it will be perfect in its own way. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll set yourself up for a day full of joy, laughter, and memories to treasure forever.

What are you stressed out about for your wedding day? Share them in the comments below or send me an email at blake@kbcollective.ca so I can help!