Getting Ready To Tie The Knot? Tips For a Stress-Free Wedding Day

In case you didn't know, I recently tied the knot! Insert applause and confetti emojis here.
Our day went perfectly and it was everything we had ever hoped for. I'm grateful that our wedding was mostly stress-free, but I understand that isn't the case for every couple. Reflecting on my planning process and looking back on the day, I put together some handy tips that helped to get me down the aisle.

My best friend Jessica Rediker, happens to be a phenomenal photographer. She stopped by while I was getting ready to walk down the aisle and snapped a few photos. I've posed in front of her lens on several occasions, so these are incredibly special to me. I just had to share these beautiful images with you all!

1. Stop Planning a Week Before

It's hard to resist that 'one last thing' urge that happens the week before (and sometimes the week of). I can't count how many garage sale signs I passed by, thinking of potential vintage treasures I could score for decor. Honestly, if you don't have it by that point, you probably don't need it.

Save this week for any last minute logistical details, like confirming hair and makeup appointments, finalizing the schedule with your photographer, and having your last meeting with the officiant.

2. Practice Your Makeup

This is especially applicable to those of us who choose to do their own bridal beauty look. I felt more comfortable leaving the makeup application in my own hands, mostly because I enjoy doing my own makeup (hello, why do you think I write this blog? haha!).

That said, I'm not a pro by any means. So I wanted to make sure my glam would be on point. I probably painted the same face on at least 5 times before the wedding, just it was consistent, it would last all night, and that I liked the way it looked.

Some other key bridal beauty tidbits I can offer:

-Don't highlight your nose. It will look funny in photos.

-Stick with something timeless and classic like a soft taupe smoky eye and nude lip.

-Wear waterproof mascara!

3. Comfort is Key

It seems that everyone is in the business to make the bride as uncomfortable as possible. I passed up every offer of Spanx because I didn't want to feel like a stuffed sausage.

I was fortunate enough to find  a dress that fit perfectly off-the-rack, so I needed very minimal alterations. All I wanted was a bit of cleavage that the dress did not otherwise lend me. Rather than spend more time and money on the seamstress adding cups, I simply picked up a good strapless bra that I was comfortable in. Mind you, it took a few different fitting room sessions to find my match, it was worth it to find something I loved and wanted to wear.

If you feel more comfortable in shapewear, all the power to you. Everyone has their preference, and it's ultimately your decision to make!

4. Take Your Shoes For a Test-Drive

This kind of goes hand-in-hand with #4, but it's so important if you plan on cutting a rug on the dancefloor!

Vintage fan from the 1920s, Shoes by Loly in The Sky - available at ModCloth

I made the mistake of wearing my flats for the first time on the wedding day. My feet were so sore and blistered by the end of the night I was limping around. It's always the cute shoes that hurt the most!

I recommend wearing your shoes around the house to break them in, or bring a back-up pair of flip flops or flats to have on hand for later.

5. Don't Sweat The Small Stuff

I was starting to stress over little things while we were setting up the venue, but my Mom gave me a great calming piece of advice.

You & your partner will be the only ones who know if something doesn't go according to plan. Your reactions to these setbacks will dictate the outcome. So what if the food isn't out at exactly 7 pm? This isn't the end of the world.

If you choose to let this be a big deal, then it will be. But why fuss over the little things when you can be enjoying the celebration!

If you want to see more photos from my day, check out Jessica's blog post. You can also follow her on Instagram at @jessrediker.

Thank you so much for reading, and allowing me to share some of my special day with you all! I will likely be sharing more wedding photos at a later date, so stay tuned!

What pieces of advice would you give a bride-to-be? Tell me in the comments!