If you’re planning your wedding, you’ve likely heard it all before: “Don’t forget to eat!” “Take it all in!” “Something will go wrong, and that’s okay!” Great advice for sure, but it’s kind of expected.
Here at The Bridal Room, we’ve seen it all - from the planning butterflies to the just-married glow. Over the years, we’ve picked up some thoughtful, practical, and even unconventional tips that often come up after the big day. These aren’t the standard checklist items you hear all the time - they’re the little things brides wish they’d known ahead of time, and they just might help you feel more grounded, present, and at ease on your own wedding day.
So here’s a roundup of honest wedding day advice from brides who’ve been in your shoes!
Danielle Defayette Photography |
Leave Your Phone with a Trusted Friend (Not in the Bridal Party)
Give your phone to a close friend outside the bridal party with one simple ask: capture the little moments! They can snap behind-the-scenes clips, sweet candids, and tiny memories that you'll want to relive the next morning without chasing down a dozen guests for photos. It’s always fun to see what’s captured from the eyes of someone who’s not a photographer or a part of the wedding!
Start the Day with a Massage or Solo Quiet Time
This is particularly helpful if you’ve decided to not have bridesmaids for your wedding! If your wedding day morning isn’t packed with appointments or chaos like so many weddings are, take that as an opportunity to really treat yourself and calm your mind before the ceremony. Book a massage, a steam room, or even just a walk with your favorite playlist. A calm start can help you stay grounded and in the moment all day long.
Devoted & Wild Photography |
Remember: Only You, Your Partner, and Your Planner Know the “Plan”
If something goes “off-script,” chances are your guests won’t notice because they don’t know the script. That missing sign, the wrong song, or the skipped speech? Not even a blip on their radar! Let it go and keep moving. This is your day, so don’t fall into the trap of getting caught up in the little things that could go awry.
Terri Baskin Photography |
Appoint a “Point Person” Who’s Not in the Bridal Party
Choose someone who isn’t standing up with you, but knows the plan and can handle vendor questions, timeline tweaks, or mini emergencies. Let your bridal party enjoy the day with you - not as unpaid coordinators.
Lock Eyes with Your Partner and Breathe
It sounds simple, but this is the fastest way to reset. Your partner is your anchor - one shared breath, one glance, and everything else fades into the background for a second. That’s the magic!
Terri Baskin Photography |
Book the Night After Your Wedding Too
If you're staying in a hotel on your wedding night and not heading out on your honeymoon right away, book a second night. Trust us - you won’t want to be packing and checking out at 11 a.m. after dancing all night. Sleep in, order room service, and let your guests deal with the departure rush!
Skip the First Dance - Try a Last Dance Instead
Not everyone loves dancing in front of a crowd. If that’s you, skip the spotlight moment and opt for a private last dance once the reception winds down. It’s intimate, pressure-free, and the perfect way to reconnect before the night ends (or before heading out to the after-after party!).
Ishmael Brun Photography |
Create a Post-Wedding “Survival Kit” for the Next Morning
Think: water, ibuprofen, comfy clothes, makeup wipes, a favorite snack, and maybe even a love note to yourself. After the high of the day, this tiny kit will feel like a hug from your past self.
Your wedding day will be full of beautiful chaos, quiet moments, and memories you’ll replay forever. But above all, it should feel like you. Forget the rules, ditch the pressure, and lean into what brings you joy!
And if you’re still looking for the dress that will help you feel confident, radiant, and completely yourself - we’ve got you. Book your appointment at The Bridal Room today!