What No One Tells You About Your Wedding Day — 15 Real Tips from a Smoky Mountain Wedding Photographer
If you’re looking for a Smoky Mountain wedding photographer who knows how to capture the moments that truly matter, check out my Wedding Photography Portfolio and let’s chat about your big day!
1. Your Wedding Timeline Can Make or Break Your Photos
Plan your ceremony about two hours before sunset to capture that magical golden light. Midday sun creates harsh shadows trust me, it’s not what you want. Google your sunset time and build your schedule backward.
2. Pack a Photographer’s Detail Bag
Have a small bag ready with:
Veil
Rings (yes, both)
Shoes
Perfume
Jewelry
Vow books or invites
Anything sentimental
These little details help tell your story beautifully in photos.
3. Create a Family Photo List
Make a written list of family groupings before the wedding. Things get chaotic sometimes. This keeps the photos organized and ensures no one important is missing.
4. Hire a Wedding Coordinator (Or Appoint Someone!)
Even if it’s a super-organized friend, have someone responsible for keeping the day on track, communicating with vendors, and handling the unexpected. Let them coordinate with your photographer and videographer. It takes the pressure off you.
5. Reception Seating Plan. Yes, It’s a Thing
“Which side do we sit on?” is a real question. Traditionally, the bride sits to the groom’s right but make a plan that works for you and communicate it ahead of time.
6. Go for Full-Day Photography Coverage
Some of the most emotional moments happen before the ceremony.
Dad’s first look, groomsmen praying, quiet moments.
Don’t miss those—book the full day.
7. Don’t Skip Hair & Makeup Photos
It’s not just makeup—these moments capture excitement, nerves, and laughter. Plus, it helps me get to know you before the big moments start.
8. Consider a First Look
It
Calms nerves
Gets more couple photos
Frees you up after the ceremony
If you skip it, carve out sunset time later. You’ll want those shots.
9. Know Things Will Go Wrong… and That’s Okay
Something unexpected always happens…just roll with it. The unplanned moments usually make the best stories and photos.
10. Plan an Epic Send-Off
End the night big:
Sparklers
Bubbles
Dried flowers
Race flags (yes, I’ve seen it!)
Make it personal—it’s your grand finale.
11. Know Where to Cut Costs And Where Not To
Don’t skimp on:
Photography (you can’t redo the photos)
A solid coordinator
A videographer
A good DJ or band
These things make the day run smooth and fun.
12. Prioritize What You Want
Mountains? Private vows? Whatever your heart wants…do it. This is your day, no one else’s.
13. Assign Someone to Gather Your Personal Items
Designate someone to collect your details at the end of the night….rings, gifts, heirlooms. You’ll be too busy to remember, and these things are too important to lose.
14. Plan a Private Last Dance
After guests head outside for the send-off, stay back for one last slow dance—just the two of you. No cameras, no crowd. It’s the perfect way to close the night.
15. Don’t Forget to Eat
It sounds simple, but you’ll be surprised how easy it is to forget. Build 15-20 minutes into your timeline to eat together. You’ll need the energy, and it gives you a private moment to breathe.
Final Thought:
Weddings fly by. These tips help you slow down, stay present, and make the most of every second. And when the dust settles. You’ll have the photos, the memories, and the stories to relive forever.
Love in Every Frame.
