I have watched many friends get married. Every wedding was different and charming in their own way. I figured that even though all of these weddings were very different, there would be some common advice that I could gather from the brides. I asked. They answered. Here is 5 pieces of advice from former brides:

Don’t sweat the little things!

This is a regret that many brides have. It’s easy to get caught up in insignificant details when trying to make your day perfect. Instead of agonizing over minute details, focus on the big picture. Your wedding is just one of many days in your life.

Don’t skimp on the photography!

Wedding photography is very expensive. With prices reaching as high as $10,000 for a single day, it’s enough to make you cringe. Some of my friends decided to go with cheaper options for wedding photography and greatly regretted it.

One friend chose a non-professional photographer. Going with non-professional photographers means non-professional behaviour and photos. One bride commented that her photographer tried to leave early and missed important moments. The bride was disappointed and found that of the hundreds of photos taken, only a few were sharable with friends and family.

Photography is pricey but worth every penny! Research your photographer and be willing to pay the price, this is your special day you shouldn’t have to worry about the photographer on top of everything else.

Start researching now! Here is a link to a list of Vancouver photographers.

Outsource labor as much as possible.

As a planner you have a lot on your plate. Don’t be afraid to outsource, this is why you have bridesmaids! Your maid of honour could be responsible for contacting vendors, while your bridesmaids can be in charge of decorating. Outsourcing will save you stress and many headaches.

Pay a professional to do your flowers.

A couple of my friends were economical and purchased their own flowers. They created beautiful handmade centre pieces and bouquets. While this seemed to be a good idea they found that it was a lot more work than anticipated. In the end they wished they had gotten a professional to do the job.

editors note: One bride contradicts this advice saying: “I did my own flowers and I would again. It was cheaper and super fun and I think they were beautiful.”

Remember that this is YOUR day!

This is advice you hear everywhere. But when you are finally planning your wedding it will truly sink in. Brides get pulled in many different opinionated directions. Every bride has pointed out that, this is your day: Do things that make you happy– or get frustrated by making others happy.

Have you planned your own wedding? What advice would you add to this list? Answer in the comments below!