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If you’re the kind of couple who wants to focus on having fun, soaking up every moment, and making sure your guests have the time of their lives, this guide is for you.
Let’s get one thing straight: your wedding doesn’t have to look like it belongs in a bridal magazine to be epic. After shooting hundreds of weddings, I’ve learned one thing—perfection is overrated, but a wedding day that feels like you? That’s the good stuff. So here’s your no-fluff, no-pressure guide to planning a day that’s beautiful, meaningful, and—most importantly—not a logistical nightmare.
Focus More on Experience Than Aesthetic
Ten years from now, your guests won’t remember what shade of blush your napkins were. They’ll remember how much fun they had, how relaxed you looked, and the feeling of the day. Build moments into your day that feel like you—whether that’s a tequila shot toast during your ceremony, a pet-friendly dance floor, or breaking out into karaoke at the reception.
One of the best ways to ensure your wedding is a fun, unforgettable experience is to think about it from your guests’ perspective. Opt for entertainment that feels inclusive and interactive. From photo booths to late-night snacks, think about what will make your guests feel engaged and cared for throughout the day.
Extend the Celebration Into Multiple Events
Your wedding doesn’t have to be crammed into one whirlwind day. Stretch out the magic with a few smaller events, like:
Private Vows: A quiet moment just for the two of you before the chaos starts. This doesn't need to be the day-of either. Most wedding photographers are open to extending their services for a couple extra hours to capture all the good stuff.
Bridal Party Sleepover: Relive your middle school slumber party dreams with your closest crew. My bestie did this with her bridal party at a hot springs cabin in Montana and it was the best part of the wedding weekend.
Post-Wedding Brunch: One more chance to soak up the love before everyone heads home.
Not only does this let you savor the experience, but it also takes the pressure off having one perfect day.
Pick the Things You Want to Spend Money On and DIY, Thrift, or Ditch the Rest
Newsflash: You don’t have to do it all. Decide what matters most to you—an amazing photographer (wink), a killer outfit, or maybe a venue that feels like a second home. Then, for everything else, channel your inner thrifter or minimalist.
Need seating? Borrow chairs from family or mix and match thrifted finds. Want personalized decor? Hit up Facebook Marketplace or your local buy-nothing group. And let’s be honest, does anyone really care about custom monogrammed napkins? (Spoiler: they don’t.)
You don’t need to spend thousands to make your wedding look amazing. Here are a few easy, budget-friendly ideas that pack a punch:
Bubble Machines: Instant whimsy for a fraction of the cost of a floral arch.
Misters or Fans: Keep your guests cool while looking stylish.
Tons of String Lights: A few strands of lights can transform any space into magic.
White Fans and Umbrellas: Classy, practical, and they double as props for your photos.
Fabric Backdrops: Drape colorful fabric or gauzy material over an existing structure for an instant centerpiece.
The goal is vibe over volume. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect setup—just a few standout touches that feel effortless and fun.
Want to save on money and maximize on experience? The number one best way to do this is to cut down the guest list. And anyone who's been a part of wedding planning knows how quickly a guest list can get out of hand. There are a ton of pros of the more and more popular micro weddings, and the even more intimate elopement option. From extended location options (like this intimate wedding on film at Portland restaurant Dame or this Oregon waterfall elopement) to better food on a smaller budget, the micro celebrations are really where it's at.
Hire Vendors Who Match Your Vibe
Your wedding team is your ride-or-die crew for the day. Choose vendors who get you. A laid-back couple needs a chill photographer, a flexible coordinator, and a DJ who knows the difference between “fun party” and “awkward prom vibes.”
Ok yes this is a bit of self promotion but even if you don't hire me, candid film wedding photos are a wedding photography trend that will never go out of style. One of the biggest reasons weddings can feel stressful is the pressure to get “perfect” photos. Hire a photographer who prioritizes candid moments over posed ones. Let them capture the laughter, the happy tears, and the spontaneous moments that truly tell the story of your day.
Skip the hours of group photos and portraits - trust me when I say you're not going to want to interrupt the party to take hundreds of combinations of group shots and variations of the same posed photos. Instead, opt for a cocktail hour where you can mingle with your party while your photographer captures natural photos of you and your guests.
Feed Your Guests Well—and Often
Hungry guests are cranky guests. Skip the three-hour gap between ceremony and dinner. Serve snacks, pass around signature cocktails, or set up a food truck to keep everyone happy and full. Bonus points if it’s something fun and unexpected like a late-night churro station, fry bar with assorted dips or coffee cart for that late-night jolt.
Plan a Kickass Exit Strategy
There's nothing worse than an amazing wedding party coming to a crashing halt because the venue is closing and there's no clear after party. End your night on a high note - whether that's heading off alone as newlyweds, taking the whole party to your favorite bar or having a late-night bonfire, pick a send-off that feels right for you.
Add Some Surprise Moments
Want your wedding to stand out? Throw in a surprise. Have your officiant read notes from your friends and family, show up to the dance floor with light-up sneakers, or start your reception with a killer choreographed dance. These unexpected touches are what people remember.
Here’s the Bottom Line
Your wedding is about you two. Not trends, not expectations, and definitely not what that one overly opinionated cousin thinks. So lean into the joy, keep it real, and remember—the best weddings are the ones where you’re fully present and having the time of your life.
Looking for a candid wedding photographer whose priority is to document your day so you can enjoy it? Reach out to chat about your 2025 / 2026 wedding celebration - available anywhere you're in love.
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