Wedding Staples I’d Keep, No Matter How Nontraditional Your Plans Are
Essential To-Do’s for Every Wedding Celebration
I photograph a lot of nontraditional weddings in Asheville and around the Blue Ridge Mountains, think: backyard celebrations and small weddings held at the lake. I love how each one feels so personal and comfortable.
And even with the most unconventional plans, there are a few smart wedding planning staples I always recommend keeping on your to-do list.
A Rehearsal
It doesn't have to be formal! Just walking through the ceremony ahead of time helps calm nerves and set expectations. It’ll bring up details you’ll never have anticipated too.
This is important for your photos because you may find you need to adjust the exact ceremony spot based on a big ugly shadow hitting half your face or the sun making you squint. We practice for the unexpected!
Tailoring
This one’s huge. A well-fitted outfit, whether it’s a suit, dress or jumpsuit, makes such a difference in how you feel and how you photograph. Don’t skip this step! It’s worth every penny.
Someone in Charge (Who Isn’t You)
Hire a pro coordinator or ask an organized friend to manage the timeline and details. It’s one of my best stress-free wedding planning tips. You should be soaking in the moments, not answering vendor texts.
Wedding planners often offer day-of coordination packages if you don’t need help leading up. I’m happy to recommend a few names for you!
A Weather Backup Plan
For all outdoor events, having a Plan B for weather is a must. We get plenty of rain here in Western North Carolina so a rented tent, a covered porch, a cozy living room and/or buying a set of cute umbrellas can save the day (and still photograph beautifully).
A Trial Run
You may be doing your own hair, your bestie may be handling your makeup - still do a trial run! It helps you catch any surprises and keep the getting-ready process relaxed and actually fun on the big day.
A Thoughtful Splurge or 2
Nontraditional weddings often have smaller budgets or a more DIY approach. But, I gotta say, choosing at least one thing to elevate the day is a good call. No matter how laidback you want the vibe, you still want your wedding day to feel like more than a regular party. You want to mark this day as intentional and of importance. Maybe you splurge on local flowers, a live band or a handmade veil. Choose what feels meaningful to you 2 and go for it!
A Cleaning Crew
There are certain vendors worth hiring no matter what. I like to put myself in that category, photography is a must! I think a cleaning crew is a must-have too. Hiring pros to clean up allows your mom to linger at the table a little longer instead of loading the dishwasher. Having the pros clean up means your cousin can dance under the string lights instead of clearing the table. A cleaning crew allows everyone to enjoy the celebration!
Share the Plan
Even the most laid-back wedding runs smoother when everyone knows what to expect. Give clear directions, communicate the flow of the day and delegate tasks to any helpers ahead of time. Guests and loved ones feel more at ease when they know what’s happening and how they can help - especially if the plan is nontraditional.
Nontraditional Doesn't Mean Unplanned
You can skip the wedding favors and bouquet toss, but don’t skip thoughtful planning that makes your day flow with ease. Or the steps before the wedding that will improve your photos!
If you’re planning a backyard wedding, elopement or small celebration in Asheville or the mountains nearby, I’d love to help document it in a way that feels natural and true to you.