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: intimate 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 classic, 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, set expectations and bring even more excitement the night before.
This is important for your photos because you may find you need to adjust the exact ceremony spot based on a big ugly shadow or the sun making you squint. You can also add markers to make sure you’re centered in you have an altar.
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)
If you’re planning a backyard wedding or a DIY celebration, ask an organized friend or hire a pro coordinator 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. A very smart investment in my experience!
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. A rented tent, a sweet covered porch, a cozy living room with a fireplace and/or buying a set of cute umbrellas can save the day (and still photograph beautifully).
A Thoughtful Splurge or 2
Nontraditional weddings often have smaller budgets or a more DIY approach. But choosing one thing to elevate the day makes it feel extra meaningful. 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 your flowers to make the setting pop, a live band to give it energy or a special 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 the pros to clean up (often your catering company will handle it) allows your sister to linger at the table a little longer instead of loading the dishwasher. Having the pros clean up means your mom can come dance under the string lights instead of clearing the table. A cleaning crew allows everyone to enjoy the celebration!
Nontraditional Doesn't Mean Unplanned
You can skip the wedding favors or 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.