9 Things Brides Wish They Did The Day Of Their Wedding

Although we try to live without regrets, there are moments in our lives that we wish we could do over. A bride's wedding day is quite possibly one of the most important days of her life and with this comes an immense amount of pressure to have EVERYTHING go perfectly. Of course it will not, and this stress often causes a bride to  not truly enjoying her own wedding. We've collected some helpful suggestions from former brides, so go ahead and learn from their mistakes! Lead photograph ~ Lora Grady

1. Eat breakfast. A hungry bride is not a happy bride. We can assure you that your dress will still zip up even after eating those hash browns the morning of your wedding. Image via boldsky.com

2. Sit down and eat your reception food (Don’t worry, this post is not all about food!) You put a lot of time and effort into choosing your wedding meal. Don't deprive yourself! Kick back, relax and enjoy the food that you and your groom so carefully chose. If you loved those "Build Your Own Tacos" at your tasting months ago, you're sure to love them the day of your wedding. Image via happywedd.com

3. Reapply your lipstick. Many brides say that when they look back at their wedding photos, one of the first things they notice after their hair, is their makeup. Lipstick is one way to brighten up your face, but unfortunately it fades fairly quickly. We suggest giving your maid of honor, mother or best friend a “first aid make-up kit” containing all of your make-up essentials such as lipstick and blotting papers so you will look fresh faced throughout the day.

4. Don't stress over not personally speaking with each and every guest. The fact of the matter is that you may not get to personally talk to and greet each guest. Most likely they will understand that you are busy and will not be terribly upset if they don't get a chance to chat with you. However, if this is very important to you, adopt a Scandinavian tradition ~ place empty chairs across from you and your husband for guests to come and sit and say hello. This takes the pressure off of having a receiving line or making it around to every table. JKoe Photography

5. Bring a pair of comfortable flats or sandals for later. We get it; you adore your sky-high wedding shoes. However, your feet will thank you. While some brides brave it out and keep their heels on the entire night, most go barefoot or opt for something more comfortable. Find a happy medium that both you and your feet will be happy with and pack a pair of stylish flats or sandals to change into once the formal photos and first dance are over.

6. Assign a bridesmaid the job of making sure you stay hydrated. You will be talking to many people. You will never make it to the bar. Have someone make sure you always have a drink in your hand. Trust us, you will need it! Amy & Stuart Photography

7. See each other before the ceremony and have some photos taken. Not only will this help get rid of pre-wedding jitters and allow you some quiet time with your groom, but will also be a chance to get some of your pictures done and out of the way. Take the bulk of your more formal shots before the wedding while you and your bridal party are fresh and your face doesn't hurt from smiling! This will allow you to mingle with your guests during your cocktail hour (and thus enjoy the actual reception without feeling guilty for not moving from table to table - see #4 ) or eliminate your cocktail hour completely as this was created so the wedding party could go off and have their photos taken. Candids make the best shots anyway and you can always sneak off later for more photos when the pressure is off and you're sure to be more relaxed. Birds of a Feather 

8. Accept and be ok with the knowledge that something will inevitably go wrong. You have been in crazy planning mode now for months and have everything figured out down to the very last detail. However, you can't control everything, nor should you want to. Some of these mishaps will make for funny stories later. Trust us!  So just take a breath and relax when something doesn't go as planned. Some things, like rain, actually make for great photo ops! Browne Photography

9. Take it all in. This day is truly about you and your spouse. The memories you are creating on this special day will last a lifetime. Celebrate with your guests but also sneak away and watch from afar to appreciate everything that is going on. Take a moment away from the chaos and demands and just take it all in. When else will all these people that you love be together in one spot to support and celebrate you both? Sarah Murray Photography