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I'm a wedding photographer based out of South Bend, Indiana.

I believe in always having a vase full of fresh flowers, especially during peony season. That ending a long day should always be on the patio, with a good book and a glass of rosé. And, going to the beach is always a good idea.

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Katie

There are so many posts out there about how to plan the perfect wedding day, but no one is really saying what not to do. This list is comprised of our experience at more than 200 weddings. Observing what is commonly not happening that would make the day run smoother and more enjoyable for all.

Pocket Squares

This really does seem kind of silly, but I highly recommend pre-planning how you want the pocket squares to look. And, maybe even practice during the tux fitting. Chris recently started to recommend having the men’s pocket squares figured out the night before (and pressed into this shape). This is a great task to give to the mother of the groom as she is always trying to help. Here is a great guide to the top folds we typically see. http://www.tie-a-tie.net/how-to-fold-a-pocket-square/

Groom holding heirloom pocket watch

Street Clothes

What should you do with your street clothes once you are dressed? The girl’s usually are gifted monogrammed bags to put their clothes in after they get dressed, but the groomsmen need a plan in place on how they’ll get their clothes where they need to be and when.

Groom getting ready

Grandparents seating arrangements

I can’t tell you how many grandparents have taken their hearing aids out or walked to opposite side of the room because they are sitting too close to the band or DJ. I suggest placing them as far away from the speakers as you can and yet closest to the head table.

grandparents dancing on the dance floor at a wedding reception

Rain Backup

Out of 200+ weddings, it’s only rained on 6 of my weddings or at least held off while we are transported to the ceremony and then rained after the reception started. However, that doesn’t mean a plan shouldn’t be set in place for transportation to the ceremony, throughout portraits and to the reception. Of course I will have the umbrellas no matter what, but you’ll want to consider your options. And, don’t forget about the guests. Just don’t leave it to the last minute.

bride & groom on the way to the reception in a trolley opening champaign with their bridal party

Reception Grand Entrance

A small thing but if you think about how you want to enter your reception and where, you can make sure the plans for your tables are best laid out. The normal options are usually through tables or by the DJ booth. I recommend holding hands and having a clear line through the tables to the dance floor.

Bride & Groom's grand entrance at their wedding reception

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