Wedding Tips

Wedding Tips to Make Your Big Day Stress-Free and Unforgettable

Radiant bride in an elegant white wedding gown exchanging vows at Fota Island Resort, Cork.

Your wedding day is one of the most magical days of your life, but let’s be honest—it can also feel like a whirlwind! Between the emotions, excitement, and celebration, it’s easy to get swept up in the moment. As a wedding celebrant based in Cork, Ireland, I’ve witnessed countless weddings and picked up some invaluable tips to help ensure your day goes as smoothly as possible.

Here are my top wedding day tips to help you avoid regrets, stay calm, and fully enjoy every moment.

1. Pack an Emergency Kit

Whether you’re creating bathroom baskets for guests or prepping a kit for yourself, having a few essentials on hand can save the day. Pack items like safety pins, a needle and thread, plasters, tampons, baby wipes, nail polish remover, scissors, antihistamines, and fashion tape.

Bonus tip: Keep club soda or white chalk handy to tackle any last-minute marks on your dress!

2. Hand Over Your Phone

Give your phone to a bridesmaid and ask them to snap a few candid shots throughout the day. This way, you’ll have some fun, personal photos to enjoy the next morning without depending on others to send theirs.

3. Break in Your Shoes

Comfort is key! Whether you’re wearing heels, flats, or something in between, make sure to break in your shoes before the big day. Wear them around the house or at least for a few hours to avoid blisters or discomfort. Alternatively, opt for shoes you know will keep your feet happy all day long.

4. Keep Lipstick Close

Instead of carrying a handbag, give your lipstick or lip gloss to your groom. He’ll have it in his jacket pocket, ensuring it’s always within easy reach for touch-ups throughout the day.

5. Don’t Forget to Eat

With all the excitement, it’s easy to skip meals, but you’ll need your energy. Start the day with a solid breakfast, and grab a quick snack before slipping into your dress. Consider having breakfast delivered to avoid lingering cooking smells in the house.

6. Save the Messages for Later

You’ll likely receive a flood of well-wishes via texts and WhatsApp on the morning of your wedding. Resist the urge to read them right away—save them for the next day when you can properly appreciate and respond to the kind words.

7. Plan Your Photos

Create a list of must-have photos with specific people, such as grandparents, godparents, or close friends. Your photographer will know how to capture the key moments, but they won’t know who “Uncle Paddy” or “Aunty Mary” are. Assign a bridesmaid or groomsman to help gather people for group shots to save time. And then again shots like these are amazing!

8. Choose the Right Ceremony Time

Timing is everything. If you’re planning a winter wedding, remember that daylight can be limited, with sunset as early as 4:30 pm. Consult with your photographer and venue to ensure your ceremony time allows for those all-important outdoor photos. 

9. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

No wedding is ever “perfect,” but here’s the secret: no one else will notice the tiny details you’re stressing over. Focus on the big picture and enjoy the celebration—you’ve worked hard to make this day special!

10. Trust Your Team

You’ve hired amazing suppliers, so let them do their job! Avoid micromanaging on the day and trust the professionals to make everything run smoothly. We are all there for you.

11. Stay True to Yourselves

This is your day. While advice from friends and family can be helpful, don’t feel pressured to follow every suggestion. Stay true to what feels right for you and your partner.

12. Take Time for Just the Two of You

Your wedding day will be busy, but carve out a moment for just the two of you. Whether it’s during the car ride to the reception, a stroll after dinner, or a quiet moment between photos, this time will help you connect and let it all sink in—you just got married!

And Finally… Enjoy Every Moment

You’ve spent months planning your dream wedding, and the big day is finally here! Relax, dance, eat, drink, and savor every moment. This is the celebration of your love, surrounded by the people who matter most.

As a wedding celebrant in Cork, I’ve had the privilege of helping couples create meaningful, personalized ceremonies that reflect their unique love stories. If you’re looking for someone to guide you through your big day, I’d be honored to help make it unforgettable.

For more wedding tips and advice, or to chat about creating your perfect ceremony, feel free to reach out. Your day will be incredible—let’s make it one to remember!

Sometimes it can be easier to have a quick chat…. I get to know about you and more importantly you get to know about me!

Send A Message on WhatsApp 087-2990337

Brian Twomey, Cork wedding celebrant, smiling in a purple jacket and pink tie.