The One Thing I’d Have Done Differently

Brittany and Sam, married in February, 2008.

Photo: Garrett Nudd Photography

What’s the one thing you would have done differently at your wedding? Many of our readers aren’t married quite yet so can’t answer that question but hopefully those that have already tied the knot would respond with “I wouldn’t change a thing!”. I loved every last detail about my own wedding in 2008. I had worked in the wedding industry for over three years by the time I got married, and was able to easily plan the event in 7 months by quickly selecting a vendor team I was completely confident in, having had experience with all of them through work.  On the wedding day I wasn’t a bit nervous or stressed, just excited to get down that aisle and head to the party!  I trusted the vendors I’d hired to do their jobs well and to implement all of our plans, and they all exceeded my expectations.

There has always been just one thing I would have done differently if I could do it all over: I would have done first look photos.

Seven years ago, first looks weren’t as common as they are today. In fact, even though I’d heard of photographers doing them, the thought never even crossed my mind. I assumed that we should wait to see each other until the ceremony because, well, that’s just what people do! My bridesmaids and I were completely ready to rock at least an hour before the ceremony and ended up waiting in our suite with me just totally anxious to get out the door. Looking back, it would have been the perfect time for Sam and I to have seen each other and had a quick moment to ourselves before the hoopla began. It also would have calmed some major nerves going on (not mine, his! ha!) and the ceremony could feel a little more relaxed for us both. Of course we took portraits on our own during cocktail hour but when you have extended family and bridal party portraits to fit in, there’s only so much time before you have to be introduced into the reception.

Now that I’ve planned and coordinated a couple hundred weddings and seen tons of first look photos, I can honestly say that is the only thing I would have done differently. What about you? If you’re married, what might you have changed?