There is no doubt that there will be at least something awkward arise on your big day, whether it be family issues, people drinking too much, the weather turning, crocodiles, the alcohol running out, the DJ playing horses non-stop for an hour. Any number of things can happen but that doesn’t mean you can’t at least be prepared for some. Below are some common ones we have experienced that you can prepare for.

1. Family members who cannot stand the sight of each other 

We all know these people and we can all pray to whoever we pray to that they keep it together for the big day. You shouldn't be forced to choose, it is your day to celebrate with whomever you like. 

To keep the peace and minimise conflict, have them seated facing opposite directions, the less they see each other, the more likely they will have a great time.

It is also important to mention these relationships to your photographer. We hear "Mum and Dad" and put them next to each other for family photos, we don't know one of them tried to run the other over once upon a time. One of our good friend’s mother threw away a picture she gave her for Christmas because the father was included in the photo. 

These small things can prevent awkward situations and ensure your day isn’t overshadowed by drama.

2. Beware of Bugs

We love heading far out of the city to a private farmstead, everyone loves the adventure, the DIY touches, even the glamping! What most people forget about are the bugs, you can go as far as having someone go out to spray them (environmentally friendly, of course). Having some citronella candles and bug spray will go a long way in ensuring everyone is comfortable and focusing on the event, not the fly sitting square on their nose.

3. Weddings are no place for phones (unless you’re cutting shapes on the D-Floor)

This seems so obvious, who doesn't have their phone on silent anyway. Never the less, your celebrant will usually shoot off a reminder to your guests as part of the housekeeping and timeline of the day.

For grooms and groomsmen, we recommend giving your phone to someone else. The reasons for this are two fold, firstly, we don't want to see those awkward bulges as your love reads their vows or have them cemented in your photos for eternity. Secondly, you don't want your bride to be walking down the aisle to 'Here Comes the Sun' only for you to soon realise it is coming from your iPhone in your pocket. You’ll be left to Kobe your phone into a bush before she notices, followed by your best man spending 20 minutes looking for your phone. While this might be a little bit funny (this is a true story), it is not ideal. 

4. Your choice of DJ should be high priority

The importance of music at a wedding is often overlooked when in actual fact it can be the difference between a snore fest and an unforgettable night that is spoken about for years to come. The DJ is also often MC if you have not appointed one already.

It is always a good idea to go with someone you like and someone you vibe with. It is easy to play those classic wedding bangers, but not everyone will gel with your group of friends. Make an effort to find someone you like as a person and whose style of music speaks to you and your inner circle.

5. Bridal photos, timing, and places

As much as we would love to have all the time in the world to create beautiful portraits, that is often not possible on a busy wedding day. Sometimes the best man spends 20 minutes looking for the groom's phone in a bush.

If you are getting married at location A, then moving to the reception at venue C and you want photos at location B, make sure that travel time is factored in. We would much prefer one beautiful location with a little more time than trying to cram in several locations if time doesn’t allow for that.

Manage your expectations, beautiful portraits with a group of 4-12 people don't happen instantly, your photographer will be herding several different personalities, some who want photos and others who hate the idea.

On that note, 90 minutes heading into the sunset is better than 4 hours over midday. 

6. Wardrobe malfunctions 

These happen to the best of us, I'm sure everyone has heard a story or two. We recommend you give your outfit a test run right before the wedding. I would even suggest you ask the mothers, fathers and bridal party to try everything on the day before.

No one wants a salty mother sulking because her dress makes her look like the queen once she put it on. 

Or you had your final fitting 6 days before the wedding, come the wedding day your dress no longer fits because you lost weight in those 6 days from stress (another true story). Luckily the dressmaker lived 20 minutes away and Kim-K-style sewed the dress onto the bride.

Also, make sure at least one of the groomsmen knows how to iron a shirt and tie a tie. Pro tip, either wear a belt or suspenders, not both.

Remember, there is a team of people around you who will do everything in their power to make your day perfect and they will jump in and sort these issues for you so don't sweat the small stuff and just enjoy being the centre of attention. 

XOXO Boyfriend