How to Have a Relaxed Wedding
How to Have a Relaxed Wedding
Weddings can be a lot—there’s no way around it. Guest lists, venues, timings, food, music, family politics… it’s easy to feel like your day is slipping away from you. But here’s the thing: a wedding should feel like YOUR wedding, not just a checklist of traditions and expectations.
After photographing nearly 400 weddings, I’ve seen what actually makes for a chilled-out, easygoing day—and what turns it into a stress-fest.
If you want a laid-back wedding, here’s how to make it happen:
10 Tips for Having a Relaxed Wedding Day
1. Get Clear on What You Want
Forget what should happen. Start with what feels right for you.
•Want to skip a first dance? Do it.
•Thinking of getting ready together instead of separately? Go for it.
•Hate the idea of a long sit-down meal? Try street food trucks or a picnic-style setup.
Your wedding isn’t a performance—it’s a celebration of you two. The more your day reflects your vibe, the more relaxed it’ll feel.
Keep Things Small and Intimate
2. Ditch the Unnecessary Traditions
There are no rules. Wedding ‘traditions’ are just ideas people have picked up over the years. If they stress you out, leave them out.
•No need for a wedding party if you don’t want one.
•Skip the cake-cutting if that’s not your thing.
•Speeches? Keep them short—or swap them for a casual toast.
The goal? Less pressure, more fun.
Choose One Wedding Venue for the Ceremony and Reception
Pick Suppliers Wisely
3. Give Yourself Breathing Space
Tight timelines are the #1 cause of wedding day stress. Build in buffer time so you’re not rushing from one thing to the next.
•Allow extra time for getting ready. It always takes longer than expected.
•Keep gaps between events so you can actually enjoy them.
•Don’t cram every minute with activities—leave space for spontaneous fun.
Some of the best moments are the unplanned ones—let them happen.
4. Choose Suppliers You Actually Like
Your vendors are with you all day. Pick people who get your vibe.
•Find a photographer who doesn’t just take great photos but makes you feel at ease. (Hint: that’s me!)
•Book a planner (or an on-the-day coordinator) if you’d rather not be the go-to person for every decision.
•Hire a band or DJ who knows how to read the room instead of just playing a set playlist.
Good suppliers make everything run smoother—and you’ll actually enjoy having them around.
Get Organised
Don’t Leave Things to the Last Minute
5. Make It Comfortable for Everyone (Including You!)
A relaxed wedding isn’t just about you—it’s about setting the tone for your guests too.
•Venue: Pick a space that feels welcoming, not overly formal.
•Dress code: If you’re not into black tie, don’t do black tie.
•Seating: Comfy chairs, shaded areas, and chill-out spots make a big difference.
•Drinks: Keep the drinks flowing—no one likes queuing for ages at the bar.
When your guests are relaxed, the whole wedding feels more effortless.
Choose a Photographer who has Shot at Your Venue Before
6. Be Present. Actually Enjoy It.
Easier said than done, right? But seriously—the best way to have a relaxed wedding is to stop worrying and soak it in.
•Let go of perfection. Things will go wrong, and that’s fine.
•Delegate. You don’t have to handle everything—trust your vendors and wedding party.
•Take moments to step back and take it all in.
Your wedding will fly by. Make sure you actually experience it, not just manage it.
Want to See What a Relaxed Wedding Looks Like?
I’ve captured hundreds of laid-back, fun, and completely unique weddings—see how other couples made their day feel effortless.
📸 Check out my wedding galleries here
Final Thought:
A wedding doesn’t have to be a big, stressful, traditional whirlwind. Make it your own, keep it simple, and focus on what actually matters: celebrating your love in a way that feels right for you.
Want a photographer who gets it? Let’s chat.