10 Real Wedding Day Tips from Brides Who’ve Been There

10 Real Wedding Day Tips from Brides Who’ve Been There

(Advice from Real Couples in Quebec, Montreal & the Eastern Townships)

Planning a wedding is exciting—but it can also feel like juggling 50 emotions and 500 decisions at once. As wedding photographers who’ve been behind the scenes at over 100 weddings across Montreal, the Eastern Townships, and all over Quebec, we’ve learned something important:

The best advice often comes from couples who’ve already done it.

So we asked our brides to share the things they wish they had known before their big day—because learning from others is half the battle.

1. Take 10 Minutes Alone After the Ceremony

Once the ceremony ends, you’ll be surrounded. Everyone wants to hug you, talk to you, and take a selfie. That’s beautiful—but if you can, sneak away for 10 minutes with your partner. Let it sink in. You just got married.

“We snuck away for 10 minutes after the ceremony, and it was the best decision we made all day.”
— Emily, married in Montreal

2. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Your decor won’t be perfect. Someone might forget the guestbook. A flower girl might bail at the last minute. None of it will matter. You’ll still be married. You’ll still be glowing. Focus on how it feels, not how it looks.

“Our cake topper broke, and I forgot my bouquet—but none of it mattered. We were just so happy.”
— Sophie, married in the Eastern Townships

3. Trust Your Vendors—They’ve Got You

You’ve planned every detail—now trust your team to take it from here. This is why you hire experienced vendors: so you don’t have to stress. From timeline hiccups to last-minute changes, we’ve seen it all and know how to keep things calm and on track. You get to focus on what matters: being fully present.

“I handed over the reins to our planner and photographer, and everything flowed perfectly.”
— Amelia, married in Quebec City

4. Eat Something (Seriously)

So many couples forget to eat. Don’t. Snack while getting ready. Ask your caterer to bring you a plate during cocktail hour. You’ll need the energy—and it’ll help keep those champagne bubbles in check.

Pro tip: Pack a few easy bites or even some candy in your bag. You’ll thank yourself halfway through portraits!

“I nearly fainted during our vows because I hadn’t eaten all day. Don’t make that mistake! Randy did give me some sour gummies though!”
— Natalie, married in Brome

5. Choose Comfort Where You Can

Heels are gorgeous until hour six. Tight tuxes make for grumpy groomsmen. Bring a second pair of shoes, a comfy dress to change into, or even just a breath of fresh air between events.

“I changed into sneakers after the ceremony, and it was a game-changer for dancing all night.”
— Rachel, married in Bromont

6. Schedule “Just Us” Portrait Time

Make sure your timeline includes a chunk of time for photos of just the two of you. It’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and get beautiful, meaningful portraits without rushing.

(We always help our couples plan for this in advance.)

“Our private photo session was the only time we had alone together—it was so special.”
— Laura, married in Sutton

7. Write Each Other a Note

Even if you’re not doing personal vows, take a moment in the morning to exchange letters. It’s grounding. It reminds you what all the effort is for. And it makes for amazing candid photos, too.

“Reading his letter before walking down the aisle calmed my nerves instantly. It was the first time I ever read anything like that from him.”
— Isabelle, married in Old Montreal

8. YOU'LL FEEL DIFFERENT

No matter how long you’ve been living together, there’s something undeniably powerful about making it official. Whether it feels like a quiet shift or a life-changing moment, getting married brings a sense of realness that’s hard to describe—but impossible to ignore.

“Things ran late, but we just rolled with it and had the best time. It’s true. They always wait for the bride lol.”
— Chloe, married in Laval

9. Assign Someone to “Be You” for the Day

Designate a friend or sibling to field questions, find lost bouquets, or gently remind you to breathe. They’ll run interference so you can focus on your day.

“My sister handled all the questions and logistics, so I could just enjoy the day.”
— Vanessa, married in Sherbrooke

10. Soak It All In—This Goes Fast

The day flies. Everyone says it, and it’s true. Take mental snapshots. Look around during the speeches. Dance with your people. Be present. That’s where the real magic is.

“I took a moment during dinner to look around and absorb everything—it was magical. I think about those 2 minutes at least once a week.”
— Danielle, married in Montreal