No matter where you are in your wedding planning journey — freshly engaged, knee-deep in details, or just daydreaming — I hope this post brings you a little inspiration (and maybe a few calm, happy feels).
I can still remember the butterflies and joy that filled those days leading up to my own wedding. Things didn’t always go exactly as planned (do they ever?), but the day turned out to be so full of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Today, I’m sharing four little things that made our celebration extra special — and I hope they help make your day just as magical. 💛
💤 1. Have a Bridal Party Sleepover
If you’re planning to spend the night apart from your partner before the big day, a bridal party sleepover is such a fun way to kick things off. It’s not just for kids anymore — it’s pure joy for grown-ups, too!
The night before my wedding, my best friends and I stayed at the most beautiful local bed and breakfast. We ordered snacks, shared stories, laughed way too late, and soaked up those last few “before the aisle” moments together.
The next morning, we got ready in that same cozy space — soft light streaming in through the windows, music playing, makeup brushes in hand, coffee cups nearby. The food was amazing, the vibe was calm, and the photos turned out absolutely gorgeous.
It’s a memory I’ll hold close forever. If you’re on the fence about it — trust me — plan the sleepover. You’ll never regret it.
💍 2. Include a Family Heirloom
There’s something deeply meaningful about carrying a little piece of family history with you on your wedding day. It’s your something borrowed with a story behind it.
For me, that meant including my grandparents’ wedding rings in my look. I wore them close to my heart on a delicate ring holder necklace (I found mine on Amazon, and I still wear it now — especially handy for days when I can’t wear my rings for work).
Those rings have seen decades of love and life. Having them with me that day felt like my grandparents were right there, cheering us on. It added a layer of warmth and connection that made the day feel even more sacred.
If you have a family piece — jewelry, fabric, a garter, a handkerchief — consider weaving it into your day. It’s a beautiful way to honor the love that helped shape yours.
🎶 3. Cut the Music (in the Best Way)
Here’s a tip I didn’t know I needed until my own wedding: you can cut your songs down to just your favorite parts!
We worked with Elise Elm, who’s an absolute pro at music editing, and she created the perfect versions of our songs — about two minutes each. It kept the energy high, the moments sweet, and made our dances feel natural instead of nerve-wracking.
The best part? We still got to enjoy the parts of the songs that meant the most to us. When I think back to our first dance, it’s the perfect length and memory — short, romantic, and completely us.
If you’re feeling anxious about being on the dance floor too long, trimming your music might just be your secret weapon.
💫 4. End the Night with a Last Dance
Oh, the last dance. I’ll never forget ours.
Whether you invite everyone to join you or keep it private between just the two of you, it’s the perfect way to close out your celebration. We chose a slow, romantic song and let ourselves soak in every second — the lights dim, the room softly humming with love and contentment.
It was the sweetest transition into our grand exit and a beautiful reminder of what the whole day was about: us, together, beginning our forever.
If you can, sneak in that last dance. It’s quiet magic.
Image: IVORY+ ink
💐 A Little Wedding Wisdom
At the end of the day — even if the weather shifts, timelines blur, or something doesn’t go quite as planned — you’ll still be married to your favorite person. And that’s what truly matters.
So take a breath, let the joy lead the way, and remember that the best moments are often the unplanned ones.
I hope these ideas add a sprinkle of calm and creativity to your planning! I’d love to hear your thoughts — or any sweet traditions you’re including — in the comments below.
Here’s to your beautiful day ahead, full of laughter, love, and maybe just a few happy tears.
Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth 