some of our favorite
wedding tips
Join us on a journey through the enchanting world of weddings, as we unveil a treasure trove of some of our time-tested tips and tricks that we've lovingly amassed over the years. Whether you're a bride-to-be or a wedding enthusiast, our curated insights are poised to elevate your special day into a symphony of unforgettable moments
Getting ready
THE DETAILS
When it comes to capturing the intricate details that adorn a wedding day, having a thoughtfully prepared arsenal of essentials can make all the difference. In the realm of getting ready and detail photos, meticulous planning is the key. Consider gathering cherished treasures such as wedding bands and engagement rings, united in one elegant display. The invitation suite, a tangible memory of anticipation, finds its place alongside, warranting duplicates for posterity. Jewelry—necklaces, earrings, and delicate hairpieces—adds a touch of sparkle. Immaculately poised shoes, veils dancing in the air, and sentimental family heirlooms contribute to the narrative. Not forgetting cufflinks and ties, these minutiae form a symphony of memories woven into the fabric of your extraordinary day.
GETTING READY VENUE
The choice of a getting-ready venue wields a remarkable influence on the overall wedding experience. In instances where a convenient hotel isn't within reach, the allure of an Airbnb unveils itself as a viable alternative, generously offering a surplus of space, fostering an atmosphere of ease and flexibility.
When picking a getting-ready space, opt for a space drenched in abundant natural light streaming through the windows, as artificial lighting tends to cast an unflattering orange hue on camera.
To orchestrate an immaculate backdrop, we highly recommend decluttering and removing all trash, unnecessary bags, etc. before your photographers arrive. Although we artfully explore inventive angles, this helps ensure there are no distracting elements in the background.
HAIR + MAKEUP
The main factor that can disrupt a meticulously planned timeline is underestimating the time needed for hair and makeup. To safeguard against this, ensure a cushion of extra time for their completion, (we recommend at least 15 extra minutes). Delays in the morning can cascade into missed opportunities for cherished first looks and pre-ceremony portraits
Furthermore, the significance of a pre-wedding hair and makeup trial cannot be overstated, as it grants you the assurance of adoring your appearance when the day unfolds.
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR THE MEN…
To ensure a seamless and stylish look for the gentlemen on your special day, we strongly advise practicing the art of tying ties or bow ties well in advance. It's a common sight for only one individual to possess the tie-tying prowess, leading to a last-minute scramble to assist everyone. By mastering this skill beforehand, you not only foster a sense of self-sufficiency but also guarantee a polished and uniform appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of your wedding party.
ceremony
THE DETAILS
A simple yet essential tip for brides and bridesmaids is to always keep paper towels handy to gently pat dry the base of flowers before holding them. This precautionary step helps prevent any water stains from taking away from the beauty of your dresses, ensuring that your attire remains as pristine as your special day's memories.
In anticipation of the delicate nature of boutonnieres, we strongly advise having a spare on hand, recognizing their susceptibility to unforeseen damage. This precaution ensures that every gentleman's adornment remains impeccable, allowing the celebration to unfold with grace and elegance. We also recommend having spare pins for boutonnieres at the ready, leaving no room for unexpected mishaps. Check out our blog for more wedding day essentials to have on hand!
BEFORE THE CEREMONY
Crafting a seamless ceremony experience requires thoughtful orchestration. To preserve the sanctity of the moment, consider kindly requesting guests refrain from taking pictures, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in the heartfelt exchange. Guests deserve the opportunity to wholeheartedly savor the moment, unburdened by the distraction of viewing it through screens, plus we have seen so many entrances or kisses blocked by phones or even iPads in the aisle!
Entrusting a close friend or skilled planner to choreograph the music cues and bridal party entrances ensures a harmonious procession, as the melodies and participants synchronize in perfect harmony. This strategic guidance guarantees that each step down the aisle resonates with poignancy, freeing you to relish the significance of the occasion without any worries. There is so much going on, but don’t forget to smile and take it all in as you walk down the aisle!
creative portraits
Strategically fitting family photos, wedding party shots, and the artistic couple's portraits into a single hour can be a challenging and overwhelming endeavor. Recognizing the substantial trust you've placed in us, we are dedicated to ensuring your experience is exceptional. Quality portraits demand time, especially without a first look; therefore, we recommend reserving at least 1.5 hours between your ceremony and reception. Additionally, allowing a window for sunset photos during the reception can enhance your collection. On average, our couples typically allocate around 2 hours in total for these cherished portrait moments. Check out our guide to crafting the perfect timeline for more tips on timing!
When it comes to selecting the perfect locations for your wedding portraits, rest assured that our expertise is at your disposal every step of the way. While capturing your moments in the great outdoors, it's important to be mindful of the midday sun, which can pose challenges due to its intense brightness and contrasting shadows. To counter this, seeking out shaded areas becomes a valuable strategy. We always position you to avoid squinting and maximize the flattering light.
We will also take any chance that we can to run off into the sunset with you! Particularly during the summer months, the magical golden hour—just before sunset—often coincides with your reception. If feasible, a brief 15-minute session post-dinner can yield exquisite results, offering a visually splendid culmination to your day. For weddings held from October to March, sunset's golden hour typically aligns with the prelude to your reception, underscoring the significance of consulting sunset times to fine-tune your ceremony schedule.
reception
Allow yourself ample time for the intricacies of bustling your dress; this seemingly small detail can save you from fussing over your gown and grant you unhindered movement as you revel in the festivities. When you have your final fitting with your seamstress, have someone record the bustling profess so that on the day of you can follow along!
In the pursuit of both elegance and comfort, consider stashing a pair of cozy shoes for later in the evening – a gracious reprieve from those glamorous but often less forgiving heels.
Amid the whirlwind of excitement, remember to prioritize nourishment – carve out a moment to savor the delectable cuisine you've meticulously curated and helps you to party all night long!
