WEDDING GUIDE
PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEOGRAPHY+ PHOTOBOOTH
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR ENGAGEMENT!
As your wedding photographer, I'm thrilled to be part of this incredible journey with you. This guide is designed to provide you with valuable insights and assistance as you navigate the exciting world of wedding planning.
This can all be quite overwhelming, so save the link and came back to it when you need to. otherwise I am always here to help you along the way as much as i can
I'm beyond excited to dive into the wonderful world of wedding photography with you. Let's make magic together! As your potential wedding photographer, let me tell you a bit about myself and why I believe I'm the perfect fit for capturing your special day.
Let's Connect: First things first, let's grab a coffee (or your beverage of choice) and get to know each other! I want to hear all about your love story, your quirks, and your vision for your big day.
Building a genuine connection with you is key to creating photos that truly reflect your unique bond.
Your Vision, My Passion: Your wedding day is all about you, and I'm here to make sure your vision comes to life through my lens. From dreamy portraits to candid moments filled with laughter, I'll work tirelessly to capture every precious memory exactly how you envision it.
No Stress Zone: Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but trust me, photography is one thing you won't have to stress about. I've got your back every step of the way, from helping you create a shot list to offering advice on the best locations and lighting for those Insta-worthy shots.
Let's Have Fun: Who says wedding photography has to be stiff and formal? Not me! Let's have some fun together and create memories that are as joyful and spontaneous as your love. I'll be right there with you, cheering you on and capturing every spontaneous moment of pure happiness.
Attention to Detail: From the delicate lace on your gown to the heartfelt tears in your parents' eyes, it's the little details that make your wedding day uniquely yours. I have a keen eye for those special moments and will ensure they're beautifully preserved for you to cherish forever.
Flexibility is Key: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes plans change. Whether it's a sudden rain shower or a last-minute venue switch, rest assured I'll adapt quickly and ensure we still capture stunning photos that tell your love story, rain or shine.
Your Biggest Fan: On your wedding day, I'm not just your photographer—I'm your biggest cheerleader! I'll be there to calm your nerves, fix your veil, and make sure you look and feel your absolute best. Consider me a friend you can count on to make your day extra special.
I've been photographing weddings for so long now and I still love it every single time and get so excited for you and your big day. I come ready equipped with a full wedding first aid kit and im there to help you and make your day as stress free and magical as possible
A FUN PHOTO GAME IDEA....
Inject some playful excitement into your wedding celebration with a Wedding Scavenger Hunt Photo Challenge for your guests! Hand out a list of fun and creative photo challenges, encouraging guests to snap shots throughout the day. Whether it's a selfie with the happy couple, a candid of someone busting out their best dance move, or a photo of the most extravagant wedding attire, let their creativity shine. Provide a deadline for submissions, and designate a spot for guests to share their captures. It's a delightful way to add an interactive element to your wedding, fostering camaraderie and laughter among guests while creating lasting memories.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Booking:
Let's start by checking your date... Yay! It's available! Once we confirm that, let's have a chat about what you envision for your big day and get you all booked in.
Package:
Selecting the perfect package for your special day is crucial, and I'm here to help you find the right fit. Whether it's customizing a package to suit your needs or exploring our preset options, we'll work together to create a timeline that covers all the moments you want to cherish. You can also enhance your package with add-ons like extra hours, a second shooter, or even a fun photo booth for the reception. We also offer film packages, and if you're interested in both, we can work out a special deal just for you.
Deposit:
To secure your date, all it takes is a non-refundable deposit of 25% of your package price. Once that's taken care of and we've signed the agreement, your date is officially reserved. The remaining balance will be due 30 days before your wedding day.
Meeting:
About a month before the big day, I love to meet up with my couples. This is the perfect time to finalize all the details as your plans start coming together. We'll iron out the timeline for the day and address any last-minute concerns or questions you may have.
Wedding:
With my experience in photographing numerous weddings, rest assured that I come fully prepared. From having my trusty "wedding kit" with everything from needles and thread to tissues, to being ready to climb a tree for that perfect shot, I'm dedicated to making sure every moment is captured beautifully. I'll help direct you, keep family photos organized, and handle any task, no matter how big, to ensure your day is nothing short of perfect.
Delivery:
After your wedding, I'll send you a sneak peek of some of my favorite shots within a few days. Each package comes with its own turnaround time for delivery, and I'll keep you updated on the progress. Whether it's arranging for drop-off or providing courier tracking details, I'll ensure your precious memories are delivered to you promptly and securely.
Are you considering engagement photos?
If so, I've got some fantastic ideas and tips to make them unforgettable. We'll find the perfect location that reflects your love story, whether it's where you first met or a favorite spot you both adore or have fun at the beach plus, we can plan ahead to catch that dreamy golden hour light for the most romantic shots.
Don't worry about outfits - I'll help you coordinate styles that make you both look and feel incredible and you can even bring a couple of different outfits along.
These photos aren't just about capturing memories; they're versatile too! You can use them for save the dates, as a guest book for your wedding day, or even to announce your engagement if it's still a surprise.
Its also a really good chance for us to work together, for you to get in front of the camera and feel a bit more comfortable and confident for your Wedding day. Check out some more info here.
PLANNING TIME!
PLANNING
Before diving into the details, take some time to identify your top priorities for the wedding.
BUDGING
Creating and sticking to a realistic budget is key to a stress-free wedding planning experience. Start by outlining your total budget and allocating funds to each aspect of the wedding, such as venue, catering, and photography. Be sure to account for any unexpected expenses that may arise along the way.
VENUE
Choosing the right vendors is crucial to bringing your wedding vision to life. Take the time to research and meet with potential vendors, asking questions about their services, pricing, and availability. Once you've found the perfect fit, be sure to review and sign contracts to secure their services for your big day.
"Love is not about staring at each other, but about looking outward together in the same direction." - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
YOU HAVE SET THE DATE, NOW WHAT?
First Priorities:
- Venue: Secure your ceremony and reception venue as soon as possible, as popular locations often book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons.
- Photographer: YAY! Already Ticked of the list!
- Officiant/Celebrant: If you're having a religious or civil ceremony, securing your officiant or celebrant early is crucial. Ensure they are available on your chosen date and discuss your ceremony preferences with them.
- Caterer/Bar Service: If your venue doesn't provide catering, or if you have specific catering preferences, book your caterer or bar service next. Discuss menu options, dietary restrictions, and any additional services you may need for your reception.
Second Priorities:
- Entertainment: Book your entertainment, such as a DJ, band, or other performers, to ensure they're available on your wedding date. Discuss your music preferences, playlists, and any special requests you have for the entertainment.
- Florist/Decor: Secure your florist and discuss your floral arrangements, bouquets, centerpieces, and any other decor elements you'll need for your ceremony and reception. Book early to ensure availability and discuss your vision for the floral design.
- Wedding Cake: Decide on the style, flavor, and design of your wedding cake. Consider dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegan options, and coordinate with your baker on delivery and setup logistics for the reception.
Third Priorities:
- Wedding Attire: Start shopping for your wedding attire, including your wedding dress, suits or tuxedos for the groom and groomsmen, and attire for the bridal party. Allow ample time for fittings and alterations to ensure everything fits perfectly on the big day.
- Transportation: Arrange transportation for yourself, your bridal party, and guests if needed. Whether it's limousines, vintage cars, or shuttle buses, book early to secure your preferred vehicles and ensure timely transportation on the wedding day.
Guest List: Create a preliminary guest list to estimate the number of attendees and help determine the size of your venue, catering needs, and budget.
Budget: Establish a realistic budget early in the planning process and allocate funds to different aspects of the wedding, prioritizing what matters most to you as a couple.
Wedding Theme or Style: Decide on a wedding theme or style that reflects your personalities and preferences, whether it's rustic, vintage, modern, or something entirely unique.
Wedding Party: Choose your wedding party, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers, and other important roles, and communicate expectations and responsibilities to them.
Invitations and Stationery: Design and order your wedding invitations and other stationery, including save-the-dates, RSVP cards, programs, and thank-you notes, to coordinate with your wedding theme.
Accommodations: Arrange accommodations for out-of-town guests, including hotel room blocks, alternative lodging options, and transportation to and from the wedding venue.
Wedding Registry: Create a wedding registry to let guests know your gift preferences and make it easy for them to select meaningful presents to celebrate your union.
Day-Of Timeline: Develop a detailed day-of timeline outlining the schedule for the wedding day, including ceremony start time, reception events, vendor arrivals, and key moments to ensure everything runs smoothly.
VENDORS QUSTIONS: ASK ALL THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
Availability:
Experience and Portfolio:
Services and Packages:
Price and Payment:
Contracts and Policies:
Logistics:
Communication and Coordination:
References and Reviews:
Creative Input and Vision:
Create a centralized vendor information document or folder to keep track of all essential details such as contracts, contact information, payment schedules, and any specific requests or agreements. This ensures easy access to crucial information throughout the planning process and on the wedding day, helping you stay organized and effectively communicate with your vendors. Some of our highly recommend Vendors here.
Creating a Timeline
Months Before:
In the months leading up to your wedding, focus on completing important tasks such as booking vendors, sending invitations, and scheduling fittings. Use a wedding planning checklist to stay organized and track your progress as the big day approaches.
Weeks Before:
As the wedding day draws near, finalize details with your vendors, confirm guest counts, and prepare for any last-minute surprises. Take time to relax and enjoy special moments with your loved ones before the excitement of the wedding day begins.
Day-of Tips:
On the morning of your wedding, take time to pamper yourself and soak in the excitement of the day. Trust your vendors to handle the details, and focus on making memories with your partner and loved ones. Remember to stay hydrated, eat a nutritious meal, and take breaks as needed to stay refreshed throughout the day.
IMPORTANT: Delegate Tasks: Assign specific tasks to trusted friends or family members to handle any last-minute details or emergencies, allowing you to focus on enjoying the day.
Picking the Bridal Party:
Choose individuals who are supportive, reliable, and have played a meaningful role in your lives.
Consider the dynamics between potential members and ensure they get along well to promote harmony throughout the planning process.
Don't feel obligated to match the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Focus on selecting people who genuinely care about you both, regardless of numbers.
Self-Care:
Prioritize self-care leading up to the wedding day to manage stress and maintain well-being.
Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or taking leisurely walks to help alleviate wedding planning tensions.
Get enough sleep, eat healthily, and stay hydrated to ensure you look and feel your best on the big day.
Celebrating Your Unique Relationship:
Incorporate personal touches into your wedding day to reflect your unique love story and shared interests.
Write personalized vows that speak to the journey you've shared as a couple and your hopes for the future.
Choose meaningful music, readings, and ceremony rituals that resonate with your relationship and values.
Take moments throughout the day to pause and reflect on the significance of your commitment to each other, celebrating the love and connection that brought you together.
videography: pros & cons
Wedding videography is the art of capturing the essence and emotion of a couple's special day through video. It goes beyond mere documentation, weaving together moments of anticipation, love, and celebration into a cohesive narrative that tells the story of their union. With professional equipment and expertise, videographers capture not only the visual beauty of the ceremony and reception but also the sounds, emotions, and atmosphere that make each wedding unique. From the heartfelt exchange of vows to the joyous celebrations with family and friends, wedding videography preserves the precious moments and memories that couples will cherish for a lifetime, allowing them to relive the magic of their wedding day over and over again. Check out our packages here.
Benefits of Adding Videography:
Capturing Moving Moments: While photography captures still moments, videography adds another dimension by capturing the movement, emotions, and sounds of your special day. It allows you to relive the day in a more dynamic way, seeing and hearing the speeches, vows, and reactions as they happened.
Emotional Impact: Video has a unique ability to evoke emotions through motion and sound. Watching your wedding video can bring back the feelings and atmosphere of the day in a way that photography alone cannot.
Storytelling: A well-crafted wedding video tells the story of your day from start to finish, capturing not only the key moments but also the little details and interactions that make your wedding unique.
Sharing with Absent Guests: For guests who couldn't attend the wedding, a video allows them to experience the day vicariously and feel like they were a part of the celebration.
Memories for Generations: A wedding video becomes a cherished keepsake that you can watch and share with future generations, preserving the memories of your wedding day for years to come.
Pros of Adding Videography:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Videography provides comprehensive coverage of your wedding day, capturing not only the visuals but also the sounds and emotions, allowing you to relive the day in its entirety.
- Dynamic Presentation: Video adds movement and audio to your wedding memories, creating a more dynamic and immersive experience than still photographs alone.
- Professional Editing: Experienced videographers often provide professional editing services, turning hours of footage into a polished and cinematic highlight reel or full-length feature film.
- Creative Expression: Videography allows for creative storytelling and artistic expression, with opportunities for cinematic effects, music selection, and narrative structure.
Cons of Adding Videography:
- Additional Cost: Videography adds an extra expense to your wedding budget, which may not be feasible for couples on a tight budget.
- Presence of Cameras: Some couples may feel self-conscious or distracted by the presence of cameras and videographers, impacting their ability to fully relax and enjoy the moment.
- Editing Time: The editing process for wedding videos can take time, so couples may need to wait several weeks or months to receive their final edited video.
ENGAGMENT
PHOTOGAPHY
VIDEOGRAPHY
PHOTO BOOTH
INVITAIONS
It's best to send out wedding invitations approximately 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. This timeframe gives your guests enough time to RSVP and make any necessary arrangements to attend your wedding. If you're having a destination wedding or if many of your guests will need to travel, consider sending out invitations even earlier, around 3-4 months in advance, to allow for extra planning time. Additionally, if you sent out save-the-date cards, aim to send out invitations shortly after to provide more detailed information about the wedding day.
Start Early: Begin designing and ordering your invitations well in advance to ensure you have ample time for revisions and mailing. Consider digital options such as wedding websites, which allow for quick updates and RSVP tracking.
Set the Tone: Choose a design that reflects the style and theme of your wedding. Whether you opt for traditional paper invitations or digital designs, make sure they convey the tone of your event to your guests.
Include Essential Information: Make sure your invitations include all necessary details, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. Utilize wedding websites to provide additional information, such as directions, accommodations, and registry details.
Personalize: Add personal touches to your invitations to make them unique to you as a couple. Whether it's custom monograms, hand-lettering, or digital animations on your wedding website, infuse your personality into the design.
Be Mindful of Budget: Wedding invitations can be costly, so consider digital options as a budget-friendly alternative. Digital invitations and wedding websites offer affordable solutions without compromising style or functionality.
Do something that suits you guys and your day.
Even ideas like magnet for the fridge or a wedding website can be really handy for guest.
Additional Information: Depending on your preferences and the style of your wedding, you may also want to include details such as dress code, reception information, and any other pertinent instructions for guests. Optional Extras: You can also consider adding additional inserts for directions, accommodation information, or details about pre-wedding events.
Getting designed and printed
You can DIY your wedding invitations by using website like Canva from templates they already have available and print at Wearhouse stationary or even online at Vistaprint or you can check out some amazing Location print company's here.
12 MONTH PLANNER GUIDE
12-18 Months
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can spend on the wedding and allocate funds to different aspects like venue, catering, attire, etc.
Create a Guest List: Compile a list of guests you want to invite to the wedding.
Choose a Date and Venue: Select a wedding date and book the ceremony and reception venues.
Hire Key Vendors: Book vendors such as a photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, and entertainment.
Start Dress Shopping: Begin looking for your wedding dress and attire for the bridal party.
Research Marriage Requirements: Check the legal requirements for getting married in your location.
Start Planning Honeymoon: Research and book your honeymoon destination and accommodations.
Consider Wedding Insurance: Look into wedding insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.
8-12 Months
Finalize Guest List: Complete your guest list and gather contact information.
Send Save the Dates: Send out save the date cards to inform guests of your wedding date.
Order Wedding Attire: Order your wedding dress and attire for the bridal party.
Book Remaining Vendors: Confirm bookings with vendors such as transportation, hair and makeup artists, and rental companies.
Plan Ceremony and Reception Details: Start planning ceremony and reception details such as decor, seating arrangements, and menu selections.
Begin Registry: Create a wedding registry and start adding items.
Arrange Accommodations: Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.
4-8 Months
Send Invitations: Send out wedding invitations with RSVP cards.
Finalize Menu: Finalize menu selections with the caterer.
Order Wedding Rings: Purchase wedding rings for the bride and groom.
Order Wedding Cake: Finalize details and order your wedding cake from the bakery.
Arrange Transportation: Arrange transportation for the wedding day for the bridal party and guests if needed.
Plan Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties: Coordinate bachelor and bachelorette parties with friends or family.
Finalize Details: Confirm all details with vendors and finalize timelines for the wedding day.
2-4 Months
Obtain Marriage License: Apply for a marriage license in your area.
Final Fittings: Schedule final fittings for wedding attire and ensure everything fits perfectly.
Purchase Wedding Accessories: Purchase accessories such as shoes, jewelry, and veil.
Plan Ceremony Details: Plan ceremony details such as vows, readings, and music selections.
Finalize Seating Arrangements: Create seating charts for the ceremony and reception.
Organize Wedding Day Timeline: Coordinate catch ups with vendors to finalize the wedding day timeline.
Vow writing: Take time to craft heartfelt vows that reflect the depth of your love and commitment to each other.
1 Week Before
Pack for Honeymoon: Pack for your honeymoon and confirm all travel arrangements.
Confirm Details: Confirm all details with vendors and provide them with the final timeline.
Coordinate with Bridal Party: Coordinate with the bridal party and distribute any necessary information or instructions.
Delegate Tasks: Assign tasks to trusted friends or family members to help with any last-minute details.
Get Plenty of Rest: Take time to relax and get plenty of rest before the big day.
Prepare Day-of Essentials: Prepare a day-of emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, tissues, and snacks.
Day before your wedding
Get Ready: Get ready for the day and lay out all your things and make sure you have everything you need.
Exchange Gifts: If your planning on exchanging gifts or a note or card for your loved one, key it up with best man/ MOH and timing too if you want it captured.
Rehearsal: Attend the wedding rehearsal to go over the ceremony logistics with your officiant, bridal party, and any other participants.
Setting up: are you setting up the day before, rally in all the trops and delegate, even if you set up one table so show how its down and just manage groups with a clipboard to do list to save the stress
Enjoy: Take time to savor each moment and enjoy the beginning of your journey together as a married couple.
Get a Good Night's Sleep: Try to get a full night's rest to feel refreshed and energized for the wedding day ahead.
Hair and Makeup Touch-ups: Bring along a small touch-up kit containing essentials like lipstick, powder, and blotting papers to freshen up throughout the day.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes that you can stand and walk in for long periods. Consider bringing a pair of flats or sandals for dancing later in the evening.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels.
Eat Regularly: Don't forget to eat regular meals and snacks to keep your energy up and prevent faintness or lightheadedness.
Mind Your Posture: Stand up straight and avoid slouching to maintain good posture in photos.
Avoid Bra Strap Marks: Use clear or nude-colored bra straps or opt for a strapless bra to avoid visible strap marks on your shoulders.
Schedule Breaks: Take short breaks throughout the day to relax, regroup, and soak in the special moments.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to help manage nerves and stay calm and centered throughout the day.
Remember to Breathe: Take deep breaths and pause to take in the significance of the day. Don't forget to enjoy every moment with your partner, family, and friends.
on the day
Most of all Enjoy your day and each other
