I recommend you START EARLY! you’ll probably need an hour & a half to get ready. I will capture all the little details, things like, your bouquet, rings, accessories (give your maid of honour the task of preparing these for you)
TIP: ask your bridesmaids to be ready by the time the photographer arrives so they can look pretty for the photos when helping you get into your dress. Try to remove clutter that will be a distraction in pictures. Have as much available light as possible (window light is AMAZING)
2. Bridal portraits & Wedding Party Photos
Once everyone is ready & looking fabulous, it’s a good time to do some gorgeous bridal portraits ( allow 30 mins) as well as pictures with your bridemaids, mom, dad & anyone else that will be in your room before you leave for the ceremony. If the groom is getting ready at the same location I will do the same for him.
3. Ceremony
Every ceremony is different. It’s best to let your photographer know how long it will be & if any special traditions will take place (lighting of candles etc)
TIP: If your ceremony is outdoors, try to be shaded or if possible with the sun behind you. This will prevent you from squinting & make for more flattering images
4. Family/formal photos
You can choose to do these straight after the ceremony while everyone is together (I suggest restricting these to just immediate family) or if your reception is at a different location you can do these & other formal portraits during your cocktail hour. The choice is yours.
5. Decor shots
These are best done before your guests enter the reception area. Ask your coordinator to have the space ready (if that’s not possible then just one table set up will do)
I will sneak away to do these pictures while you are greeting your family and friends & having a quick glass of bubbly & snack before I steal you away for the couple shoot.
6. Couple Shoot
We will need 30-40 mins away from everyone for the couple shoot, this will give you some (ALMOST) private time with your new spouse while I capture the magic between you. We probably won’t have that dreamy sunset light at this stage but If you don’t mind we can sneak away again during sunset for 15 mins just to get that golden romantic light that will create pictures you are sure to LOVE!
7. Time for your Grand Entrance
This is time for the formalities to begin, relax, enjoy the moment, it will be gone all to quickly.
TIP: serve your starters before the speeches, nothing worse than hungry guests. Once your main meal is served it’s best to allow your vendors to take a break & eat at the same time. This gives them time to rejuvenate & be back before the action starts.
8. First dance, cake cutting, garter & bouquet are to follow. Once all these are done its time to PARTY!
One final tip.
Take it ALL in, all your hard work paid off, its YOUR day, enjoy it, these memories will last forever & if you find it hard to remember some things, you have beautiful pictures to look back on & remind you of your special day
As Promised
Taryn B xx
