Prep Photos

On the day of the wedding, if you opt for Bride/Groom Prep Photos, we'll plan for me to arrive once most hair and makeup is done. Once I arrive, I'll start with some detail images of rings, dress, shoes, vows, etc. Then I'll make my way over to you and the bridal party. I'll capture some candids and some of the party helping the bride get ready. Once you're ready and dressed, we'll do some bridal portraits and some including family. Depending on if you've opted in for Groom Prep Photos and how far the location is, I may do the groom before or after the bride. The same will apply for the Groom and their party. I'll arrive near the end of everyone getting ready. I'll do some detail images, then some of the Groom alone, as well as with family.

Have a couple items ready for when I arrive so I can get right into photographing some details. I understand that not everyone will have these items and that's ok. But we ask that if you do have them, to bring them.

Some things to consider...

• Be mindful of the room you are getting ready in. Try to keep the location where we'll be photographing clean and organized. Also, try to get ready near a window with natural light. If that is not an option, no worries, I can always take the detail shots somewhere in the vicinity with better lighting.
• If you are renting a location such as a hotel room for the preparations, I highly encourage renting an Air BnB. Having a whole home with space is much less stressful and give better opportunity for photo options.
• For Brides, wear a cute robe or dress while you're getting make up and hair done. This will make the images much more luxurious.
• Also for Brides, bringing a cute wedding dress hanger with your soon-to-be last name adds some fun details to the shots. If you do not have one, a simple wooden hanger looks great too!
• It's helpful to keep all these detail items together in a small box while you are planning in the days leading up.
• If Groom Prep Photos are not part of your images, make sure to keep all engagement rings and wedding bands with the bridal items.

What is a First Look/First Touch?

A First Look is a private photo opportunity for you and your partner. Just before the ceremony, we'll pull the both of you aside and photograph your reveal to one another. We'll photograph the moment you see each other for the first time all dressed up. A little bit of a different take is a First Touch. This is for couples who want to keep the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the ceremony. What we'll do instead is have each of you on either side of a door or the corner of a building, so you cannot see each other. The idea is you will be able to hold hands. Here you are able to pray, read some vows, or simply say a few words to each other to calm the nerves.

Is it right for us?

This is something only you and your partner can decide. Personally I love doing them, but I also appreciate the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the alter. If you aren't sure if a First Look is right for you, allow me to help break it down for you.

• Calms you down.

Those pesky pre-wedding jitters are usually from the nerves of the "big moment" when the bride walks down the isle. Seeing each other for the first time in private will help calm some of those nerves. It's also a fun moment to enjoy each other's company before the rush the day will bring.

• Avoids bad weather/Saves time for Cocktail hour.

Here in Florida, rain is just part of our everyday lives. So if it is set to rain in the afternoon, pushing up your Bride+Groom Photos to a First Look would be a good idea. If you want to keep the tradition and not see each other, consider a First Touch session instead. Another bonus is that it frees up time after the ceremony. You'd be able to get you back to your friends and family to mingle during cocktail hour.

• If you're a crier, it gives you time to freshen up.

If you cry easily while simply watching cute puppy videos online like me, then I would recommend a First Look. There is nothing to be ashamed of for crying! It gives you such a special moment between you and your partner, away from everyone. Bonus is that you will have time to freshen up your makeup before the big reveal at the ceremony.

If you're still not sure, I've created some idea boards on Pinterest here.

The Wedding Day Timeline

A timeline is all the events of your wedding day planned out by time. Easy enough. From the start when you get ready to the very end when I have to leave. This is probably the most tedious part of your wedding planning. I know, it's stressful. But I am here to help! Your timeline is extremely important, not only for me but for you and the rest of the wedding party. A timeline will help keep everyone from running behind.

Something to remember about the timeline is to allow time for travel and traffic (if needed) and time for running behind. Essentially, try not to cram it all in. Allowing for extra time can be key to keeping your wedding on track. If there are aspects you want photographed and cannot seem to find the time, you can always call me and we can figure it out together. However, I am not a wizard (still waiting for my Hogwarts letter). Photos take time. Especially when trying to wrangle a large group of people. If we need to add more time to your package, that is always an option. A few months before your wedding day, I will send you your timeline.

A good starting point is to plan your ceremony 2-3 hours before sunset. Next, figure out the time of Reception and then lastly, a Sparkler Exit. For traveling times, add in travel from Prep to Ceremony, or Ceremony to Formal Photos and/or Reception. Then the next things to add would be Bride and/or Groom Photos, Any First Look or First Touch, parent reveals, Grand Entrances, or any other events you want us to photograph during the Reception.

Below are guidelines for how long each aspect of the wedding day will take. These are not set in stone and can be catered to your wants and likes. We can customize anything you want.