Wedding Day Guide

Engagement Shoot:

An engagement shoot is an absolute must-do before your big day, and here's why. One, it's all about capturing those genuine, down-to-earth moments where you're just being your selves. No need to squeeze into a fancy, snug dress or a stiff suit. Dress casual and comfy, like you do in your everyday lives.

Two, it's not just about the photos. This pre-wedding shoot is your chance to vibe with and get to know me on a more personal level. By the time your wedding day rolls around, you'll feel way more comfortable infront of the camera resulting in more authentic emotions.

Let's be real, posing for photos can feel super awkward. But here's the secret sauce: by having a shoot beforehand, you'll loosen up and realize that getting snapped can actually be a crazy fun experience. Trust me, it's a game-changer! On your wedding day, you'll be worry-free, and able to relax. So get ready to let loose and enjoy every damn moment!

Tip:

Choose a location thats special to you and your partner. This coule be the place you met, where you got engaged, or even a place you’ve always wanted to go together but never had the chance. Make these photos just as special as you wedding day photos.

The Dress:

This dress means so much to you and you want to see it on display in the best way. Grab a nice hanger (even a simple wooden one will do), take your dress out of its bag to breathe when you get to your dressing room and we can find a place to photograph it that suits your style.

tip:

Get a little creative by up-cycling your mother’s dress or find a thrifted gown. It's a beautiful way to honor tradition and give new life to a timeless piece. If you’re looking for sustainable options, check out Grace Loves Lace, or a made to order dress on Etsy, where you can find eco-friendly and ethically made gowns. And if you're not into the idea of keeping the dress forever, no worries! Rent-a-Runway offers stunning dresses for you to wear and return.

Let’s not forget to support local talent! Search for local designers in your area. Explore options to find the perfect dress that reflects your unique personality and values.

The Ceremony:

When it comes to picking your ceremony spot, most people focus solely on the backdrop, forgetting a crucial factor: the lighting during your ceremony. Trust me, it's way more important than you might think. Not only does it affect your comfort and that of your guests, but it also plays a major role in the quality of your photos. So, let's talk about the different lighting situations you need to know about:

1. Time of day

   Midday light can be a bit of a challenge, with its blazing brightness, harsh shadows, and those squinty eyes that nobody wants. So, here's the scoop: if you decide to have your ceremony at this time of day, consider setting up among the trees or find a cozy spot under some shade. Light will delicately filter through the branches, creating a stunningly speckled effect. So, let's aim for that dreamy, dappled lighting and make your wedding moments even more enchanting among nature.

2. Sun angles

   Early morning and evening sun gives us that dreamy, backlit glow that creates beautiful photos. If you're planning your ceremony during these magical times, angle the setup to the side of where the sun will rise or set. This way, you'll ensure that the sun's rays won't be blinding your guests. Alternatively, you can position the sun behind the guests' backs, creating a breathtaking backdrop of gradient colors in the sky. It's all about planning accordingly and making the most of nature's artistry. Websites like suncalc or sun seeker app can help you map out the exact location and timing of the sun's rise and set, allowing you to plan your ceremony with precision.

3. Weather

   While cloudy or shaded conditions may not be what you envisioned for your wedding day, they can actually lead to some pretty amazing photos. Surprisingly enough, these circumstances offer even, soft, diffused light, showing more details without any harsh shadows to worry about. So, don't let the lack of sunshine dampen your spirits, because these moments can result in truly remarkable captures.

4. Shadows

   Consider a ceremony location that is fully shaded for soft, even lighting. This way, you'll achieve that dreamy, romantic atmosphere with no harsh shadows or glaring sunlight. However, if shaded areas aren't available or don't match your vision, embrace the sun! Just be aware that a mix of sun and shade can lead to tricky photos with contrasting dark and light areas. Plus, if it's a sunny day, your guests might end up battling for a seat in the shaded spots to escape the heat.

5. Indoors

   If you opt for an indoor ceremony, consider a location with tons of natural light. Embrace the beauty of big windows and let the sunlight take over by turning off all of the indoor lights. This way, you'll create the perfect environment for capturing higher-quality photos. Natural light has a magical way of illuminating the scene.

Tip:

When it's time to make your grand exit from the ceremony, instead of the traditional confetti, try using nature's own elements. Imagine guests tossing bags of fragrant lavender, dried flower petals, or even leaf cutouts created by punching holes in vibrant foliage. It's a whimsical and eco-friendly way to create a stunning exit scene that will leave everyone in awe.

Unplugged Wedding:

You know what I'm talking about—the iPads, phones, and camera flashes that can sometimes steal the spotlight. Here's the plan: kindly request that your wedding be an "unplugged" affair. Ask the person officiating your ceremony to make an announcement, inviting everyone to stow away their electronic devices and fully immerse themselves in the moment without any distrations. Trust me, it's worth it!

Don't worry about those precious memories being lost. As your dedicated photographer, I'll capture every significant detail and heartfelt moment. Later on, you can share the stunning photos I take with your loved ones, allowing them to relive the magic and beauty of your special day.

tip:

Scatter disposable cameras on each table, inviting your guests to become the photographers themselves. It's a brilliant way to see your celebration from their perspective and capture candid shots throughout the night.

Or, consider renting a photo booth. It's the perfect opportunity for your guests to connect, have a blast, and leave with personalized mementos that will forever remind them of this incredible experience.

Reception:

Lighting is so important at the reception as well. When it comes to soft, dreamy lighting, string lights are going to be your best friend, which also make for amazing photos! Bad florescent or DJ lighting can distract from the romantic feel, and a dim lit room may cause photos to turn out grainy with very little detail. So, deck the place out with candles and string lights to avoid dark, low quality photos.

tip:

Consider thrifting dinnerware for the reception if you want something more original. This may only work for smaller weddings but could be fun to mix things up. Try making your centre pieces from nature such as driftwood, seashells, old bottles, etc. Write guest names on rocks or leaves for their seat savers.

Couples Portraits:

Regardless of when you plan to have your one-on-one photos with your partner, make sure to set aside some dedicated time for it. While we'll be moving around to different locations, capturing those special moments, give your guests a chance to relax and enjoy themselves with a drink while you and your beloved take about 20-30 minutes in the spotlight.

Embrace the camera, take a deep breath, and melt into each other's arms. Once you're lost in the magic of the moment, you won't even notice me anymore. It's all about capturing genuine, heartfelt memories that will come alive in your photos. Just be yourselves, let your love shine, and have a blast together.

tip:

If you want to fully enjoy your wedding day without worrying about a photoshoot, I have a great solution for you: consider scheduling a day after couples shoot. This option is available as an add-on and highly recommended. It allows you to be fully present on your wedding day while still having the opportunity to capture those beautiful photos at a more convenient time. So, take the stress off your big day and let's plan a special photoshoot to capture those magical moments after the wedding!

Timeline:

It's essential to allocate time in your schedule to account for unexpected mishaps (because they're bound to happen). Don't consider it a negative thing, but rather a reminder to avoid overpacking your day with excessive details. Remember, your wedding day is meant to be enjoyable and stress-free. So, it's crucial to plan for tasks taking longer than anticipated and allow yourself some breathing room.

tip:

If you're not planning on a first look, here's an alternative: find a spot where you can be close, but still maintain that element of surprise. Stand back to back, hold hands, or even take a shot together without actually seeing each other. This way, you can calm those nerves while still honoring tradition.

If you're all about embracing tradition, no worries! Just make sure to adjust your timeline to allow some extra time for couples portraits.

The Venue:

Airbnb/VRBO

If you're aiming for an intimate and cozy vibe, the possibilities for your venue are endless. Consider the charm and convenience of an Airbnb or VRBO rental. These accommodations not only provide a comfortable place to stay, but they can also serve as stunning locations for getting ready and exchanging vows. The added bonus, everyone will feel right at home, creating a sense of togetherness and warmth.

National and Provincial Parks

National and provincial parks offer a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding, combining natural beauty, serene landscapes, and a sense of adventure. You can plan a hike to a scenic viewpoint, have a lakeside ceremony, or even exchange vows in a secluded meadow. Remember, when planning a wedding in a national park, be sure to familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations, obtain any necessary permits, and respect the natural surroundings.

Public or Crown Land

Public lands encompass a wide range of protected areas, including national forests, wildlife refuges, state parks, and more. They are designed to be accessible to the public, making them a convenient option for hosting a wedding. Compared to private venues, public lands often provide more budget-friendly options, allowing you to allocate your resources to other aspects of your wedding. Additionally, public lands typically offer more privacy and seclusion compared to crowded urban venues. When planning your wedding on public lands, ensure you follow any guidelines or permit requirements set by the managing agency.

Backyards and Campsites:

Backyards offer an intimate and personal setting for your wedding, where you can create a warm and familiar atmosphere. They provide a sense of comfort and convenience, allowing you to customize the space to reflect your style and preferences. With the flexibility to design your own outdoor oasis, backyards offer a unique and often more laid back, fun atmosphere. Campsites are another space that can accommodate a lot of people, while making everything feel more intimate and fun!

tip:

You can make just about any space work for a wedding. If you need food, rent a food truck. Chairs can also be rented, or have your guests stand if its a short ceremony. The options are endless. Search blogs like Green Wedding Shoes, Junebug Weddings, The Venue Report, Off Beat Wed, or even using apps like Pinterest can help give you some venue ideas.

Wedding Weekend:

Having a wedding weekend can be an awesome experience as it allows you to extend the celebration and create more memories with your loved ones. It provides ample time for quality interactions, and fun activities beyond just the wedding day itself. Additionally, a wedding weekend gives you the opportunity to relax, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in the festivities, making it a worthwhile investment for a truly memorable and enjoyable wedding experience. If this is your vibe, I offer add-on hours for night before or day after shoots to include more festivities such as bonfires, beach parties, games nights, swimming, or whatever it may be, you can do it however you like!

Most of all, Have Fun!

Your wedding day is all about coming together with your one true love, surrounded by your nearest and dearest. But let's not forget the most important part: having the most fun you’ve ever had! This is your chance to let loose, make incredible memories, and create a day filled with laughter and joy. So, dance like nobody's watching, savor delicious moments, and cherish every precious second. This is your time to shine, to celebrate love, and to embrace the pure happiness that radiates from you. Get ready to have the time of your lives and make this day the ultimate celebration of fun and love!