Trust me, I got you.
I've been doing this a long time so here's some advice to help your day go smoothly.
01. Do a first look!
Excuse me, Lauryn? How dare you tell me what to do! It's my wedding day!
This is true. I will OF COURSE support you if you'd like to stick to tradition & have the ceremony be the grand reveal. However, it's highly beneficial to do a first look earlier in the day. Why, you ask? Here we go..
01
It's an adorable & private moment. There's something special about it just being the two of you (and me, haha). The reaction is sincere without having to worry about who's watching you.
02
It allows us to take your wedding party, couple & family portraits (I call this the trifecta) before your ceremony. In turn, you will be able to attend your cocktail hour & go mingle with your guests which frees you up for more dance time at the reception!
03
It gives us WAY more time to get photos. I recommend 2.5-3 hours to complete the trifecta. It can get chaotic trying to cram it all into one hour and you for sure won't get nearly as many couple photos (which I think are the most important of the day).
02. THINK ABOUT LOCATION
Does the hotel you plan on getting ready at have ugly carpeting? Dated wallpaper? This location is where I will take all of your detail, hair, makeup & bridal portrait shots. Consider renting a modern AirBnB instead. Something with natural light & dark walls is always a plus! You won't regret it. It really makes a huge difference.
03. DON'T GO LAST FOR HAIR & MAKEUP
Have yourself penciled in to go last for your hair and makeup? Bump yourself up to third to last. Hair and makeup can run behind schedule and when it's time for your first look I will need you to be ready to go, not your maid of honor. Plus you'll look great in the getting-ready shots and it gives you time to let everything set and do a few touchups!
04. GET THOSE FLORALS IN THE AM
Make sure your florist drops off your flowers early enough that they will be available for the detail shots in the morning. I love to get shots of your rings with the bouquet. Speaking of rings! Make sure the best man doesn't have the rings in the morning. I will need them for the detail shots. Also, ask your florist if it would be possible to throw in a few loose flowers or greens for me to use in my detail shots. Never hurts to ask!
Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you need any guidance!
That's what I am here for.
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