Wedding THE
Guide
for the Stephanie Messick Bride & Groom
W ELCO M E! � Hello Bride-to-be and Welcome! This is such an exciting time for you! I’m sure your mind is racing with all that needs to be planned. It’s all very exciting , but it can also be somewhat overwhelming. You’re planning the day that you’ve been anticipating your whole life and yet you only get one shot at it! By the time you get the hang of it, the planning is over! My goal as a wedding photographer is to make this one aspect of the planning processs simple and stress-free. Photography is more than just images, it’s a real part of your day. Not only do you deserve beautiful images, you also deserve an amazing photographic experience. The goal of this guide is to help you plan your wedding day in a way that will allow me to provide you with the BEST experience possible. Since we’re official, the next step is to plan your engagement session and then start chatting about wedding day details as we get closer to your date! I am beyond excited to document your love story!! I cannot wait to get to know you two during your engagement session and beyond!
Xoxo,
Steph
table of
CO NT EN TS 6
Engagement
13
Wedding Timeline
18
Pre-Ceremony
21
Bridal Detail Checklist
28
First Look
35
Ceremony
38
Family Formals
39
Wedding Party
41
Bride and Groom Portraits
47
Reception Details
49
Reception
53
Delivery Timeline
55
Stress-Free Tips
57
Preferred Vendors
—5—
�
your
E N G AG E MENT S ES S IO N Now that you have picked a date, a venue, and a photographer,
wedding day already knowing how you two interact, what your
you can celebrate! Those are some of the toughest decisions
best poses are and how to photograph you in a genuine way!
in wedding planning and you can cross them off your list!
What I will learn about you during your engagement session is
Hooray!! Now onto the fun stuff.... like your engagement
invaluable! You will feel like such a pro on your big day because
session! I include engagement sessions in my wedding packages
of the great practice you had during your engagement session,
because I truly believe that they are a VITAL part of the entire
and that’s how it should be! And whether you are planning to
process.
During your engagement session, you’ll have the
use these photos for your save the dates, your wedding guest
chance to get to know me, experience how I shoot and how I
sign-in book or table decor at your wedding, this is an excellent
handle posing and lighting. This session will make a HUGE
opportunity to have recent photos done!
impact on how the wedding day flows. I’ll arrive on your
Approximate Start Times WINTER Dec.–Mar. 3:30-5pm
SUMMER Jun.–Aug. 7:00-8:30pm
During December through mid-March you can plan on your
Summer engagements, just like all engagements, take place
engagement session taking place around 3:30-5pm. However,
1.5-hours before sunset. This will hopefully mean that the
the time changes in mid-March and so that will make the start
shoot will be during the cooler part of the day.
time one hour later.
SPRING Apr.–May. — Varies
FALL Sept.–Nov. — Varies
The sunset time drastically changes throughout the course of
The sunset time changes drastically during these three months.
these two months and so our shooting times change as well.
In Sept, you can plan on 6:00-7:30pm until the third week and
You can plan on approximately 6:00-7:30pm in April and
then you can plan on 5:30-7:00pm until Mid- Oct. After the
7:30-8:00pm in May.
first week of Nov, 3:30-5:00pm.
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A Few Things to Keep in Mind...
1
6
Don’t try to MATCH...try to pick outfits and accessories that
Make sure you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing. And
coordinate instead. If everyone wore the same exact color at
ladies, if the top is super low cut, that will limit the amount of
their e-shoot, how boring would those images be?
angles I can shoot from.
2 Accessorize and make your outfits your own! Scarves, bold necklaces and fun shoes are always welcomed!
7 BE ON TIME! The sun is only out for so long ! The later you arrive, the less time we have to shoot! And nobody wants that!
3
8
MOST PATTERNS are actually ok.... however, graphics are
Be sure to check out the digital style guide for more ideas!
not favorable for portraits. If you’re wearing a pattern, make
9
sure it’s not overwhelming and distracting.
Clean the ring! I love to shoot a few rings shots while you
4
change outfits! The cleaner the better!
Empty your pockets! Literally. You don’t want to have key chains or phones showing through your pockets.
10 Relax! You don’t have to be a pro at this! I’m going to help you along the way and it’s going to be a blast! Enjoy this time
5 Most often, couples like to have one casual, everyday outfit and
together, and make a date out of it! Plan dinner afterwards and
then one outfit that is dressier! This will give your shoot two totally different “looks”. We can figure out which outfit will look the best to start and end the session.
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celebrate!!
The Rundown... I photograph engagement sessions on weekday evenings because our weekends are dedicated to photographing weddings! I love shooting at gorgeous locations. I recommend two locations max for engagements. A general rule of thumb is the more locations and outfits, the less images, but the more variety you’ll have! I can do sunrise sessions if necessary! I require sunrise shoots for those who want to take portraits in a very crowded location like the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC. I love to travel to my shoots! However, if I have never been to your desired location, I may need some advice on where to park!
—8—
preparing
YOU R GRO O M If you’re a bride that is a little anxious about
groom know what to expect. First of all, I highly
how your groom is going to react to this whole
recommend sitting down with your guy and
“picture” thing, you’re not alone. We receive so
showing him 2-3 of your favorite engagement
many emails from brides who are worried that
sessions that I have photographed. Spend some
their groom won’t be into it and I have great news
time together scrolling through a few blog posts,
for you.... you both are more photogenic than
this will allow him to gauge what his expectations
you think! I am constantly surprising couples by
should be.
discovering their hidden modeling skills and our
for plenty of time to get to your shoot! There
most common response from my SMP grooms is
is nothing worse than when a couple shows up
“That wasn’t as bad as I thought! It was actually
late, and they have been arguing in the car! That
fun”. Boom! Mission accomplished! When the
is definitely going to put your groom in a bad
groom says that taking pictures was FUN, I have
mood! Last but not least, remember to have
done my job well! Your engagement session is
patience with him, and don’t assume that he’s
supposed to be fun and relaxed, not forced or
not going to have a good time... I think you’ll
awkward. As you prepare for your shoot, there
be surprised how much you will both enjoy your
are a few things that you can do to help your
session with me!
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I also recommend that you allow
your
WEDD I N G D AY
wedding
T IM EL IN E One of the most beneficial ways to ensure a relaxing day is to
**These sample timelines are based on an all-in-one venue
have a well structured yet forgiving timeline. Forgiving because
(prepping/ceremony/reception). If traveling is required between
let’s be honest, rarely is a wedding exactly ON time. It is
places, we will need to customize your schedule to make this work
important for the timing to be customized and tailored to work
with distance as well as possible traffic.
with your events, which is why no two weddings are the same.
T r a diti o n a l R E V E A L T i m eli n e 2:30 PM
Bridal Detail Photos
6:35 PM Introductions
2:45 PM
Hair and Makeup Complete
6:40 PM
First Dance
6:45 PM
Welcome Speech + Blessing
(Everyone) 3:00 PM
Bridal Prepping
3:30 PM
Bridesmaid Portraits
3:55 PM
Bride Hides!
4:00 PM
Groomsmen Portraits
4:30 PM
Reception Details
5:00 PM Ceremony 5:40 PM
Family Formals
(Imediate Family) 5:50 PM
Wedding Party Group Photos
6:00 PM
Bride and Groom Portraits
6:30 PM
Reception Begins
6:50 PM Dinner **TBD
Sunset Portraits (5–10 minutes)
7:45 PM Toasts 7:50 PM
Parent Dances
7:55 PM
Dance Floor Opens
9:00 PM
Cake Cutting
9:05 PM
Dance Floor Opens
10:00 PM
Bouquet + Garter Toss
10:05 PM
Dance Floor Opens
10:25 PM
Grand Exit!
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F irst Lo o k T i m eli n e 2:30 PM
Bridal Detail Photos
7:05 PM Introductions
2:45 PM
Hair and Makeup Complete
7:10 PM
First Dance
7:15 PM
Welcome Speech + Blessing
(Everyone) 3:00 PM
Bridal Prepping
3:45 PM
First Look
4:15 PM
Bridesmaid Portraits
4:30 PM
Wedding Party Group Photos
4:45 PM
Groomsmen Portraits
5:00 PM
Reception Details
5:30 PM Ceremony 6:10 PM
Family Formals (Imediate Family)
6:20 PM
Bride and Groom Portraits
6:30 PM
B+G Enjoy Cocktail Hour
(optional) 7:00 PM
7:20 PM Dinner **TBD
Sunset Portraits (5–10 minutes)
8:15 PM Toasts 8:20 PM
Parent Dances
8:25 PM
Dance Floor Opens
9:15 PM
Cake Cutting
9:20 PM
Dance Floor Opens
10:00 PM
Bouquet + Garter Toss
10:05 PM
Dance Floor Opens
10:25 PM
Grand Exit!
Reception Begins
— 14 —
W E D D I NGS & S EAS O NS WINTER, SPRING, SUMMER & FALL WINTER
SUMMER
Winter weddings are gorgeous! However, they do
Summer weddings are amazing! I love that there
take some additional planning simply because of
is so much daylight! In some months, the light
the sunset time. The hard part about a winter
will last until 8:30pm!
timeline is the fact that the sun sets around 4pm.
summer wedding, you’ll need to plan on having a
This means that all of your portraits have to be
few minutes to slip out of the reception for your
done before then! This isn’t a problem if you’re
sunset portraits! You will NOT regret this! This is
having a late afternoon wedding. However, if
the absolute best light of the day and you’re going
you’re planning on having a late evening wedding,
to want to have portraits during this time period.
you may have a bit of down time from 4pm until
Usually these portraits happen during dinner or
the start of the ceremony. You will also need more
open dancing so that no one even notices that
coverage time as well.
you’re gone for a few minutes!
SPRING
So, if you’re having a
FALL
Spring weddings are wonderful because they are
Fall weddings are my favorite!
the perfect temperature! However, I recommend
temperature and the colors! Most of my fall brides
having plenty of Claritin and Zyrtec on hand just
worry about color, and I just want to encourage
in case allergies start to flare up during portrait
you that all I need is one tree with some color in
time.
Spring weddings normally mean the
order to make it look like fall! A little bit of color
potential for some blooms! If we happen to find
can go a long way!! Your portrait time will vary
any type of blooming tree or plant, it will be worth
depending on your wedding date! We’ll be sure to
it to give us a few minutes for portraits with it!
discuss this when we approve your final timeline!
You’ll LOVE the result!
— 15 —
I love the
G E T TIN G READY It’s the morning of your wedding! Hopefully all
Will you and your groom be exchanging gifts
of the little details are taken care of and you’re
during this time? If so, who would you like to
relaxing with your best friends while your hair is
deliver them? Are there certain women in your life
being done. If certain items haven’t been checked
who would appreciate seeing you get into your
off of the to-do list, it’s time to hand them over to
gown? Some brides want very few people around
someone else. Delegation is a key part of a stress-
for this moment. Other brides love having aunts
free wedding day. I know it’s hard to hand over the
and grandmas present! It’s totally up to you! A
decorating duties and all of the last minute things
few other things to consider.... as you get ready
that need to be done, but it really is important to
to put your dress on, refrain from putting any
relax the morning of your wedding. The rest of
jewelry on. I love shooting all of those final steps
the day is going to be fast paced and filled with
once you’re in your gown! Speaking of the gown,
a lot of emotions! Take advantage of this down
if your gown is on a plastic hanger, try to make a
time! There are a few things to consider about the
note to bring a wooden hanger along for picture
“getting ready” portion of the day. Do you want
sake. If you forget, no big deal! I carry a wooden
to share a “first look” with your dad or any other
hanger w! Keep reading along for more “getting
person who plays a huge role in your life?
ready” tips to help you prepare!
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the
W I N D OW EF F ECT �
By having just a simple window in the bridal prep area, I am able to create beautiful portraits with soft light. I prefer natural light so the more windows, the better!
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bridal
DETAIL S � Why is it important to photograph bridal jewelry, shoes, dress,
If you have a themed wedding (like seashells for a beach
etc.? Think about how these details change from generation to
wedding), I would love for you to provide details to incorporate
generation. I enjoy looking through my parent’s album and
with the checklist. I will bring my style kit with me that works
admire what was popular during the 80s. What if your future
for any wedding, but if you have a ribbon that goes with your
children/grandchildren had that same experience? These little
color scheme or a flower that matches your bouquet, that’s a
details not only share the style of today, but your personality.
perfect addition!
— 21 —
Detail Checklist (please collect all of your details before I arrive so that I can begin quickly and have more time for some “getting ready” shots of you and your girls!
☐ Dress Out of bag, tags taken off, stuffing
taken out and placed on nice hanger.
☐ Veil / Hair Pieces ☐ Shoes ☐ Garter ☐ Rings Both wedding bands + engagement
☐ All jewelry Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, etc.
☐ Any sweet letters from the groom/bride
☐ Perfume
☐ Gifts for the bridesmaids/ (if given by the bride)
☐ Invitation set with envelopes + any additional stationery ☐ Special Details (Something borrowed and blue) ☐ Bouquet and Boutonnieres
— 12 —
☐ Themed Element An extra flower and a detail that
matches the wedding theme
When you’re planning a wedding day timeline, the best advice I could give is to ADD CUSHION TIME! Sometimes the most simple things can take an extra 20 minutes and then all of a sudden, the whole morning is thrown off. I have seen “getting the bride in her dress” take almost 40 minutes because of a button malfunction. It’s a smart idea to add in an extra ten minutes here and there so that we have some wiggle room to work with! This way, if one part of the day gets thrown off by 20 minutes, I can help you compensate that time in other areas. There are so many different things to think about when you’re planning a wedding day, and so here are some tips for the preceremony timeline! I realize that every single wedding day is different and so not all of these tips will apply to every wedding day schedule. Something else to consider is that not EVERYTHING will go as planned, and I promise you, that is completely normal!!
BOUQUETS AND BOUTS
TRAVEL TIME
HAIR & MAKEUP
GROOMSMEN PREP
You will need your Bouquet &
Be sure to think about the
I encourage brides to have
If you have a second shooter a
Bouts for your First Look! Have
travel time and TRAFFIC to
at least their makeup done
part of your package, she will
them delivered to the room
and from your getting ready
before I start because who
photograph the guys getting
where the bride is getting ready.
location and your venue!
wants a ton of shots without
ready if they are at the same
their makeup on?! Nobody.
location as the bride or closeby!
— 23 —
T IM ING tips
GETTING IN THE DRESS
CREATE A CUSHION
I’ll instruct you to get into your
A 10 minute cushion every
dress close to a window and it
now and then is a GREAT
would be fabulous to have your
idea! It’s amazing how fast
bridemaids dressed when you’re
time slips away the day of!
getting in your gown!
— 24 —
THE BRIDAL BOUQUET There are so many expenses when it comes to wedding planning. Many brides have to prioritize what they want to invest in. I just want to give a little tip that can save money and make a huge impact on the way your images turn out. If you’re having trouble making a decision about your florals, here is what I suggest. I recommend making your bridal bouquet a big priority! When I’m photographing a wedding, if the bride has a gorgeous bouquet, I can make the entire day look like there were beautiful florals everywhere! I can use the bridal bouquet to spruce up bridal details, reception details AND even bride and groom portraits as well! The bridal bouquet is a focal point for me when it comes to your photography, and so I highly recommend getting your DREAM bouquet and investing less on the bridesmaids bouquets since they will not be photographed nearly as much!
— 25 —
VEIL OPTIONS Since 90% of my couples opt for a First Look, we have options for the bridal veil! I recommend that the bride only wear her veil when she comes down the aisle and I recommend this for three different reasons. 1. This is something new for your groom to see when you’re walking down the aisle! 2. A lot of times, during a First Look, the groom is so excited to see his bride that he accidently pulls the veil out when he throws his arms around her! And 3. Saving the veil for the ceremony ensures that I will get some “Just Married” portrait time with the couple because EVERY bride needs to have a “Veil Blowing in the Wind” shot of their own! This isn’t a rule that we ask all brides to follow, it’s simply a suggestion that we make after having photographed over 175+ weddings!
your
F I RS T LO O K � Your first look is an amazing part of your wedding day! If you aren’t sure about this tradition, the next few pages will explain why it would be a romantic addition to your wedding day celebration that not only adds to the experience but also reduces stress. Please know that we would never want any of our couples to feel pressured to go with this option. However, we do want to make sure that we share all of the benefits of a first look, because there is a reason 90% of our couples do this and LOVE it!
— 28 —
the first look
E X P L AINED �
Some brides love “traditions”…. but what a bride REALLY wants
his que from the coordinator. It seems like it’s taking FOREVER.
when it comes to her groom seeing her for the first time, is a
Finally, the coordinator leans her head in and hurries the groom to
REACTION. Those who are not interested in a First Look usually
get ready. With clammy hands, the groom enters the ceremony and
think that by seeing each other beforehand, they will lose part of
what does he find? …. He finds anywhere from 80-300 people and
that reaction. They also assume that it will not be as emotional or as
they’re all looking where? Right at his face… because everyone has
intimate as it would be if they were coming down the aisle. Everyone
expectations and anticipation about his first reaction. This is the
knows that wedding days are a bit stressful for the bride and groom.
farthest thing from a private, intimate moment.
The whole day is focused on them, they need to look their best, they
For most grooms, the nerves kick in before they see their bride
need to be on time, the groom has no idea what side the boutonniere
because when they see her, everything becomes VERY real! So
is supposed to go on and little by little… the tension grows.
when the nerves start creeping up, instead of keeping the groom
It’s before the ceremony and the gravity of what is about to happen starts to sink in and the calm, collected groom who was playing golf just a few short hours ago is now starting to feel a little anxious. So what happens next? The groom waits in a little room somewhere for
in a secluded space until his time to enter the ceremony, what if you took him to a private place… no people, no on-lookers, no distractions…. and you let his beautiful bride, the love of his life, quietly call his name and have him turn around to see her for the
— 29 —
first time. He would turn around and finally get his first look
After portraits are done, the girls and guys separate and prepare for
at his stunning bride and not only would he get to see her… he
the ceremony. The guests begin to arrive and the ushers are in place.
could embrace her… cry with her…. kiss her… and ENJOY that
Pretty soon it’s time for the processional music to begin and one
moment with her for as LONG as they wanted. As she shows him
by one, the bridesmaids make their way down to the front of the
her dress, twirls a few times and then asks him what he thinks… his
ceremony. As the groom clasps his hands… they aren’t clasped out
nerves start to diminish. After all, she’s the one who can make him
of nervousness but excitement. The music builds, the mother of the
most comfortable anyway.
bride stands and all of the guests follow her lead. The groom looks
Because they aren’t on a time crunch… they casually move into their romantic portraits. No one is around, the coordinator isn’t announcing “15 minutes left”, and there is no pressure. It’s just the
up, and here comes the BRIDE!!! His best friend, his companion, his sweetheart…..she’s stunning…. ABSOLUTELY stunning. The closer she gets, the bigger he smiles.
two of them and their photographer capturing the excitement and
Now let me put a disclaimer on here before we continue…my
the joy of their wedding day. This is their time to be TOGETHER…
clients are not required to do a First Look by any means! I used
and to be ALONE. When does that happen on a wedding day?
to feel bad for sharing this option with couples who were against
Without a First Look… it doesn’t. After their romantic portraits
it, because I didn’t want to push anything on them. However, I’ve
are done, they meet up with their best friends. Their wedding
seen the benefits of a first look over and over again, and so I only
party joins them and because they still have plenty of time to spare
share this because I want the BEST for my couples!! It’s totally ok
and the bride has time to touch up a little makeup while the boys
if couples choose not to share a first look! It’s just my preference to
act like boys. After a few minutes the bridal party portraits begin
do one for many reasons.... Keep reading to find out more of the
and we have time to have FUN! There aren’t any guests waiting
benefits of sharing your first look privately! For brides not interested
impatiently at the cocktail hour and there isn’t a DJ coming to find
in a First Look, let’s start chatting soon about how we’ll create a
the photographer to get a time check. It’s wonderful!
special timeline to fit everything in!
Something to Consider Planning to hang photos from your First Look around your home? You might want to consider wearing your wedding bands!
— 30 —
why it’s
WO RT H IT
40% MORE
ENJOY THE
PORTRAITS
SURPRISE FREELY
DIMINISHES NERVES
You’re investing a lot into your wedding
You actually get to have intimate time on
You get rid of your nerves! I’d say,
photography. With a first look, you’ll
your wedding day with your man. Most
literally 1/2 of my couples who have
receive 40% MORE portraits of the
brides don’t realize that when you come
decided to do a first look, the grooms
two of you… and those are the images
down the aisle and totally SHOCK him
were not fans of it at first. However,
you will decorate your first home with!
with your gorgeous-ness… he can’t even
because they have never experienced
With a first look, you make the most
tell you how amazing you look. He
their wedding day before, they didn’t
out of this large investment and get the
can’t touch you, embrace you or even
know how nerve racking it can be. I
most for your money.
SPEAK to you. You have to wait until
have testimonials from so many grooms
30 minutes later when the ceremony
who initially weren’t a fan of the first
is over for him to react and tell you
look... but afterwards admitted to being
how amazing you look. And after 30
SO much more relaxed and ready for
minutes of the ceremony, the reaction
the ceremony!
isn’t the same as the initial first glance.
— 31 —
EXTEND YOUR DAY
YOUR ONLY
BY THREE HOURS
TIME ALONE
First Looks allow you to extend your wedding day. Normally the
First Looks allow you to be TOGETHER and alone on your
wedding day would start when you come down the aisle, then
wedding day. Not only is it intimate, it might be your only time
the ceremony would end, you would rush through portraits so
to be alone the whole day! It can set the PERFECT mood for
that you’re not late for the introductions and then it’s reception
your romantic portraits. Normally portraits are a little rushed
time. With a first look, your wedding day is extended by almost
after the family formals, and it can be hard to really get back
3 hours! Instead of being rushed for your bridal party portraits…
into that “lovey dovey” mode…. especially with family around!
you actually get to enjoy them and have fun hanging out with
When you have just shared your first look, you’re READY
your BEST friends on your wedding day. The WHOLE first
to love on each other, and I always capture some super sweet
half of my client’s wedding albums are filled with images just
images during those moments!
from this time together before the ceremony.
— 32 —
the daddy + daughter
F I RS T LO O K This is for all of the brides who have a sweet spot in their heart for their dad. I have to admit that Daddy/Daughter first looks make me a little teary. For a lot of dads, this is when everything feels real and it hits him... “My baby girl is getting MARRIED!” These are precious moments to photograph and I highly encourage any daddy’s girl to make time in their timeline for this moment. It doesn’t take long at all! The hardest part is making sure dad shows up on time! If dad doesn’t show up on time, the whole timeline can get thrown off, or we’ll have to skip the daddy/daughter first look. Another sweet idea we’ve seen is having the father of the bride escort the bride to her first look!
— 33 —
the
C E REM O N Y �
Here it is! The moment everyone has been waiting for! The
long time! Vows will be shared and promises will be made... this
music is playing and the guests have been seated. Ushers make
is what it’s all about!! In a world full of wedding blogs, Pinterest
their way to the back, and the coordinator is lining up the
and bridal magazines, it’s easy to be overwhelmed and consumed
bridesmaids while giving the musicians a 5 minute warning. The
by the “prettiness” of the event. While details do matter and
bride is about to walk down the aisle to the love of her life... and
planning is necessary, it’s important to never lose sight of the real
if she’s like most girls, she’s dreamed about this moment for a
purpose of this amazing day!
Money Saving Tip No need to print out programs for every guest! The majority of the time, they will only pick up one per family.
— 35 —
HELPFUL TIPS
1 Coordination.
before sunset if you are having a FIRST LOOK. If you are not
Don’t feel bad to put budget money towards a coordinator. It’s
plenty of time for all of your portraits afterwards. The lower the
actually more important than you think! They basically run the
sun, the more romantic the lighting. If you are having an indoor
show and help make sure everything is in order as well as keep you
ceremony, it is always best to have EVEN lighting at the altar. If
sane. The last thing you want to worry about on your wedding day
there are two spotlights on the bride and groom, I will not be able
is fixing up the little details. Having someone else take care of them
to expose the rest of the bridal party. It is better to have soft, even
not only helps you with time, but allows you to relax and actually
light acorss the whole altar.
interested in sharing a first look, then I would suggest having your ceremony 3 hours before sunset to ensure that you will have
enjoy the day without thinking about the flower arrangements and
3 Order of Service
tying bows. Plus, they will inform you when to walk down the aisle so there are no questions asked the day of your wedding.
I have seen so many couples do so many AMAZING things during their ceremony. I’ve photographed couples washing each other’s feet, symbolizing that they want to serve each other for the rest of their life. Some couples share in communion while some light a unity candle. I’ve seen sand ceremonies, rope ceremonies, seasoning blend for couples who enjoy cooking, and the signing
2 Lighting
of the family Bible. The options are limitless!! As you plan your ceremony, make sure you design it to be exactly what the two of you envision it to be. This is your day!! If you have the freedom
Ceremony lighting is really important. If you get married
to be creative, then by all means, be creative!!
outdoors at 12pm, the lighting will be extremely harsh and not only will there be harsh lines of light on your faces, you will also be squinting. I suggest planning an outdoor ceremony 2 hours
— 36 —
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FAM ILY formals
� I love meeting our couple’s families on the wedding day! Family formals are normally our first interaction with them and so I love to have a game plan for this part of the day! About a month before the wedding, you’ll receive a questionnaire from us that will ask you to list out the family formals you want me to capture. Here is a sample family formal list to help you start preparing what shots you need. I do have to limit the family formal time in order to ensure that I have plenty of daylight for your romantic portraits. However, any large family group shots that I don’t accomplish during family formals, I can be sure to capture at the reception!
B&G B&G + Officiant B&G + B’s Mom and Dad B&G + B’s Mom, Dad and siblings B&G + B’s Mom, Dad, siblings and grandparents B&G + B’s Grandparents B&G + B’s Siblings (+ photo without the groom) B&G + G’s Mom and Dad B&G + G’s Mom, Dad and siblings B&G + G’s Mom, Dad, siblings and grandparents B&G + G’s Grandparents B&G + G’s Siblings (+ photo without the bride)
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your
W E D DING PART Y �
Finally, you get to be in a photo with all of your favorite
share your first look, depending on the locations and the
people! Everyone is dressed up, hair and makeup are done and
timing of the day, your weddingparty will join us for portraits!
the entire wedding party is excited to make you two feel special
If all goes well, we will be able to accomplish ALL of your
on your wedding day. Speaking of dressing up your wedding
wedding party protraits BEFORE the ceremony. This means
party, there are so many creative ideas when it comes to what to
that your guys and gals will be free to mingle at cocktail hour
wear! I have seen mixing and matching, different color tones,
if they wish! If there are flower girls and ring bearers involved,
different styles and so much more.
they can either join us for the pre-ceremony portraits or we can take one final group photo after the ceremony, before family
All brides want their closest friends to have an AMAZING
formals. Be sure your groomsmen arrive with boutonnieres on,
time during their big day, and I will make sure that happens!
and your bridesmaids arrive with bouquets!
Wedding party portraits should be a ton of FUN! After you
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bride & groom
P ORT RAITS �
If we’re being honest, all of the wedding day images are important, but the real favorites are almost always from my time with the Bride and Groom! These romantic portraits of just the two of you will be the images that you frame beside your bed or over your mantle, and they will also be the images that will fill your album for generations to enjoy.
These images are always my favorite not only because of
their beauty, but because this is such a sweet portion of the day. For this brief moment in time, you will be alone with your groom on your wedding day. You will have a chance to love on each other and really connect before the craziness begins! Romantic portraits are normally done before the ceremony (after the “First Look”) and then I LOVE shooting a few “just married” portraits after the ceremony as well! This is when the light is low and golden! It’s such a romantic time for bride and groom portraits! If you’re not interested in a first look, we will make sure to include a lot of time after the ceremony for these portraits!
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trusting portrait
LO CAT IO NS One of my favorite parts of my job is taking something so ordinary and making it look absolutely amazing! This happens most often when it comes to picking portrait locations! If there is one thing that I love and appreciate about my couples, it’s that they trust me! Sometimes I select portrait locations that most people wouldn’t consider attractive. You don’t have to worry about a thing when it comes to working with my creative eye and knowledge of lighting! Trust my locations, and I promise you, you’ll LOVE the results!
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in case of a
R A I N Y W EDDIN G DAY �
One of the most frequently asked questions that I receive during wedding season is “Soooo, what do you do if it RAINS?!”. I want to reassure you that even if it rains, you will still have beautiful portraits and BRIGHT colors in your images! Overcast skies mean vibrant colors! I know that rain isn’t ideal, and no bride would wish for rain on their big day, but if it happens, it happens... and it’s going to be JUST fine!! Some of my best weddings have been on rainy wedding days! Don’t let the fear of rain steal your joy. You can’t control it, and we promise we will make the best of it!!!
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HELPFUL REMINDERS
1
3
If the five-day weather forecast is calling for rain, buy some
Take it one step at a time. Don’t think about your entire day
CLEAR umbrellas (allows light to pass through) for you and the
and what will happen if it rains. That will only overwhelm you!
bridal party and maybe some cute rain boots! Leave the tags on if
Definitely have a rain plan for your venue, but then let your
the weather ends up being nice so you can return them.
vendors do the work of handling the rest of the day if rain is in the forecast.
2 Let me worry about the pictures. You have enough to think
4
about. If there is a chance of rain, I’ll be sure to do some extra
All I need to create natural light portraits on a rainy wedding
scouting to find a covered location or two, for us to use for you
day is a porch! Just one porch!
first look, romantic portraits and wedding party portraits.
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reception
DETAIL S IT’S TIME TO PARTY! Before we get into the party thinking mode,
it’s important to make sure that you have your event well thought
let’s talk about reception details. After the months of planning your
out. This is the job of your coodinator and your DJ/Band. Your
color scheme, types of linens, tablescape, centerpieces, decorative
caterer will also play a big role in the design and set up of your
signs, etc., it’s important to have these details documented so you
event. Every aspect of your reception affects the overall outline of
can see your hard work paid off. The majority of the time, you
the evening. For example, if you’re not having a plated meal, your
won’t be able to see the space CLEAN. By the time you walk into
reception will need to be set up in a way that allows movement.
the reception, people are sitting at their seat and purses/coats are
Guests will need to be able to find the food stations easily, and
thrown all over the place. My job is to photograph the decorated
there will be a mixture of dinner tables and hightop cocktail tables.
room 30-minutes BEFORE the ceremony so I’m not moving
This will encourage guests to mix and mingle. If you are having a
guest’s belongings or trying to herd family and friends away from
plated dinner, you will more than likely need escort cards, full place
the space for a few photos.
settings and space for all of your guests to be seated comfortably. Whatever the style of your event, make sure that you plan out all
The DJ or wedding coordinator will typically coordinate a timeline
of the aspects of the evening. Your coordinator and DJ can help you
for the reception and what order the events take place. If you need
set up the evening so that guests won’t leave early or experience long
a sample schedule of events, be sure to refer to the sample timelines.
periods of waiting for the next thing to happen.
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Money Saving Tips 1
2
Don’t feel like you need to purchase a favor for every attendee
Not every single guest will stay for the grand exit since some people
(unless it is placed at each seat). Many couples have said that
have to go home to their children, have a long trip ahead, etc. If
the little gifts were left behind after the wedding because guests
you want to save money and a pretty grand exit shot, there are
forgot. Order 25% less than the invited guest number so not
options! You can either opt for a faux exit with just your weddign
only are you saving money, but you won’’t end up with 50 left
party and immediate family or only provide 50% of the exit item
behind favors!
you plan to have your guests use to send you off!
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the
R E C EP T IO N �
The fun has begun! It’s time to relax, dance and celebrate!! Your
Also remember, just like the ceremony, you have the creativity to
reception should be a BLAST! The last thing you need to be
do whatever you want during this time! If you want to surprise
worrying about is your timeline. Your coordinator and DJ should
your guests with a choreographed dance, the shoe game, fireworks
take care of making sure that everything stays on schedule so that
or display a late night breakfast after the cake is cut, the options
you can enjoy your night. Here are some helpful tips that will
are endless! Remember to inform the vendor team of any surprises
help your reception flow smoothly. What’s important to note is
so we can plan accordingly. You have the freedom to make your
stretching out the events throughout the reception timeline is
reception your own! Here is a list of some key events that happen
going to be crucial to keep guests around. Once the cake has been
often at receptions: Wedding party introductions, first dance,
cut, guests start to leave, especially if they aren’t big dancers. Plus,
daddy-daughter dance, mother-son dance, anniversary dance,
you need to have breaks from dancing between each event so they
money cance, traditional religious dances, welcome by father of the
have time to reenergize for the next segment of dancing. We can
Bride, blessing, cake cutting, toasts, bouquet and garter toss, large
discuss your reception timeline during our final meeting.
group portraits with friends, and the exit of the Bride and Groom!
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HELPFUL TIPS
1
2
3
GUEST CONSIDERATION
KEEP IT MOVING
MAKE IT YOUR OWN
Take your guests into consideration when
Chat with your coordinator and DJ/
If you want to have a special dance with
planning your timeline. If you have a lot
Band about how you can plan your
your grandparents, do it! Make your
of elderly guests that will not be staying
reception in a way that will keep guests
reception a reflection of who you are and
until the very end, make sure you schedule
engaged and moving all night!
don’t feel tied to traditions. Also, make
the cake cutting before they head out.
sure you give your DJ or Band a “Do Not
Grandmas love seeing this sweet tradition!
Play” list if there are some songs you really don’t want to hear during your reception!
4
5
6
DON’T GET CAUGHT UP
RECEPTION COVERAGE
SUNSET PORTRAITS
Don’t get caught up in the formalities and
If you haven’t purchased enough coverage
If your wedding is in the summer, I would
the details. Sure, details are pretty and fun
time for your photography to last until the
love to run outside at some point to
to photograph, but they can steal the joy of
exit, that’s ok! There are several options! I
capture some sunset portraits during the
the day if you get too caught up in them.
recommend planning your timeline so that
reception. We will have to coordinate with
Plan your centerpieces, welcome table,
you can have at least one hour of dancing
the DJ, but this is the perfect break for you
etc. well before the wedding date, and
photographed.
both to get away from the crowd and soak
teach your coordinator or family friend
during the first hour will still be dancing
how to set them up so that you aren’t even
in the third hour! One hour of dancing
thinking about those things the day of!
will be enough time to really capture the
The guests who dance
joy of your reception!
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in the day for five to ten minutes.
reception controlled
EXITS �
Exits! If your coverage ends before your exit, you have the option of planning a faux exit with your wedding party! This is more common than you may think. Instead of saving your exit until the very end, you can plan a faux exit with just the members of your wedding party and a few family members! This allows us to have more control over these shots and the party NEVER has to stop! In most cases, no one even notices that the bride and groom are missing for a few minutes! This idea allows my couples to save money and still have all of the shots that they dreamed of!
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delivery
T IM EL IN E Engagement Session After your engagement portraits, you’re officially pros and ready for your wedding day! I’ll be sure to share a sneak peek and within weeks, you’ll have an entire gallery to share with family and friends!
Final Meeting About a month before your big day, I will send you a questionnaire form to fill out. After I receive your completed questionnaire, we will schedule a meeting to catch up and talk about your photo timeline! I want to walk you through your wedding day by customizing a game plan so are no questions asked the day of your wedding!
Wedding Day All of your hard work is done and it’s time to celebrate! I will arrive early to scout out locations and set up. Throughout the day, I will make sure everything is running according to our timeline and help celebrate the special day! Just like your engagement session, you can expect a sneak peek and within weeks, you will receive your full gallery of images online (high-res, non-watermarked) to download with a USB drive package to follow. Be sure to check out how to take care of your digital images on the right page!
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How to Take Care of Your Images You will receive one copy of the photos on a USB Drive; it is important to make copies of these digital pictures. Let’s be proactive and prevent any future stress.
1
3
Keep the USB Drive in a safe place.
Keep another copy on an external hard drive.
2
4
Make a copy on another USB Drive and place it in fire proof safe.
Keep another copy of the photos on your computer.
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S T R E SS -F REE T IP S
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1
5
8
Make sure someone knows how to fix
If you have more than six women who
Speaking of eating, if you do not have
your bustle and put in/take off your veil
are having hair/makeup done, I suggest
the chance of enjoying the cocktail
(if you have one).
hiring at least two hairdressers to make
hour food, have your catering company,
the process go faster. Talk to your hair/
coordinator, bridesmaid or friend fix you
makeup artist for their pro advice.
a plate of cocktail hour food and leave it
2 Always allot more time than needed. Cushion time is a good thing!
3 Make sure all tags are taken off from your prepping details and make sure to steam your dress if necessary.
4 Communicate with your florist to ensure the flowers arrive on time at the prepping space, or wherever we plan to photograph the wedding party before the ceremony.
6 Have a rain plan! If the five-day weather forecast is calling for rain, buy some CLEAR umbrellas (allows light to pass
at your seat so you can enjoy it during dinnertime. Missing out on the cocktail food was one regret my parents had on their wedding day!
through) for you and the bridal party and
9
maybe some cute rain boots! Leave the
Have someone with the men who knows
tags on if the weather ends up being nice
how to put on boutonnieres. Even share
so you can return them.
a “how to” video with the groomsmen!
7 EAT during prepping time! We do not want a fainting bride.
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Their boutonnieres need to be on in time for the groomsmen group portraits.
preferred
VEN D O RS �
Boudior PhotographERS Laura Quintero https://laurajquintero.com Alex Chalkley Boudior + Beauty http://www.alexchalkley.com Brooke Silverman www.brookesilvermanphotography.com Wedding PlannerS
Calligrapher Sincerely, Amy http://www.sincerelyamydesigns.com DRESS BOUTIQUE The Bridal Room https://www.thebridalroom.net Ava Laurenne Bride http://www.avalaurennebride.com
May June Events Jennifer https://www.mayjune.com jennifer@mayjune.com KD Custom Events Karen https://kdcustomevents.com/ karen.duckett07@gmail.com Michelle Amarillo Event Planning Michelle Amarillo http://www.michelleamarillo.com michelle@michelleamarillo.com Invitation Designer Caitlin Creative Works Caitlin www.caitlincreativeworks.com caitlincreativeworks@gmail.com Twila & Co Johnna http://www.johnnahetrick.com johnna@twilaco.com KK’s Printing http://kay-kays.com
Hair &Makeup Artists Best Face Forward Kara Gomez www.bestfaceartists.com bestfaceforward@hotmail.com First Look Artistry www.firstlookartistry.com firstlookartistry@gmail.com Salon Emage www.salonemage.com salonemageweddings@gmail.com DJ
Tent Rental Sammy’s Rentals http://www.sammysrental.com 703-361-6216 Rentals Bride & Joy https://www.brideandjoyweddings.com
DJ Craig Wood Craig Wood www.djcraigwood.com djcraigwood@gmail.com Im The DJ Nate Clancy http://www.imthedj.net nate@imthedj.net
Capital Party Rentals https://cerental.com/ MS Events https://www.mseventscville.com Ordained Minister No Ordinary Ordained Tamara Riley www.noordinaryordained.com noordinaryordained@gmail.com Wedding Ceremonies by Jeff Jeff Maszal www.weddingceremoniesbyjeff.com jeff@weddingceremoniesbyjeff.com
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Band Three Sheets to the Wind www.yachtrock.biz jshannon@eastcoastentertainment.com Big Ray and the Kool Kats http://bigrayandthekoolkats.com ray@greatpartybands.com Bachelor Boys Band https://www.bachelorboysband.com
Photo Booth Booth-o-Rama www.booth-o-rama.com hello@booth-o-rama.com Flash Foto Fun http://www.flashfotofun.com Info@flashfotofun.com
Bartender Sugar Rim Bar Cory Brim www.sugarrimbar.com corybrim@sugarrimbar.com Florist The Posey Detail Alyssa http://theposeydetail.com alyssa@theposeydetail.com
Videographer Simon Cook Films Simon Cook http://www.simoncookfilms.com simonicook@gmail.com Video Scrapbooks Erin Sellers www.erin-sellers.com ersellers@gmail.com The Herrintons Tyler and Ashley http://theherrintons.com ashley@theherrintons.com
J Morris Flowers Jennifer http://www.jmorrisflowers.com studio@jmorrisflowers.com Serena Floral Design Serena https://sarenafloraldesigns.com Sarena@sarenafloraldesigns.com Sweet Root Village http://sweetrootvillage.com thevillage@sweetrootvillage.com
Caterer Serendipity https://serendipityvirginia.com Harvest Moon Catering https://harvestmooncateringdcl.com A La Carte http://www.alacartecaters.com
Baker Gateau Lora Gookin www.1gateau.com gateauva@gmail.com Sweets by E Evan Elizabeth Sanderson http://www.sweetsbye.com cakes@sweetsbye.com Cakes www.theicingcakes.com info@theicingcakes.com
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TRANSPORTATION Fleet Transportation https://fleettransportation.com Chariots for Hire http://chariotsforhire.com info@chariotsforhire.com Ciao Bella Celebrations (Trolley offered 50 mile radius from Warrenton) Trolleyforhire.com 540-349-0035 Central Virginia Wine Tours https://centralvirginiawinetours.com
T H ANK YO U! ! ! THANK YOU for trusting me with your special day. I am so incredibly honored to be the one to not only document your love story, but also celebrate alongside with you! We all love the pretty details, but remember that your marriage should be even more beautiful than your wedding day. Continue to make time for one another, even with all that needs to get done. As you continue to plan, please feel free to contact me with ANY questions you may have along the way! Also, about 8 weeks before the wedding, you’ll receive an online questionnaire that will provide me with everything I need to know for your big day!! I hope this guide has been helpful as you continue to plan and prepare for your wedding day!
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:7-8 Thank you for giving me the privilege of getting to know you both through this exciting journey!
xoxo,
Stephanie