Over the years, I’ve learned a bit of foresight & planning goes a long way to help ensure YOUR big day goes the way YOU have always dreamed. So you can be relaxed, stress free, and most importantly, present.

Remember, this is YOUR wedding day, and you get to curate it the way that feels right for you — from getting ready and first looks, to private gift exchanges, bridal party fun, the ceremony, greeting guests, couple photos, dinner, cake-cutting, and dancing the night away. There’s a lot to fit into one day, & planning ahead gives us space to make sure we account for, & capture the moments that matter most. To help ensure we allocate time for these most special, once-in-a-lifetime photos that capture the emotion and the beauty of it all. Here’s how to make sure we get them:

Tip 1: Know What Moments Matters Most to You & Prioritize for These

Think about the moments you want photographed no matter what. For many couples, this begins with the first look and gift exchange. These moments are classic, emotional, intimate, and full of anticipation — AND deserve to be spotlighted. If you're having a first look or gift exchange, make sure to share your plan with your photographer so no detail is overlooked, or feels rushed.

Tip 2: Assign a “Photo Wrangler”

I know this sounds funny, but I see this far too often at weddings. Immediately preceding the ceremony, everyone runs off to the bar for a drink, leaving the bride & groom scrambling, & stressed out trying to find everyone for photos & bring them back. A Wrangler's job is simple: Makes sure family and wedding parties don’t sprint off to the bar before photos. Have a plan for where to meet, when to meet, and communicate the plan ahead of time. The smoother & more efficiently we move through family photos, the more time we have for THE most important portraits of the day.

Tip 3: Protect Your Couple Portrait Time

Your couple photos are, in my opinion, THEE most important photos of the day. These photos are just for you. These photos tell your love story, on your special day, in a way that is uniquely, YOU.

These are often the images you’ll be most excited to share with family & friends, that you will want to frame, print, and be a focal point in your album. These are the quiet, romantic shots with just the two of you, in beautiful light and stunning scenery, with no rush and no distractions. Remember, It’s YOUR day, and YOU get to curate your day However. You. Like.