Let's keep it real. You've planned a ridiculous amount for this one day. You've thought of everything under the sun. The last thing on your list is to show up and say, "I DO!"
NOT SO FAST.
You want the album of your dreams? Add these things to your wedding day checklist for photography!
1. Detail Box
First thing I'll ask for when I show up to a wedding is, "Where are the rings, your bouquet, shoes, and dress?" The follow-up question is, "Do you have any additional details you want photographed?" The answer should be, "Yes, here's ALL MY THINGS." Bam. Done. Have a box! Heck, even two: one for you and one for your partner. Some things you might want photos of include:
Rings (Engagement and bands)
Flowers (bouquets, boutonnières, extra cut flowers from your decor)
Invitations/Save the Dates, etc.
The Dress + veil
The Shoes
The Suit
The Shoes
The Wedding Party's dresses/suits (If you want a pic of everyone's together. Super cute photo op, requires maximum logistics)
Hers: Jewelry, garter, anything not bolted down
His: Watch, belt, bowtie, regular tie, cuff-links, anything not bolted down
Vow books (if written)
Flower girl's things (outfit, shoes, jewelry, bouquet, headband, etc.)
Ring-bearer's things (outfit, shoes, carrying pillow, etc.)
2. Room Details
This is the second-ish thing I do when arriving on site depending on our schedule. This can be conflicting if you're doing a room swap or are relying on self-setup, or have different scheduling plans with your planner/venue. This is best done before guests arrive which is why I do it at the top of the day.
3. Iron Your Clothes
Make sure your wedding party knows to bring their outfits ironed! Bridesmaid dresses WILL be wrinkly! Steam your dress and veil the night before and then again on location before the day gets going. Sub-note: have non plastic hangers for any garment that will be in pictures. It will completely elevate your day!
4. Eat Lunch (AND HYDRATE)
I see it happen all the time! We forget to plan for lunch. Don't worry if this is you! Now's your reminder that if your wedding party has an early start, try to have some snacks or a quick lunch before we get snappin'. Happy tummies make for better smiles in photos! And drink some water!
5. Do a First Look
Okay I KNOW you're not supposed to, but logistically, why not? You can do full-party photos before cocktail hour (or a majority of them), making more time for your couple's session after the ceremony (yay!), actually get back to ENJOY your cocktail hour with guests, and not to mention the absolutely adorable photos from the first look that you can look back on for years to come. Now you have just made a private time for you and your partner to connect before the ceremony, have personal vows, and get a couple tears out before the Big One. All I see are wins.
