Take a moment to appreciate your incredible bond that's led you to this milestone... you're getting married
I'm beyond stoked to document your day and offer one important piece of advice: plan a wedding that makes you feel amazing and true to yourself. Grab a cuppa and read through all the details of this guide to plan your big day, or simply skim through for a quick overview. The most important thing is that your wedding feels like you - comfortable, amazing,
and unapologetically YOU.
In this guide, I'll cover all the intricacies to help your day run smoothly, so you can focus on saying "I do" and have a blast. Let's dive in!
Welcome
A massive congratulations to you both on embarking on this new chapter together.
I totally get how precious your photos are to you. They're like those awesome memories that will stick with you for a lifetime. So, to make sure we capture the photos that mean the most to both of you, let's take a moment together and chat about your priorities. Some shots might hold extra meaning for one of you, and even if you're not super fussed about specific photos, it's cool to think about how important they are to your partner.
Just like you guys need to keep the communication flowing, it's the same deal with me. Don't worry, if you ever need a breather from the camera, just give me the signal, and I'll totally respect your wishes. This day is all about you, and we're here to make it exactly the way you want it.
talk it out
I've got a handy list that'll make it a breeze for you to figure out which photo opportunities are top priorities for both of you. It'll give you that extra boost of confidence when you're letting me know your preferences, and I'll be able to focus on capturing those moments that mean the most to you. So let's dive into the list and make sure we're on the same page!
Getting dressed
Photos of accessories and details - including jewellery, perfume, cufflinks, ties, watches or anything sentimental
Solo portraits during prep - these are great and feel different from the rest of the day. I highly recommend it, but if you are uncomfortable with this, that’s totally fine.
Posed family photos
Posed wedding party photos (in both robes/PJs and wedding attire)
Getting Ready Photos
I'll be focusing on capturing the perfect shot without interrupting your moment. You might not even realise I'm there!
Ceremony
+ Who would you like group photos with?
+ Is there anyone you don’t want in certain group photos?
Family Photos / Group Photos
While I'm capturing the perfect shot, I'll make sure not to interrupt your special moments. Call me anytime for photos with loved ones.
Reception & Dancefloor
+ How long would you like your portrait session to go for?
+ Do you have certain photo locations in mind?
Couple Portraits
getting ready
Section One
Your getting ready time can be both fun and stress-free with a few tips to help make everything run smoothly. Here are some ideas to make your getting ready time rock!
Preparing for your big day is a mix of excitement and nerves. It's important to remember that you have the freedom to choose who you want to be with during this special time. Whether you prefer a big group or just a few close loved ones, the key is to create an atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable and at ease.
Here's an idea: if you're up for an adventure, why not spend the morning with your partner? Picture sharing intimate moments, calming each other's nerves, and creating lasting memories together. These precious moments can be captured in photographs, serving as a beautiful reminder of the love and excitement you felt before saying "I do". Embrace the thrill of the moment and make the most of this special time leading up to your wedding.
who To Get Ready With?
Choosing who to spend the morning of your wedding day with is a meaningful decision...
Here are tips to ensure your wedding photos are perfect amidst the excitement and chaos of getting ready.
NOMINATE A TIDY TEAM
Nominating family or friends to help keep things organised during your preparation. They can do simple tasks like picking up empty glasses and bottles or discarded hangers to keep the space tidy.
PRIORITISE NATURAL LIGHT AND SPACE
To help capture gorgeous photos, natural light and space are essential. If you're unsure which room to use for photos and as the designated mess-free zone, I'm happy to help you choose. Your tidy team can quickly declutter the room before I start taking pictures.
BEAUTY IN THE CHAOS
Despite having friends around to keep things tidy in the morning, some of the mess may still be visible in the photos as I'll be taking shots from various angles around the house.
Keeping your space tidy will creating a stress-free environment for getting ready and taking photos
Oh yes, there will be mess!
Unsure about where to get ready for your big day? I’ve detailed some of my favourite places for your inspiration below.
location
Airbnb
At Home
Other
Getting ready in the comfort of your own home, or your family's home can add lots of awesome, sentimental details. I will take some ‘establishing shots’ (aka photos to help tell the story of the day) and capturing the meaningful details of of the home or family home can make for truly special images.
Airbnbs can be the perfect location for capturing your getting ready photos. Not only can they provide a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, but also a unique and visually stunning backdrop for your photos.
Show off your personality through your getting-ready location! Whether you choose a luxurious 5-star resort or a quirky retro motel on the side of the road, your photos will be stunning.
makeup / grooming
When it comes to getting your makeup done, here's a tip: try to position yourself in front of a large window. This way, you'll benefit from the beautiful natural light streaming in, creating a flattering and radiant look. Not only will it enhance your makeup application, but it will also help me capture the most amazing photos possible.
Even if you're not getting your makeup done, don't worry! I still want to capture all those special moments of your getting ready process. Whether you're straightening your tie or putting on your necklace in front of a mirror, just give me a heads-up when you're getting ready to add those final touches. I'll be there, camera in hand, ready to capture all those candid and heartfelt moments that make your getting ready process unique and memorable.
Detail Photos
These photos are of all the accessories that you will be wearing to complete your outfit, such as cufflinks, necklaces, perfume, shoes, etc.
If you would like these photos, please make sure you gather all the pieces in a nice spot and let me know when I arrive.
This can include but is not limited to:
+ Shoes
+ Invitations
+Cufflinks
+Tie Pin
+ Jewellery
+ Watches
+ Socks
+ Perfume
+ Ties
You don’t have to follow the tradition of getting ready separately
together
Here are some reasons why getting ready together can be a wonderful experience:
Whether you decide to get ready separately or together, this will be an incredibly fun and unforgettable part of your day.
+ Starting the day together can help create a sense of calm and happiness, easing any pre-wedding nerves.
+ Spending the entire day with your partner is a great way to celebrate your day and live every moment together.
+ Getting ready photos of you and your partner can be incredibly adorable and meaningful.
+ By getting ready in the same location, I can capture more special moments without the need to travel between places.
+ You can still have a first look and get ready together by preparing separately but sharing a special moment together before the ceremony. This moment can be shared with just the two of you or with your loved ones present.
- if it’s not your vibe, don’t feel pressured to do so.
or Apart
exchanging gifts
Between You And Your Partner
With Your Wedding Party
I love to capture these little moments for my couples in a beautiful area of your accommodation with plenty of natural light.
Please don't feel shy or worried, as I'll give you all the privacy you need and mainly shoot from a distance. Once you've exchanged your heartfelt words and gifts, I'll take some pictures of them to cherish forever.
If you're planning to exchange gifts with your wedding party, let me know beforehand. I can take pictures of the gifts before they're given and suggest a location to capture the moment. During the exchange, I'll move around the room to take candid photos of the joyous reactions.
P.S. You don't have to exchange gifts with anyone on your wedding day. If this is something you don’t feel you need, don’t do it. As I have said and will say again; it’s your day, you do it YOUR way. :)
FOOD
Don't forget to take care of yourselves with a little nosh during the getting ready portion of the day. If you're surrounded by family and friends, make someone take charge of food arrangements to keep everyone satisfied, especially you and your partner.
But if it's just the two of you getting ready, let's make sure food preparation isn't on your mind. Bring some yummy snacks, order in or head out to a nearby café for a quick bite. Let's keep those stomachs happy!
creating The Vibe
There are no hard and fast rules for what to do in the morning, so feel free to mix things up and make it your own. You, your partner, and your wedding party can do any activities that will help you get in the mood for the day and make this time even more special.
Put on some music, crack open some bevvies this is a day of celebration!
This can include:
+ Games
+ Yoga
+ Meditation
+ Going for a Surf
+ Trip to the Golf Course
+ Beach or Nature Walk
+ Trip to a Bar or Cafe
To ensure I make it to your ceremony location before you and your guests, I will leave from the getting ready location about 30 minutes before you do. This way, I can familiarise myself with the surroundings, photograph the ceremony setup and have a little chat with your celebrant, before anyone else arrives.
I'll Head To Your Ceremony Location Earlier
I understand the appeal of a nice, sun-kissed glow. However, it's important to keep in mind that fake tans can sometimes look more orange than natural in photographs. If you're unsure about using fake tan, it may be best to skip it altogether.
If you do opt for a fake tan, I will still make sure you look good in all your wedding photos. I’ve got you!
faux glow vibes
If during your makeup trial, you feel like the makeup is a bit too heavy-handed, don't hesitate to speak up! It's important for you to feel confident and beautiful on your big day without worrying about looking "cakey" in your photos. Even if the makeup artist assures you that it will look great in pictures, trust me, it won't look any different. So, feel free to ask your makeup artist to try a lighter look or find a new artist who better understands your vision. Remember, it's your day, and you deserve to feel amazing!
Heavy Makeup
what to wear
If you've booked me to capture your getting ready moments, let your family and friends know ahead of time that I'll be taking photos during this time. That way, everyone can feel comfortable and ready for the camera.
To add a fun and cohesive touch to your photos, you and your wedding party could consider wearing matching slips, robes or pyjamas. For those who prefer to wear their own clothes, suggest wearing something casual or anything they feel confident and happy in.
Time Spent With You Getting Ready
When it comes to the getting ready portion of your day, I typically like to spend around 40 with gents, and 90 minutes with the girls. This allows me to capture all the important details, such as your outfit, hair, makeup, and any grooming that you may need. Of course, if one of you is getting ready faster or slower than the other, we can adjust our time accordingly.
When Should I Be ready-ish?
To make sure we have ample time to capture all the precious moments of your getting-ready process, it would be ideal if your hair and makeup are finished approximately 30 to 40 minutes after I arrive. It would be great if your wedding party could have their hair and makeup done before my arrival, saving yours for the final touch-ups.
It's important to note that I'll be leaving for the ceremony 30 minutes before you do. Please take this into consideration when planning your timeline, allowing for any unexpected delays such as makeup or hair running over time. If you need any assistance in creating a timeline that works best for you, feel free to reach out to me. I'm here to help!
ceremony
Section Two
flower children
Let's talk about the adorable tiny humans walking down the aisle! While they bring so much cuteness to the ceremony, past experience has taught me that it's best to have a backup plan just in case things don't go as smoothly as expected. We all know how unpredictable kids can be!
If the little ones get overwhelmed or decide to do their own thing mid-walk, it's helpful to have someone close to them ready to step in and assist them down the aisle. Having a plan B in place will give you peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the beautiful moment of walking down the aisle without worrying about any potential hiccups. Remember, seeing a crowd of unfamiliar faces can be quite daunting for young children, especially if it's their first time as flower children. By having a backup plan, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone involved.
It can get Windy
Let's talk about long veils—they can be absolutely stunning! However, it's important to consider some practical aspects, especially if you're having an outdoor ceremony where wind can be a factor. If you decide to wear a veil, it's a great idea to show your wedding party how to remove or adjust it, just in case it gets windy. That way, they can assist you if the wind starts playing tricks on your veil.
Remember, it's completely normal to take a moment to adjust your outfit, remove your veil, or even take a seat during your ceremony if needed. Your loved ones are there to support and celebrate you, and they will completely understand if you need a brief pause to feel more comfortable. Don't hesitate to take those little breaks to ensure you're feeling your best throughout the ceremony. It's all about creating a relaxed and enjoyable experience for you on your special day.
This is such a big moment. Allow yourself to soak it all in and enjoy every second of it. I will I'll be there to capture every moment of you and your partner's reactions so really take your time.
If you’ll be holding a bouquet, it's best to hold it at your belly button with relaxed arms. If you are wearing a long dress, you may need to keep one hand free in case you need to slightly lift it while walking.
If the thought of walking down the aisle feels overwhelming, remember that you have options. You can choose to walk with a loved one, including your partner, to take the spotlight off of you. And if you're not a fan of traditions, feel free to skip the walk down the aisle altogether and show up in a way that feels true to you.
Walking Down the Aisle
Unplugged Ceremony/Wedding
Consider a phone-free ceremony, simply ask guests to keep phones away to fully immerse themselves in the moment. It reduces distractions and helps capture candid shots without obstructions. Your celebrant can easily make the announcement before the ceremony begins to remind guests to turn off their devices and enjoy the ceremony with undivided attention.
yay, confetti time!
End your ceremony with a colorful and fun confetti exit to celebrate your marriage. This can make for some truly gorgeous, incredible photos. You can opt for flower petals as an eco-friendly choice for confetti.
To organise the confetti exit, have a family member or two hand out confetti as the ceremony comes to an end or pre-place it on the chairs before guests arrive. Remind your guests not to use it until you both exit the ceremony at the end.
For the best photos, walk down the entire aisle and stop half way for a cheeky kiss while your guests throw confetti or flower petals. To prevent guests from interrupting the moment by hugging or congratulating you, ask your celebrant to announce that congratulations will take place after you have completed the walk.
congratulations!
After the ceremony, take some time to receive the loved-up vibes and well wishes from your guests. Find a clear and open space near the ceremony site and invite your guests to join you for congratulations. Your celebrant can also help facilitate this by inviting guests to come forward.
If you'd like to make it easier for your guests, you can also take the initiative to walk around and say thank you to each of them. They'll understand that this is their cue to offer their congratulations and share their love with you.
ceremony lighting
For optimal ceremony lighting, consider positioning yourselves in either direct light or all shade. It's best to avoid one of you being in the shade while the other is in the sun, as it can be difficult to capture good photos in this situation. If your ceremony is during the day and it's hot, staying in the shade can also help keep you comfortable.
For indoor or nighttime ceremonies, most venues and churches have adequate lighting, but if you have concerns about the lighting, we can meet at the location before your wedding day to assess the lighting and determine if extra lighting is necessary.
It's becoming more popular to have a child-free wedding, and it's completely acceptable to request this. You can include this information on your wedding invites if you choose to do so.
If you decide to invite children, it's possible that they may cry or become restless during your ceremony, leaving their parents feeling uncomfortable. To ease your anxiety, you can have a conversation with their caregivers beforehand. Let them know that if their child becomes fussy, it's okay for them to step out of the venue. This can reassure them and give them the option to leave the ceremony if necessary.
Child Free Or Not?
Choosing the right celebrant for your wedding is crucial since they will play a significant role in your special day. It's essential to select someone who you connect with and feel comfortable around.
Keep in mind that each celebrant has their own style, whether it's delivering a heartfelt speech or keeping things light and fun with some humor. To get a sense of their style, you can ask to see some videos of their past ceremonies. Another option to make your ceremony feel more personal is to have a friend officiate the ceremony, with the celebrant present to officiate.
Choose your Celebrant
PERSONAL VOWS
Personal vows are optional and it's completely understandable if you feel uncomfortable sharing them in front of your guests.
If you would like to write personal vows, but prefer not to have an audience we can arrange a private moment for just the two of you to exchange them. I will be there to take photos unobtrusively in the background. We can plan this moment after getting ready, after your first look, in between your post-ceremony portraits, or during some sunset portrait session.
Section Three
family portraits
and GROUP shots
If you want a group photo with all your loved ones, we can take it right after the ceremony when everyone is gathered together. We'll need plenty of space, so an outdoor location is ideal.
I'll work with the celebrant to direct everyone to the group photo spot. Enlisting a "loud" friend can also help gather everyone together. Though not necessary, a step ladder and loudspeaker can come in handy if we need to get everyone's attention and provide directions.
Group photos
family photos
Your wedding day is an incredible opportunity to capture precious moments with your loved ones. To make sure we get all the shots you want, I kindly request that you provide me with a list of the specific photo groups you have in mind ahead of time. Depending on the size of your family, this can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour.
To help everything run smoothly, I will ask one of your trusted friends or family members to assist me in gathering the different groups.
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Parents
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Siblings
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Immediate Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Extended Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Grandparents
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Parents
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Siblings
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Immediate Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Extended Family
+ Partner 1 & Partner 2 + Partner 1 Grandparents
Example of family photo list:
FAMILY ONE
FAMILY TWO
How Long Do Family Photos Take?
This usually depends on how big your family is, how many groups you’ll be separating your family into, and how easy it is to coordinate everyone during the session.
Generally, for a family of:
+ 20 (6-8 groups): it will take around 10-20min
+ 30 (9-12 groups): it will take around 20 - 30min
+ 40 (13-16 groups): it will take around 30 - 40 min
+ 50+ (17-25 groups): it will take around 40min - 1hr
If there are any sensitive or challenging family dynamics that I should be mindful of, please feel free to share with me. My goal is to create a comfortable and stress-free environment for everyone on your special day.
couple Photos &
wedding PARTY Photos
Section Four
Wedding Party Photos
During the photo session with your wedding party and the two of you, I prefer to take all the wedding party photos first before taking you both for some intimate shots. This way, you can have a moment to catch your breath and enjoy each other's company for the rest of the shoot.
If you want your wedding party to join in the couple's photo session, we can make it happen. But, I may suggest taking a short walk away from the group to capture some stunning shots of just you two.
How Long Do Couple Photos Take?
When it comes to capturing stunning photos of just the two of you, I want to make sure you feel comfortable and at ease. I understand your wedding day can be busy, so I'll do my best to work around your schedule and preferences.
To ensure we have enough time to create those beautiful, dreamy shots, I suggest allowing for 20-40 minutes of shooting time (not including travel time between locations). If you would like to visit several locations, allocating 1-1.5 hours for your shoot can give us enough time. Remember, less can be more - the fewer locations we have, the more time you'll have to relax and feel comfortable in front of the camera.
What Should I Bring on the Couple Shoot?
+ Touch-up makeup and mirror
+ Comb & Bobby Pins
+ Spare Shoes (just in case your feet get sore if we’re walking a lot between locations)
+ Emergency kit with safety pins, stain remover, and sewing kit
+ Tissue for blotting sweat or tears
+ Snacks
+ Permits for shooting locations
+ Champagne/ Refreshments
+ Sunscreen
What Time of the Day Should We Take COUPLE PORTRAITS?
When it comes to capturing the most beautiful tones in couple photos, the ideal time is during the magical moments of sunset and the blue hour when the sun's intensity is lower. These times offer a soft and flattering light that adds a special touch to your images. However, if scheduling doesn't allow for these specific times, no need to worry! I have years of experience working with various lighting conditions, and I can adapt to any situation.
transport
If you have a special location in mind for your portraits that's away from the venue, I suggest booking your wedding transport to cover the entire time needed. That way, you won't need to worry about transportation logistics on your big day. I'll make sure to drive myself to the portrait location before you leave and will also return to the venue slightly before you.
A Pro Tip for Feeling Great in Your Couple Photos
Here's one of my top tips to help you feel super comfortable and confident in front of the camera: consider scheduling an engagement session before your wedding day. This will give us the perfect opportunity to get to know each other better, and guess what? You'll end up with even more stunning photos to display on your walls! You can even use these engagement photos for your RSVPs, wedding invitations, or even holiday greeting cards. It's a win-win!
And hey, if you're not a fan of posing, no problem at all! I absolutely love capturing candid moments too. I'll give you subtle prompts and directions to help you feel natural and comfortable during the shoot. The goal is to create genuine and heartfelt images that truly reflect who you are as a couple. So let's have fun, be yourselves, and create some amazing memories together!
dinner & RECEPTION
Section Five
Photographing the Reception Styling
Photographing the intricate details of your reception styling can add to the overall story of your special day. To ensure the photos look their best and there are no unwanted distractions, I would love to capture them before your guests arrive if possible. Please let me know what time your guests will be arriving so I can see if we can work it into your timeline.
Big Tip
With all the exciting photo opportunities and events happening on your special day, I may not be able to capture the reception styling before your guests arrive. If these photos are important to you (which I totally understand), we could consider booking a second photographer to make sure everything is covered. Let's talk about this option further if you're interested.
speeches
To make sure we capture the heartfelt moments of your speeches and guests' reactions, having adequate lighting in the speech area is important. If you're unsure about how much lighting is required, I'm can offer suggestions.
cutting the cake
To make your cake cutting moment more special, I suggest planning ahead with the venue to have a knife and champagne set up on the table. This way, you won't have to worry about a thing and can just focus on enjoying the moment.
I recommend allocating a 5-10 minutes in your photo timeline for me to set up some stationary lighting. It won't take long, and it'll make all the difference in creating stunning shots.
Be sure to invite your loved ones to stand around the dancefloor during your first dance, and I'll be sure to capture their reactions to this special moment.
first dance
Big Tip
Ask your venue to dim the lights and your guests to hold up their phones with their torches on. This will create a concert-like vibe and make for some incredible photos. Just let your band or DJ know, and they can inform your guests to head over to the dancefloor and take part in the magic.
Be Sure to Schedule some D-Floor Time Before I Leave
The moment after your first dance is the perfect opportunity for everyone to hit the dance floor for a song or two. It's also an excellent chance for me to capture some early dance floor photos, especially if we're on a tight timeline. If your guests need a little nudge to get the party started, your wedding party can lead the way by joining you on the dance floor first and encouraging everyone else to follow. Let's make some memories! Let's light up the dance floor with some killer shapes!
leaving with a bang
Depending on the photography package you choose, capturing this moment may not be the most efficient use of our time together. However, if it's something you really want to be documented, please let me know in advance. This way, we can discuss the day's timeline and, if necessary, make arrangements to book additional hours.
It's important to keep in mind that sparkler exits can be a bit unpredictable. While they can create stunning and fun photos, coordinating a large group of people to hold sparklers and form two lines can be challenging, especially when alcohol is involved. Rest assured, I'll do my absolute best to capture this moment for you. However, please understand that it may not always turn out exactly as planned. I'll work with the given circumstances and do everything I can to create beautiful images that reflect the joy and excitement of your exit.
what else?
Section Six
As much as I am dedicated to capturing every moment of your special day, I am only human and will need to take breaks to eat, drink, and catch my breath. I always bring some snacks with me, but when dinner time comes, please request my meal to be served at the same time as you and your guests. No one wants photos of themselves while eating anyway, so I won't be missing anything.
Taking a break
In the event of rain, don't fret! Rainy shots can be romantic A.F and so unique. If you're unsure of the weather or if rain is forecasted, I highly recommend purchasing some nice, sturdy umbrellas just in case. This way, we can still capture some beautiful moments without getting drenched. Let's work together to make the most out of whatever weather comes our way.
Weather
If you do choose to hire a videographer, know that we’ll be working closely together on the day to ensure we capture all the moments as best as possible between us, so it’s a good idea to choose someone who shares a similar style with me. For example, if the videographer is getting you to act all broody and mody and not loo at eachother but you have booked me for my fun, energetic and timeless style then it will be harder for the videographer and I to shoot together.
Want a videographer but not sure who? Let me know as I can recommend some trusted videographers who match my editing and work style.
If you decide to not book a videographer, make sure you ask one of your guests to at least film the speeches. Believe me, you won't regret it and will love watching the replay!
should we hire a videographer?
Personally, I highly recommend it! Having both photos and videos is a brilliant way to capture your wedding memories for generations to come
timeline example
Section Eight
Photograph Partner One's prep.
Leave for Partner Two’s House.
Photograph Partner Two's prep.
I leave for the ceremony to photograph the location/setup before guests start to arrive.
Photograph the venue and ceremony site.
Guests arrive at the ceremony.
Ceremony starts.
Ceremony ends
Group photo with all the wedding guests.
Family group photos.
Wedding party & Couple photos.
Private canapes prior to entrance.
Couple and wedding party entrance + cake cutting
First Dance + everyone invited to the dance floor.
Dinner + speeches
We sneak off for some quick sunset/ blue-hour portraits (Optional).
We get back / D-floor Shots.
All Done!
9-Hr Coverage
Most Popular
11:00
11:40
12:00
1:30
2:00
2:30
3:00
3:30
3:50
4:00
4:45
5:50
6:05
6:20
7:00
7:00
7:30
8:00
Photograph Partner One's prep
Leave for Partner Two’s House.
Photograph Partner Two's prep.
I leave for the ceremony to photograph the location/setup before guests start to arrive.
Photograph the venue and ceremony site.
Ceremony starts.
Ceremony ends.
Group Photo with all wedding guests.
Family Group Photos.
Wedding party & Couple photos.
Couple and wedding party entrance + cake cutting, First Dance + everyone invited to the dance floor.
Dinner + speeches.
We sneak off for some quick sunset/ blue-hour portraits (Optional).
We get back / D-floor Shots.
All done!
Example
1:30
2:00
2:15
3:00
3:30
4:00
4:30
4:45
5:00
5:45
6:30
7:00
7:30
8:00
8:30
First look, wedding party photos, couple photos.
Ceremony starts.
Ceremony ends +Group photo.
A few family group photos.
Mingle photos (candid).
Couple and wedding party entrance + cake cutting, First Dance + everyone invited to the dance floor.
Dinner + speeches.
All done!
Example
3:00
4:00
4:30
4:45
5:15
5:45
6:30
7:00
Example
7-Hr Coverage
4-Hr Coverage
do's & DON't
Section Nine
Remember to take a deep breath, today is a celebration of your love story, so soak up every moment of joy and excitement.
Create a photo timeline for the day to make sure we capture all the special moments.
Write down a list of all the family group shots - send to me before the wedding.
Write down any specific photos your would like - send to me before the wedding.
Holla whenever you want a photo of you or you with a group.
Gather all the accessories you want in your detail shots and have them ready in the morning.
Bring your wedding invites, and I'll make sure to capture them for you.
To make sure everything runs smoothly, tidy up the getting ready location before I arrive - nominate someone to help you with this.
Make sure the reception area is well-lit to get the best shots possible.
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do's
dont's
Get caught up in trying to please everyone else. Remember, this day is about you and your partner. It's okay to say no to certain requests or traditions that don't align with your vision.
Worry about the photos - I got you.
Stare at the camera - just be yourself and pretend I'm not even there, except for group and posed shots.
Forget to eat and drink water throughout the day. You want to have enough energy to enjoy the day and make it through the long haul.
Feel like you can't take breaks and recharge. It's a long day, and you'll need some downtime to rest and reflect.
Be afraid to delegate tasks to trusted family members or friends. You don't have to do everything yourself, and it's okay to ask for help.
Hesitate to reach out to me about anything.
Forget to book a wedding album - it's discounted when booked with your wedding package.
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Wedding Planners
Below is some complimentary checklist to help you plan your big day. These aren't 'have to' lists as a wedding can look however you want and involve anything that aligns with you. For this reason use this list as a guide for what your wedding day could involve. You can print out the planners and use the checkboxes to mark off what you've accomplished or if something doesn't apply to your wedding, just mark it as N/A.
Wedding Checklist Planner
Getting Ready Location
▢ Bluetooth Speaker
(for the tunes while you get ready)
▢ Games
▢ Food & Drinks
▢ Clothing Iron/s or Steamer
▢ Lint Roller
▢ Someone to Tie the Ties
▢ Hair Dryer
To Take to the Wedding
▢ Little Sewing Kit
▢ Deodorant
▢ Tissues
▢ Spare Bobby Pins
▢ Comb
▢ Hairspray
▢ Painkillers
▢ Band-aids
▢ Floss
▢ Safety Pins
▢ Lipstick, Gloss and/or Chapstick
▢ Shawl
(in case you get cold)
▢ Umbrellas
Wedding Planning Checklist
Purchase / Find for the Couple:
▢ Rings
▢ Dress
▢ Heels
▢ Jewellery
▢ Veil / Headpiece
▢ Suit
▢ Belt
▢ Tie
▢ Tie Clip
▢ Pocket Square
▢ Watch
▢ Cuff Links
▢ Reception Shoes
▢ Shawl
To Book / Organise:
▢ Photographer
▢ Videographer
▢ Stylist
▢ Makeup Artist / Hair Stylist
▢ Celebrant
▢ Entertainment
▢ MC
▢ Transport
▢ Getting Ready Location/s
▢ Venue/s
▢ Signage
▢ Florist
▢ Catering
▢ Bar
▢ Wedding Cake
▢ Wedding Arch Styling
▢ Ceremony Seating
▢ Reception Tables & Seating
(If not provided by venue)
▢ Tableware
▢ Lights for Reception
▢ Candles
▢ Table Decorations
To Hire
To Purchase / Find - General:
▢ Wedding Invites
▢ Eco Confetti
(or petals from your florist)
Create Styling Mood Boards For:
▢ Ceremony Styling
▢ Reception Styling
▢ Dinner Sets
▢ Flowers
▢ Signage
▢ Dress
▢ Suits
▢ Belts
▢ Ties
▢ Cufflinks
▢ Shoes
▢ Buttonhole Flowers
▢ Flower Crown
(For flower children)
▢ Flower Children Outfits
▢ Ring Bearer Outfits
Purchase / Find for the Wedding Party:
To Do:
▢ Write Wedding Vows
▢ Print Wedding Vows
(If written digitally)
▢ Write Card for Partner
Print the Wedding Checklist
Item Checklist
12-18 Months
8-12 Months
4-8 Months
▢ Finalise guest list
▢ Book an engagement photo session (with me ☺)
▢ Send save-the-date cards or create a Facebook event
▢ Plan the wedding ceremony, including any readings
or special traditions
▢ Book accommodations for out-of-town guests and/or send guests accommodation recommendations
▢ Book transportation for the wedding party and guests (if needed)
▢ Start planning your honeymoon
▢ Register for wedding gifts or organise a wishing well
▢ Hire any additional vendors such as a wedding day-of coordinator or a calligrapher for invitations
▢ Choose and purchase wedding rings
▢ Choose and order wedding party attire
▢ Select, order and send out wedding invitations
▢ Choose and order a wedding cake and other desserts
▢ Plan and book the rehearsal dinner
▢ Plan the wedding day timeline
▢ Book a meeting with your celebrant to go over the
ceremony details
▢ Arrange for any necessary rental equipment, such as
tables, chairs, linens, etc.
▢ Choreograph and practice the first dance
practice makes perfect, so it's good to start early. If
you want a more relaxed first dance - prepare a
month before or make it up on the spot. Have fun
with it!
The Day Before
On Your Wedding Day
2-4 Months
1 Month
1-2 Weeks
wedding Timeline Planner
▢ Set a budget for the wedding
▢ Determine the size and style of wedding you want
▢ Begin creating mood boards for your stylist or yourself
▢ Choose your wedding date
▢ Select your wedding party if you are having one
▢ Research and book your venue/s
▢ Hire a wedding planner (if desired)
▢ Begin compiling a guest list
▢ Research and book vendors
▢ Start shopping for wedding attire and accessories
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
before the wedding
the wedding
▢ Book wedding attire fittings for you, your partner and
wedding party
▢ Choose wedding music
including special dances, entrances and reception
music
▢ Finalise menu with the caterer
▢ Book wedding band / DJ
▢ Confirm guest count with caterer and venue
▢ Pick and buy place cards, menus, seating chart,
signage, and table No
▢ Purchase gifts for the wedding party and parents
▢ Obtain marriage license
if registering your marriage before the wedding. You
do this so a friend can unofficially officiate your
ceremony on the day
▢ Make and share wedding day timeline with vendors,
party, and family
▢ Finalise all details with vendors
▢ Confirm guest count with caterer and venue
▢ Finalise seating chart
▢ Purchase any last-minute items like favours or gifts.
▢ Attend final wedding attire fittings
▢ Write vows
have someone review your vows for similar length
and emotional style
▢ Return my questionnaire with all info on timeline
and group shots
▢ Confirm any uncertain final details with all vendors
▢ Pack for honeymoon
▢ Pick up wedding attire
▢ Arrange for any final payments to vendors (my final
payment is now due)
▢ Have a final meeting with your wedding planner
(if applicable)
▢ Provide vendors and guests with an alternate number
for the wedding day
it could be the number of your wedding planner or a
knowledgeable friend/family member
▢ Relax and enjoy time with family and friends
▢ Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner
▢ Get a good night's sleep!
▢ Get ready with your partner and/or wedding party
▢ Feel free to ask your friends and family for help on
your big day
whether you need drinks, snacks, or anything else,
your friend and family want you to have an
unforgettable time. So go ahead and reach out to
them, and let them know what you need.
▢ Take a deep breath and enjoy each and every moment!
Print the Planner
