welcome to our wedding day guide
experience
Thank you again for choosing to work with us and please don't hesitate to let us know if we can offer any additional guidance throughout the wedding planning process!
We're thrilled to be working with you and can't wait to learn more about you over the coming months! We understand that photography is one of the biggest investments for your wedding day, and we're truly honored that you've chosen us.
Whether you're working with a wedding planner or planning a smaller, intimate wedding, there's still a lot to manage before the big day.
With over 150 weddings under our belt, we've noticed that many couples have similar questions. That's why we've created a guide to walk you through everything you need to know—from planning timelines to engagement sessions and even what to do if the weather doesn't cooperate."
We absolutely love engagement sessions, and here's why. They not only help you get used to being in front of the camera but also give you the chance to express your personalities in a relaxed setting that has meaning for you both. We’ve put together a whole page full of outfit suggestions, location inspirations, timing tips, and much more
ENGAGEMENT SESSION
Over the years, we've learned the important role quality vendors play in creating a stress-free wedding day. We've worked with many of the vendors below and we can't recommend them enough! This is not a paid list - we chose these vendors for both the quality of their work as well as their professionalism on the actual wedding day.
OUR PREFERRED VENDORS LIST
OFFICIANT
CALLIGRAPHY
Invitations
RENTALS
WEDDING DRESS
CAKES
HAIR & MAKEUP
DJ & BANDS
CATERING
ViDEOGRAPHY
FLORAL DESIGNERS
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WEDDING PLANNERS
a collection of vendors I've worked with and recommend
preferred Vendors
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Bridal Portraits
Here's why you'll love a bridal portrait session:
Ever wonder how your hair and makeup will photograph on the big day? A bridal portrait session is your chance to not only capture stunning pre-wedding photos but also have a dress rehearsal for flawless wedding day style.
Confidence in the Spotlight: It's like a trial run for your wedding day look! See how your hair holds up, how your makeup photographs, and feel completely at ease knowing you'll look radiant.
Practice Makes Perfect: We'll spend 1-2 hours capturing your beauty, giving you time to get comfortable posing and holding your bouquet (it can feel a bit awkward at first!).
Location Inspiration: We recommend well-maintained locations with both indoor and outdoor variety. Historic homes, resorts, or even your wedding venue itself can create stunning backdrops.
Weather Wisdom: Aim for comfortable temperatures - spring or fall are ideal. But hey, beautiful light is key, so we're flexible!
Venue Considerations: Many venues have portrait session fees, but the convenience of using their getting-ready room and other services can be a plus. We typically shoot late afternoons for softer light, but can work with the venue's schedule.
bride detail checklist
ENGAGEMENT + WEDDING bands (& if you have a pretty ring box!)
SHOES
VEIL
BOUQUET
HAIR PIECES
JEWELRY
VOW BOOK
Dress & Hanger
Rings & Ring Box
BONUS: EXTRA FLOWERS
I once had a bride bring her grandmother's handkerchief. This is completely optional - but if you have something sentimental you'd like styled with your details, I love including family heirlooms in your detail shots.
SENTIMENTAL KEEPSAKES
2 FULL SETS WITH ENVELOPES + STAMPS & ANY OTHER PAPER STATIONARY YOU MAY HAVE (LIKE PROGRAM CARDS, ETC)
I'd LOVE TO HAVE A FEW CUTS OF THE FLORALS YOU'LL BE USING THROUGHOUT YOUR WEDDING DAY. IF YOUR FLORIST WILL SUPPLY A SMALL BUCKET OF EXTRA PIECES I CAN INCORPORATE THOSE IN YOUR DETAIL SHOTS.
INVITATION SUITE
Considering taking your bridal portrait before your big day
First Looks
That special moment when the Bride and Groom lay eyes on each other for the first time on their wedding day holds an undeniable magic. Whether they opt to savor this moment as the bride makes her grand entrance down the aisle or opt for a heartfelt "first look" before the ceremony begins, the emotions run deep.
In recent years, "first looks"—intimate moments shared by the couple before the ceremony—have gained popularity. In fact, nearly half of our couples this year have chosen to embrace this trend.
While we hold dear to tradition, we believe there are compelling reasons to consider a "first look." Here are three to ponder:
what is a first look & should i do it?
Here's a secret weapon against unpredictable weather: the First Look! If rain clouds threaten your big day, a First Look gives us the flexibility to capture stunning photos indoors or in a sheltered location. No more worrying about downpours interrupting your dream outdoor portraits!
Plus, let's be honest, some happy tears are practically guaranteed on your wedding day. A First Look gives you a private moment to composure yourselves and maybe do a quick touch-up before walking down the aisle, ensuring you look your absolute best for the ceremony.
But remember, the magic of seeing each other is special no matter what! Whether you choose a traditional aisle reveal or a private First Look, we'll capture the raw emotions and timeless beauty of your love story.
Here's the thing: without a First Look, most photos get squeezed in after the ceremony. Family pictures happen right away (because, hey, everyone's there!), followed by bridal party shots, then finally, you and your partner. This often bleeds right into cocktail hour, leaving you feeling rushed and missing out on mingling with loved ones.
But with a First Look? It's a game-changer! We can capture stunning photos of you and your bridal party before the ceremony. We can even grab a few gorgeous portraits of just the two of you (though golden hour sunsets are still our favorite for those!). This frees up precious time after the "I do's" so you can relax, enjoy catching up with guests, and actually savor your cocktail hour. It's a win-win for everyone: you get amazing photos and a stress-free start to your reception!
Picture Perfect and Stress-Free: How a First Look Saves the Day (and Cocktail Hour!)
AND ANOTHER PERK OF DOING A FIRST LOOK - WEATHERPROOF YOUR MEMORIES (AND MASCARA!)
The ceremony kicks off, and suddenly, it feels like the day is on fast forward. A First Look is your chance to hit pause, to steal some quiet moments together before the whirlwind begins. It's a chance to simply be present with each other, to savor the weight of the day, and to connect before the celebrations take flight.
Wedding days are a beautiful whirlwind, a kaleidoscope of emotions and activity. But let's be honest, they can also feel like a blur. A First Look creates a peaceful haven just for the two of you. It's a chance to share a laugh, soak in the excitement, and truly appreciate the moment before the day unfolds. We know how important it is to savor every detail of your wedding, and a First Look can help you do just that.
first look might be just perfect for you?
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We're here to help you design a seamless timeline for your wedding day, no matter your preference! Whether you choose a classic "no see before the ceremony" approach or a romantic First Look, we'll work with you to capture every special moment.
The Traditional Timeline: This approach requires two separate photo sessions – one before the ceremony and one after.
Pre-Ceremony: Expect to dedicate about an hour each to capturing beautiful photos of the bride with her bridesmaids and family, and the groom with his groomsmen and family. We'll also grab some quick combined bridal party and family portraits (around 15 minutes each). Finally, after the ceremony, allow 30-45 minutes for stunning couple's portraits.
The First Look Timeline: This option allows us to capture all your portraits in one session, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours before the ceremony. This includes photos with your bridal party, family, and of course, those must-have couple's portraits (and yes, we love squeezing in some extra portraits of just the two of you at golden hour too!).
Here are some additional tips for a smooth timeline:
Traditional Ceremony: Be mindful of your ceremony time when planning your overall schedule. Especially for sunset or evening ceremonies, capturing family, bridal party, and couple's portraits before the ceremony is ideal to ensure the best possible light.
Sunset Magic: If you have your heart set on a sunset ceremony, a First Look might be your best bet! This allows us to capture all your portraits beforehand, while the sun is still high in the sky.
Remember, this is your special day! We'll work closely with you to craft a timeline that reflects your unique preferences and ensures we capture every precious moment.
Wedding Day
Traditional or with first look?
timeline
crafting your dream timeline
12:00 pm
COVERAGE BEGINS & DETAIL SHOTS
12:45 pm
BRIDE GETS DRESSED + FIRST LOOK WITH DAD
1:00 pm
BRIDAL PORTRAITS + BRIDES AND BRIDESMAID PORTRAITS
1:30 pm
GROOM'S FINAL PREPARATIONS & DETAILS
2:00 pm
GROOM + GROOMSMEN PORTRAITS
2:30 pm
hide bride away
3:15 pm
first look pictures
4:00 pm
bridal party pictures
4:30 pm
ceremony detail shots
5:00 pm
ceremony begins
5:30 pm
family photos + cocktail hour
6:00 pm
candid cocktail hour photos
6:15 pm
BRIDE & GROOM FIRST LOOK OF VENUE + photograph reception area + details
6:30 pm
reception begins
6:40 pm
grand entrance + first dance
6:45 pm
DINNER is served
7:15 pm
toasts
7:30 pm
OTHER DANCES + ACTIVITIES
7:45 pm
SPEECHES
8:00 pm
GAMES OR OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS
with a
first look 10 HOURS COVERAGE timeline example
FIRST LOOK
8:30 pm
cake cutting, bouquet + garter toss
10:00 pm
SPARKLING eXIt photos + coverage ends
1:00 PM
COVERAGE BEGINS & DETAIL SHOTS
2:00 PM
BRIDE GETS DRESSED + FIRST LOOK WITH DAD
2:30 PM
BRIDAL PORTRAITS + BRIDES AND BRIDESMAID PORTRAITS
3:00 PM
GROOM'S FINAL PREPARATIONS & DETAILS
3:30 PM
GROOM + GROOMSMEN PORTRAITS
4:30 pm
PHOTOGRAPH GUESTS ENTERING CEREMONY
5:00 pm
ceremony begins
5:30 pm
family photos + cocktail hour
5:45 PM
BRIDAL PARTY PHOTOS
6:30 pm
BRIDE + GROOM PORTRAITS
6:45 pm
BRIDE & GROOM FIRST LOOK OF VENUE + PHOTOGRAPH RECEPTION AREA
7:00 PM
RECEPTION BEGINS
7:10 PM
GRAND ENTRANCE + FIRST DANCE
7:30 pm
DINNER IS SERVED
8:00 PM
SPEECHES
8:30 PM
DANCING
9:00 PM
CAKE CUTTING + GARTER TOSS
without a first look
traditional 10 hours timeline example
Traditional
4:00 PM
PHOTOGRAPH CEREMONY SITE
9:30 PM
PARTY
11:00 PM
SPARKLING exit photos + coverage ends
We know you've poured your heart into every detail of your wedding day, and we love capturing those special touches! Here's a heads up on what to expect when we arrive:
We'll dedicate about 30 minutes to beautifully showcase the details you've so thoughtfully chosen. To ensure we capture everything perfectly, we recommend a well-lit getting-ready space. If possible, keeping the area clear of clutter helps us create a clean and elegant backdrop for your details.
getting ready for your perfect day
WEDDING DAY DETAILS
Dress
Dress Hanger (a custom or a pretty one!)
Rings (both engagement and wedding bands)
Shoes
Veil
Bouquet
Ring
Hair pieces
Jewelry
Invitation Suite (2 full sets with envelopes + stamps)
Any other paper stationary you may have like program cards.
Vow Book
Any other sentimental keepsakes you would like to include
We once had a bride bring her grandmother's necklace. This is completely optional - but if you have something sentimental you'd like styled with your details, we love including family heirlooms in our detail shots.
Bonus: We'd love to have a few cuts of the florals you'll be using throughout your wedding day. If your florist will supply us a small bucket of extra pieces we can incorporate those in your detail shots.
BRIDAL DETAILS CHECKLIST:
groom detail checklist
His shoes
Socks
Cuff Links
Tie or Bow Tie
Pocket Square
Boutonnière
Vows Book
Rings
ANYTHING ELSE SPECIAL OR SENTIMENTAL.
(IF THEY'RE SPECIAL)
Don't worry—rainy days can be stunning! If you need proof, just check out (a client gallery)'s wedding. It rained all day, and it was still absolutely gorgeous.
If showers are in the forecast, consider ordering a few clear umbrellas from Amazon. This not only adds a fun visual element to your photos but also keeps you dry. It's also a good idea to re-evaluate your portrait locations to ensure we can still capture natural light—this might mean choosing a different spot, even if it's offsite.
Don't own a pair of cute Wellies? Now might be the perfect time to get some, even if you only wear them while moving between shooting locations. If you're not working with a wedding planner, it's smart to check in with your vendor team about the weather. Hair and makeup may need to be adjusted for humidity, and DJs or bands might need extra protection for their equipment if your event is outdoors. A reliable rental team can help reduce the impact of mud on your outdoor setup.
While we can't promise that rain on your wedding day brings good luck, we can promise a plan that ensures a beautiful day and gorgeous photos, rain or shine.
Rainy day weddings might require a bit more flexibility and creativity, but there's no reason they can't be as joyful and stunning as sunny weddings!
what if the weather is bad OR it'S RAINING?
the case of a rainy wedding day
We love to capture a close-up photo of your rings while you're getting ready, to add a touch of extra sparkle to your photos! For a quick shine boost, consider cleaning your engagement ring beforehand. Here's a simple trick: soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20-40 minutes, then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush. Rinse and repeat if needed.
To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
THE RINGS
Here's how we'll capture your heartwarming family portraits:
We start big! We'll gather everyone for a grand group photo, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and more. Then, we'll gradually whittle down the group, capturing photos with grandparents, parents, and siblings.
Think of it like building blocks! We'll strategically add and remove family members to capture the combinations you desire. This might include photos of you and your parents, you and your siblings, some with your partner and your family, and so on. We'll repeat this process with your partner's family to ensure everyone is included.
The key to a smooth flow? A little advanced planning! Sharing this information with your family beforehand helps everyone understand the process.
Don't worry about memorizing every combination! We'll send you a pre-wedding questionnaire where you can specify your desired family groupings and address any special situations.
TIPS FOR YOUR FAMILY & GROUP PICTURES
FORMAL FAMILY & GROUP PICTURES
Please be aware that this list is just a starting point; we're glad to take any additional family portraits as long as time permits!Relax, have fun, and let's capture the love!
FAMILy FORMALS CHECKLIST
Bride + Groom + Bride's Extended Family
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Bride's Siblings + Bride's Grandparents
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Bride's Siblings
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents
Bride + Groom + Bride's Siblings
Bride + Mom
Bride + Dad
Bride + Groom + Groom's Extended Family
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Groom's Siblings + Groom's Grandparents
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Groom's Siblings
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents
Bride + Groom + Groom's Siblings
Groom + Mom
Groom + Dad
FAMILY FORMAL CHECKLIST
Have you noticed a trend lately? More and more couples are requesting "unplugged" ceremonies, asking guests to put down their phones for the duration. This might seem like an unusual request, but there's a thoughtful reason behind it!
As your wedding photographers, we're dedicated to capturing every precious moment of your ceremony. The last thing you want are photos filled with phones, tablets, or even well-meaning guests standing in the aisle with their own cameras. An unplugged ceremony ensures we can capture your vows, expressions, and the pure joy of your union perfectly.
By politely requesting guests to "unplug" during the ceremony, you're allowing us to document your special day beautifully, without any distractions. This way, you can truly be present in the moment and cherish these memories for years to come.
UNPLUGGED CEREMONIES
CONSIDER UNPLUGGING
Creating Lasting Memories: Why We Love Unplugged Ceremonies
01 of 09
Ensure your bouquet is delivered in time for the detail shots and your first look. Bouquets often arrive in water and may need to be dried off before use, so keep some towels handy for a quick dry-off.
Extra florals for your wedding details shots.
ADDITIONAL tips
02 of 09
If you're getting married during the summer, consider having a light snack or lunchtime meal before the portrait session. This way, you and your bridal party can avoid those hungry bellies and any risk of fainting during the shoot!
Don't for the snacks
snacks
03 of 09
If the weather's going to be hot, a cooler filled with cold water and frozen washcloths can be a lifesaver to keep your wedding party cool—especially if the men are wearing multiple layers.
Prep for the heat
heat
04 of 09
If you're planning a first look with your bridal party or a parent, they usually prefer to be fully dressed in their wedding attire. This way, they feel more comfortable and ready for the special moment.
first look for parents
first look
05 of 09
If your reception is at a different venue, consider adding some 'buffer time' in your schedule. This allows us to go to the venue and capture it while it's still pristine and untouched by guests.
first look at venue
Fluff time
06 of 09
We always suggest the bride 'go into hiding' at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. This is because guests often arrive early, and this way you can avoid being seen before your grand entrance.
ceremony tips
HIDE THE BRIDE
07 of 09
Family portraits go smoother when both sides of the family have a chance to suggest which portraits they'd like before the wedding. To ensure everything goes as planned, we recommend assigning a family member to manage the group photo list. They can help gather everyone at the right time, which is especially useful since we don't know all your relatives. Also, make sure to print out the list, so nothing is missed.
family & group pictures
make a list
08 of 09
During the cocktail hour and reception, we'll be right there with you. If you want a photo with someone, just give us a wave or call us over. We're thrilled to be your personal paparazzi!
Personal Paparazzi!
photo anyone?
09 of 09
We'd be delighted to help you plan your timeline. If you'd like our input, feel free to email or call us anytime!
We'd love to hear from you!
wE'RE HERE TO HELP
The fun has begun! it's time to relax, dance & celebrate! Your reception should be a BLAST! The last thing you need to be worry about is your timeline. Your coordinator and DJ should take care of making sure that everything stays on schedule so that you enjoy your night. Here are some helpful tips that will help your reception flow smoothly.
Take your guests into consideration when planning your timeline. If you have a lot of elderly guests that will not be staying until the very end, make sure you schedule the cake cutting at a relatively early time so that they can be a part of it. Grandma's love seeing this sweet tradition!
Guest Consideration
Chat with your coordinator about how you can plan your reception in a way that will keep guests engaged and moving all night!
Keep it Moving
In the formalities and the details. Sure, details are pretty and fun to photograph, but they can steal the joy of the day if you get too caught up in them. (Just speaking from experience here). Plan your centrepieces, welcome table etc, well before the wedding date, and teach your coordinator or family friend how to set them up so you aren't even thinking about those things the day of!
Don't get caught up!
Reception tips
handcrafted heirlooms
our signature album
We believe wedding photos are more than just pixels on a screen. They're tangible keepsakes, designed to be cherished for generations to come. In a world of fleeting trends and ever-changing technology, printed albums offer a timeless way to preserve your memories.
Wedding albums are available a la carte or as part of your wedding collection.
PRICING
20 PAGES 12X8.5 ALBUM
Linen: $!,200
leather: $1,500
additional 2-page spread: $100
parent albums
(12x8.5, 13.5x10)
linen: $650 each
leader: $1000 each
additional 2-page spread: $60
After you receive your online gallery, the celebration continues! We offer heirloom-quality albums and a variety of printing options to turn your digital memories into tangible keepsakes.
Albums require prepayment and take 4-6 weeks to complete, so plan ahead for holiday gifts (order by November 1st!). We'll be here to guide you every step of the way and ensure your wedding story is beautifully preserved.
If you have any questions or would just like to chat, we're here for you. Thank you so much for taking the time to read through our guide!
We hope this guide helps make the process of planning your wedding details much easier and less stressful.We just can't wait to start planning with you and getting to know you! If you haven't scheduled your engagement session yet, let's get that in the books.
Feel free to email us any time at hello@designedbybetty.com.
