Your wedding journey
Wedding Preparation Guide
This guide is designed to help you feel calm, prepared, and completely present on your wedding day. Every detail here has been crafted from years of photographing weddings — the moments that matter most, and how to make space for them.
Before the Day
Share your vision
Send me your Pinterest board, inspiration images, or simply describe the feeling you want. The more I understand your aesthetic — romantic, editorial, candid, moody — the better I can anticipate and capture it.
Plan your timeline
A relaxed timeline is the single biggest gift you can give yourself. Build in buffer time between getting ready, portraits, and ceremony. I recommend at least 90 minutes for bridal prep and 45 minutes for couple portraits.
Scout your locations
If you have a specific portrait location in mind, visit it at the same time of day as your shoot. Note where the light falls, any obstructions, and how long it takes to travel between venues.
Prepare your details
Gather your rings, invitation suite, perfume, shoes, and any heirloom pieces the night before. These flat-lay details are photographed first thing — having them ready means we start the day with ease.
Getting Ready
Choose your getting-ready space
A room with large windows and natural light makes a significant difference. Clear away clutter, hang your dress near the window, and keep the space tidy so the background enhances rather than distracts.
Hair and makeup timing
Schedule hair and makeup to finish 30–45 minutes before we need to leave. This gives us time for relaxed portraits in your dress before the ceremony, without the rush.
Who should be in the room
Keep the getting-ready space intimate — your closest people only. A calm, unhurried atmosphere translates directly into the photographs.
The Ceremony
Communicate with your celebrant
Let your celebrant know I'll be moving during the ceremony. Discuss whether flash is permitted and if there are any restricted moments. A brief conversation beforehand prevents surprises.
Slow down
Walk down the aisle slowly — more slowly than feels natural. Pause at the end of the aisle to take it all in. These are the frames you'll return to for decades.
The first look
If you're considering a first look before the ceremony, it allows for relaxed couple portraits and means you can be fully present during cocktail hour. It's entirely your choice — both approaches create beautiful images.
Couple Portraits
Golden hour portraits
The hour before sunset produces the most luminous, romantic light. If possible, schedule 20–30 minutes away from your guests during this window. Your guests will understand — and the images will be extraordinary.
Just be together
During portraits, forget the camera. Hold hands, whisper something, laugh. My job is to document your connection — your only job is to be present with each other.
Locations within your venue
We'll scout the best spots together on the day. Look for interesting architecture, garden paths, soft window light, or a quiet corner away from the crowd.
Reception & Beyond
Key reception moments
Let me know which moments matter most — first dance, speeches, cake cutting, bouquet toss. I'll be there for all of it, but knowing your priorities helps me plan my positioning.
After the reception
Some of the most intimate images happen at the end of the night — just the two of you, the venue quiet, the day finally yours. If you'd like a short session after the formalities, let me know in advance.
Every wedding is different, and I'll always adapt to yours. If you have questions not covered here, please reach out — I'm here to make this as seamless and joyful as possible.
Planning resources
Downloadable Templates
These templates are yours to fill in and share with your wedding party, planner, or vendors.
Wedding Day Timeline Template
A structured timeline to plan your entire day from getting ready through to reception.
Shot List & Must-Have Moments
A curated list of essential shots plus space to add your own family groupings and special requests.
Getting Ready Checklist
Everything to prepare the night before — details, outfits, and room setup for beautiful getting-ready images.
Vendor Contact Sheet
Keep all your vendor details in one place for easy sharing with your photographer on the day.