The schedule is there for a reason

Every so often, we encounter a couple who sets up a schedule with us and then throws said schedule out the window on the wedding day. Oftentimes, the couple’s reasoning behind refusing to go by the schedule is simply due to the stress they’re dealing with. After months of planning, they’re exhausted and they’ve reached a breaking point where they refuse to do anything but sit down and relax. While our team is very good about managing changes in schedule, there is only so much we can do. For example, we’ve had couples decide to skip more couples portraits and take extra time on their party bus, resulting in very few couples portraits. We’ve worked with couples who went straight into the cocktail hour, leaving all their family, friends and their media team waiting for them to come out for photos while they partied inside. Some couples say they want to prioritize golden hour photos, but when golden hour comes, they don’t want to leave the dance floor. So please keep in mind, when you change the schedule, you could be taking that time away from the photos and video you’ve asked for. If you show up to your reception 30-45 minutes late having left no time for important shots, there is nothing we can do about that. It is up to your media team to help manage the schedule and keep everything on track. But we cannot force anyone to cooperate. If you decide not to follow the schedule, your media team cannot be held liable for any missed shots. 

Have a well organized family photo list

Family photos can get a little crazy, especially when you add in the extended family members. Having a well organized family photos list with everyone’s names clearly written out and what groups of people you want to have photographed together can make a world of difference. Having a list allows your photographers to call people’s names and move through the list quickly and efficiently.

Don’t start the heavy drinking until all the important photos and videos have been taken

Everyone’s favorite part about a wedding is the partying. But before the party starts, there are just a few boxes we have to check off when it comes to the shots you want for your photos and video. An alcoholic beverage here or there throughout the day doesn’t hurt. But keep an eye on how much you are drinking. You don’t want to get too fuzzy headed during important photos. After all, these are the photos you’ll have to look back on for the rest of your life and you want to look your best!

Don’t take off your veil or any important pieces of your outfit off until after your couple's portraits. 

Depending on the style of your veil, headpiece, or accessories, they can become very heavy and irritating to have to wear. But, if you can stick it out until after your couple’s portraits, you’ll be very happy you did as you’ll have those important pieces to remember for the rest of your life!

Double check if your venue allows Drones

Some venues are picky about drones. Whether it’s a venue owner’s preference, or your venue is close to an airport, we recommend double checking as we try to be as respectful as possible.

Don’t hold back the happy tears

Many couple’s hesitate to cry in front of anyone, especially when cameras are involved. But crying happy tears on your wedding day is nothing to be ashamed of. And when you look back at your photo gallery and your video, you’ll be able to relive those precious memories and all the happy feelings you felt!

Relax and go with the flow

Unexpected bumps in the road can come up on your wedding day. But try not to stress out. Let your vendors you’ve entrusted with your day take on the stress and we will do our absolute best to handle it. Although it’s not in our job title, we’ve even helped scrub a dish or two if it means we can take a load of stress off your shoulders!

Have a detail box ready to go

The day of your wedding will be chaotic for the getting ready process. With bridesmaids and groomsmen all in their corners trying to get ready in a tight space, you’ll see socks, ties, jewelry and all sorts of things scattered in the getting ready rooms. Having your detail boxes ready to go and organized will help avoid the frantic searching for all the important pieces! Your detail box should include:

Shoes/perfume/cologne jewelry/cufflinks tie/bowtie/veil/His & Her vow books (Optional)Invitations (optional)Wedding bands and engagement rings