Wedding Walkthrough Wednesday: Bridal Details

Being behind the scenes on weddings day has given me a new perspective. I haven't been married, I'm not engaged...so this is something that I've learned over my time shooting as a wedding photographer and a second shooter.

There are a few tips that I have to ease that stress on the morning of.

But my biggest tip is to HAVE ALL OF YOUR DETAILS TOGETHER. When I first arrive to start shooting, the first thing on my to-do list for the day is to shoot bridal details, only after saying hello to the bride and introducing myself to the bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride. So what things should you have together? 

Details to have waiting for your photographer: 

1. The Dress

Yes, of course the dress will be there. But to ensure that you have a stress free morning...have this waiting with the rest of your details. Plus, it doesn't hurt to have a pretty hanger. You don't have to spend a ton of money on a custom wooden hanger with your new married name written with wire but a nice wooden hanger will do just the trick. 

2. The Jewelry

THE RINGS, ALL THREE. Yes, the groomsmen carry one ring and the maid of honor carries one. But wait until after your photographer photographs them all together before you split them up. If you have them all there, it will save your photographer time trying to track them down and asking you were they are, who has them, what time will they arrive, etc. Trust me.

I know the week of the wedding is filled with lots of last minute to-do items, but I always suggest finding time to get your engagement ring cleaned. Not only will it be the subject of photographs during the "bridal details" section of the day, but guests love to ask to see the ring during the reception. You want to make sure that bad boy is sparkly clean.

Other jewelry to gather for your photographer (keep in mind you don't have to have all of the items listed below):

• Necklace
• Bracelets 
• Earrings
• Tiaras, headbands, broaches for your hair
• Belt for your wedding dress

3. Shoes

I can appreciate a pretty pair of shoes just as much as the next girl and they are such a dream to photograph. Whether its sparkly gold or blush heels with a fun flower detail. Gimme all the shoes. 

4. The Invitation Suite & Paper Goods

This is a big one too. It may seem silly to bring along your invitation suite... "we sent that out months ago". But the invitation suite helps tell the story of your day. I love photographing and styling invitations along with the rings and other accessories because it adds a consistent feel to your images. As a photographer I want to capture all the paper goods which includes: the actual invitation, RSVP cards, save-the-dates and their corresponding envelopes, a program, menus. 

Also, if you have a specially designed seal or stamp that you are using to deliver these to your guest...that's important to. You've spent so much time picking them out, addressing them, sealing them, and sending them, that I want to make sure that I am capturing all of your hard work. It only helps that it increases the amount of pictures and provides versatility in your images. 

5. The Bouquets

While it may seem like a great idea to have your flowers sent directly to the ceremony site, it's a better idea to have your bouquet with the rest of your bridal details. Not only do you want an uninterrupted shot of this gorgeous piece of art that you've paid so much money for, but it will also help enhance your other details. Having your bouquet and any "extra" or loose flowers around can add a dynamic and cohesive look to this part of the day. 

6. Fun Extras & Keepsakes

 Perfume, your grandmothers handkerchief that she used and your mother used when they walked down the aisle,  or handwritten vows/notes to each other.

So there you have it...a list of bridal details that you should make sure you pack so that your wedding photographer can tell your story. Little details add up so make sure you plan to have everything in one central location when your photographer arrives.