My Top 6 Tips for your Wedding Day!

You and your sweetheart have planned for months, maybe even a few years for your big day! Soon you’ll be walking down the aisle and saying “I Do” at the perfect venue in your dream dress. While you carefully plan all the details I’m here to help you with a few tips along the way. Here are the BIGGEST tips I can give you to reduce wedding day stress! Okay, are you ready?? The tips are all centered around, planning for your family and bridal party photos! Most people assume they should simply schedule some time for these photos, but there’s more to it, and I’ll help you prepare.

Here’s what can happen that makes this part of a wedding day so stressful. Sometimes family members go to the reception, and someone has to track them down. Grandpa walks off to go find coffee, the kiddos are restless, and everyone is just ready for dinner and dancing to begin. You name it, I’ve seen it happen, but not as frequently once I implemented this custom service for my wedding clients. I’ll share a part of it with you here, plus a free download at the end just for you!

Let’s dive in, and we’ll look at a few tips on how you can save yourself some stress and capture these memorable photos quickly.

1. Know your timeline.

While hopefully, you have a wedding day timeline, you’ll want to ensure you review it with your photographer and coordinator. Each wedding is unique, so talk with your photographer about the amount of time they recommend for these portraits. Most couples choose to capture family photos before bridal party photos, so that family members can make their way to the reception (we will talk about that more in a bit). Though this is common, it’s your day and if you’re having a first look, you might want all the photos done before the ceremony. (Please review your wedding day timeline with your photographer, coordinator, and other vendors.)

2. Compile a list of who you wish to have in family photos.

Sit down together and decide on the family members you wish to be photographed with. I recommend sticking with close family members such as parents, siblings, grandparents, etc. Once you have an idea of the groups you would like photographed, it’s time to make your shot list. It’s best to keep this list small I always advise around 8-10 groups/shots. Instead of only stating “mother & father of the Bride and mother & father of the Groom with us” and so on, use their names “Tim & Karen Cooper and Mark & Wendy Moore with us”. Providing first and last names keeps the list clear and concise. If your photographer has an assistant or second photographer, that person can read from this list and get the next group ready. If no assistant is available, ask a trusted friend or family member who will not be photographed to help out the photographer during this time. (Please discuss this with your photographer.) It’s always a great idea to provide your coordinator with a copy of this list.

3. Make a list of your desired Bridal Party portraits.

The list will depend on whether you have a first look and what portraits are taken before the ceremony. An example is the bride with her bridesmaids and the groom with his groomsmen. These are often done before the ceremony, which helps shorten your post-ceremony portrait time. Most commonly, the bridal party will only need to take full group photos after the ceremony since some may have been taken earlier in the day. A bridal party shot list template is also found in the free PDF guide below.

4. Location and considerations for family members.

Be sure to place any groups including children, elderly, or disabled family members at the beginning of the list and consider them in the location you choose for family photos. Consideration of these family members who are unable to walk long distances, stand for long, or are young and wiggly can mean a lot to them and any caregivers. Many couples utilize their wedding arch or ceremony space for family photos. Doing so reduces walking and provides a place to rest while they wait to be photographed with you. Another benefit is you are utilizing your ceremony space and decor within these images.

5. Let your family know about these portraits ahead of time.

Rehearsal is an ideal time to let your family members know they will be a part of family photos as well as when and where they will be taken. Your coordinator should have this list before the rehearsal as well. If you do not have a wedding coordinator, designate a family or bridal party member to make everyone aware. A great way to remind your family of portraits is to ask your officiant to make an announcement right after you exit, reminding the family members to stay after or where they will meet you for photos.

6. Let your photographer know of any sensitive family situations.

Many families have sensitive situations that can bring additional tension and stress to your big day. Letting your photographer know of any sensitive family dynamics will influence how your photographer helps you plan for family portraits. Make a note on your shot list this way these situations can be avoided or minimized during your family photos.

BONUS TIP! Take in the beauty of your wedding day!

The wedding planning process can be long and full of many emotions. You’ve discussed the details, plans, and vision for this incredible milestone with your fiancé, and your dreams will soon become a reality! This day will pass by in the blink of an eye, and I encourage all of my clients to slow down and take in the beauty of your wedding day! Sneaking away for portraits as soon as your ceremony ends, having a private dinner, or a private last dance are a few ideas my clients have had to enjoy the beauty of their wedding day. Take time to soak in the beauty, excitement, and memories on your wedding day! Remember, no matter the setbacks or detail changes that happen on your BIG day, the most important thing is your union as husband and wife.

It’s a privilege to document beautiful, authentic moments for couples and families in South West Virginia and beyond! I look forward to working with you soon!

Want a guide to planning your Family and Bridal Party photos? Here’s a freebie just for you!

Hi there, I’m Adrianne!

Originally from the foothills of North Carolina, I quickly fell in love with the similar scenery found in the Roanoke Valley. My love of photography began as a teen and has flourished ever since. I’m passionate about capturing fun and precious memories for my clients. Adrianne Therrien Photography is centered on creatively photographing beautiful, authentic moments. Kisses, belly laughs, and happy tears; I’m here for it all. I’ve fallen in love with documenting real moments in my clients’ lives. 

ATP proudly provides Wedding and Family Portrait services.