How to love your wedding

Hey, y’all… I’ve got something a little different for you today.  As a Greensboro wedding photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to speak to many wonderful couples recently about what they dream their wedding will be like.   So, I thought I’d give you some advice based on my observations is the (photo-taking) fly on the wall at many lovely weddings.  This will feature photos of the sweet couple, Lauren and Arthur, whom I had the pleasure of photographing while acting as second shooter for Steven from Photographer To Go.  So let’s dive right in, shall we?

Have fun getting ready.

Face it, you’re going to be nervous.  To stick it to the jitters, surround yourself with your sweet friends who will laugh, cry, sing, dance, eat, drink, and accidentally inhale all the hairspray fumes with you.  These ladies, like every other day of your life, are your anchors.  Don’t begin your day without them. <3

Do a first look. (Or don’t!)

Okay, so this is a big source of contention… to first look, or not to first look?

Personally, I think they are helpful for several reasons.  For you, they can help ease your nerves.  You get to see the reason for the whole event–the love of your life!

Selfishly, they help with the timeline.  When couples do first looks, that gives the photographer a chance to get many couple’s portraits, bridal party portraits, and family portraits done before the ceremony.  This makes it possible for you to get to the reception quicker.

But if that’s not your thing and you realllllllly want to see him for the first time at the altar, that’s totally fine, too! I’m just here for support. 🙂

Include something special in the ceremony.

Do whatever symbolic action you feel called to do.  Pour that sand, tie those knots, break that wine glass, jump over that broom, share the Gospel with your guests… just do it!

Lauren and Arthur have this wooden box with a bottle of wine for them to enjoy on their first anniversary.  It’s a sweet assurance that they will work through whatever challenges their first year of marriage represents, and will look back with enjoyment and peace at all they have overcome.

Enjoy the sweetness of your marriage during your portrait session.

This is the first thing you do as a married couple!  Let your joy radiate in all your photos.  Joy looks good on everyone!

Savor the reception.

Speeches, sweet treats, laughter, and happy chatter are a sign of a successful wedding reception.  Take time to enjoy this day, when everyone you love most is surrounding you with warmth and well-wishes.

Dance. And then dance some more.

I’ll just let these photos speak for themselves.

Sparkle.

As your day comes to an end and you’re being whisked off to your happily ever after, pause and savor it.  Even if little things went wrong, remember how loved you are by everyone present for your special day.  This alone should comfort and encourage you!

After your wedding is over, don’t forget that everyone who was present is fully invested in you and your marriage.  They are witnesses of your union, and have attended your big day because they believe in the love you have for each other.  When times get hard, it is their duty to help you.  And don’t forget to share your successes and celebrate with them, too!

If you need someone to photograph you, encourage you, and delight in the excitement of the day with you, it would be an honor and a privilege!  Let’s talk soon, love.

Cheers,
Jenn