I heard it said a thousand times, and yet, I was surprised at just how quickly our wedding day flew by. From the moment I woke up, I felt like there was so much to do, so many people to talk to, so many photos we wanted…. Before I knew it, we were heading to our honeymoon cabin and it was all over.
I know I’m not the only one who feels this way- I’ve heard so many past clients say something similar, like Kristin: “Thank goodness I hired you and Justin! So much happened so quickly that I don’t think I’d remember hardly anything without the beautiful photos!”
With all that said, I can’t preach enough how important it is to PLAN time for all the people and moments you want on your wedding day! If it’s not on the schedule, unfortunately, it’s probably not going to happen. That’s why I’m sharing 6 of my favorite special moments that you should consider incorporating into your wedding day timeline-
1) Saying your own vows
Your wedding day is THE day to say it all. There’s no opportunity more romantic to say everything you feel for your partner: how they better you, the things you love about them, your hopes for the future. If you feel nervous about saying your own vows in front of your guests, create a few minutes you can read them to each other privately. If you decide not to say your own vows or your church doesn’t allow it, we’d highly encourage you to, at minimum, take the time to write it in a letter you can exchange on the wedding day. This is a once in a lifetime moment, and planning it into your day is something you’ll truly never regret.
2) A first look (with someone!)
If you’ve read our blog 5 reasons to consider a first look, then you know how special that time was to Justin and I (Truly one of my favorite moments of my entire life). That said, everyone should choose what feels right in their gut when it comes to seeing each other pre-ceremony or not! If you don’t decide to do a first look with your future spouse, we also love the sweet moments that unfold when a bride plans a first look with her dad, or a first look with her bridesmaids after she’s in her wedding gown. Any and all first looks are precious in our book!
3) A final private dance
I’ll say it again- the wedding day is truly a whirlwind and flies by. Before you know it, your guests are lining up outside, sparklers in hand, to send you on your way to newlywed bliss! Why not plan a private last dance, just the two of you, before you run to that getaway car? Such a sentimental dance to truly take a last moment and soak it all in.
4) Time to see your guests at cocktail hour
One huge benefit our first look couples really love is the opportunity to mingle with guests at cocktail hour! Everyone is truly SO thrilled to see the bride and groom, and I love photographing those candid hugs and pure excitement as guests get to congratulate the newlywed couple. Even if you decide not to do a first look, I’d highly encourage a 90 minute cocktail hour so you can catch the last 15 minutes and enjoy some casual time with your nearest and dearest.
5) Quality time with the people who mean the most to you
From your parents, to your maid of honor, to your future in-laws, there are usually SO many people to thank for helping the wedding weekend come together. I love when brides and grooms plan time into the day to give hugs, gifts, or notes of gratitude to those who have supported them through it all. It’s truly always a beautiful and candid time full of emotion that we love to photograph.
6) A Reception room reveal
After all the time, money, and planning that went into creating a gorgeous reception for your friends and family, its so fun to get the first glance when it all comes together! Definitely plan for 5 minutes in that timeline before the reception doors open to see the space your dreamt up in all it’s glory (and give your wedding planner the hug she deserves!)
If you love candid, emotion-filled wedding photos, you really can’t go wrong by planning some or all of the moments above into your wedding day timeline! Making time for the people and memories that matter most, on the day that matters most, is something you’ll never regret.
Want more wedding planning advice? Check out these family photo tips!
XO
Ashley
