session details, tips, and answers
Wedding Day
Let's get real about weddings, folks. I'm fully aware that your big day is a symphony of unique elements, and yeah, I know it comes with a side of stress. But guess what? Stress is not the main act here; it doesn't have to steal the show.
Consider me not just your photographer but your extra set of hands – here to guide you through the entire experience.
Scroll through this page and snag some killer tips – from planning hacks to day-of action items – all aimed at dialing down your stress levels and skyrocketing your wedding day photos to legendary status. Let's make this journey as smooth as silk and your photos as kick-ass as your love story.
The Experience
01.
CELEBRATIONS BRIDAL
A.CHERIE COUTURE
UNBRIDALED
BYKOWSKI TAILOR & GARB
FT. LONESOME
gowns/suits
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT
AT LAST ENTERTAINMENT
BOOGIE BONES
CRUZ COLLECTIVE
HARPISTRY TX
TERRA VISTA STRINGS
dj/bands
CAKES COUTURE
CAKES ROCK
CAKES BY TORI ELIZABETH
SUE C CAKES
cakes/desserts
ANNE MARIE'S CATERING
CRAVE CATERING
GOT IT COVERED EVENTS
RIVER CITY CATERING
SMOKE IN THE HILLS BBQ
STARS AND STRIPES COFFEE
CREATURE COFFEE
BROOKLYND'S COFFEE & TEA
catering
SUE BEE VINTAGE
CATHAUS DESIGNS
DISCO FLAIR RENTALS
MOONTOWER RENTALS
UNIQUE DESIGN & EVENTS
SCARLET ROSE COLLECTIVE
decor/rentals
SOUTHERN TEASE*
MADE 3 BEAUTY
BEAUTY BY BRITTANY
MADAME MAKEUP ON LOCATION
SKADI’S FRISOR
hair/makeup
IMAGINE FILMS SA
MANNY VASQUEZ FILMS
MATT VENTURE MEDIA
MOBILE BOEHME
NEW BEGINNINGS FILM
videographers
FIELDING ATX
NATIVE BLUME
PETALE HAUS
REILEY + ROSE
SUNRISE PETAL CO
WOW FACTOR FLORAL
florals
HEART TO HOME
LAZY CREEK DESIGNS
CALLIROSA
ROSEVILLE DESIGNS
EVERY LITTLE SOMETHING
KELSEY MALIE DESIGN
signage/invites
THE PERFECT DAY*
CLAY + VINE EVENTS
K. LAINE AND CO
MEEK & WILD
VINTAGE & LACE
planners
a collection of vendors I've worked with and trust
vendors
02.
SUGAR CLOUDS
VICTORIA'S VISUALS
DFNTLY ENTERTAINMENT
CHURRO CART CO
ATX EVENT SYSTEMS
BORRACHO BURROS
RUIZ CIGARS AND ROLLERS
miscellaneous
SOUTHERN STANDARD*
BARTENDERS4YOU
THE POUR HORSE
BARTENDERS AND DREAMS
bar
the first look timeline ⟶
the traditional timeline ⟶
Crafting a wedding day timeline is not just encouraged; it's your golden ticket to keeping all your fabulous vendors in check and layering some time-security on your big day.
As the countdown to your wedding kicks into high gear, expect a friendly email from me. We're diving deep into your wedding day timeline, making sure I'm on the same page as you when it comes to your priorities.
Whether you're all about that first look or going full-on traditional, I've got your back. Check out these two kick-ass sample timelines to sprinkle some inspiration on your planning journey:
Timeline
03.
9: Hair and makeup begins
1: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:30: Bride gets into dress; Groom puts on suit jacket/tie/boutonniere
3:30: Photos of Bride and Bridesmaids
4: Photos of Groom + Groomsmen
4:30: Photographers take ceremony and reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6: Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:30: Family formals
6:30–6:40: Entire wedding party
6:40–7:15: Newlywed photos
7:30: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:35: First dance
7:40: Toast(s)
7:45: Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off
the traditional timeline:
9: Hair and makeup begins
1: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:30: Bride gets into dress; Groom puts on suit jacket/tie/boutonniere
3: First Look with Bride and Groom
3:15: Wedding Party finishes getting ready
3:30–4:30: Wedding party portraits
4:30: Photographers shoot ceremony/reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6:Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:30: Family formals
6–7:30: Cocktail Hour
6:30 –7:15: Newlywed photos
7:30: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:35: First dance
7:40: Toast(s)
7:45:Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off
The First Look Timeline:
budget time to do nothing but enjoy your day
give your family a time that's 15 minutes early
add 15 minute buffer times at the big events
communicate time details to hair/makeup artists
pick your ceremony time 1st then plan around it
make the most of your timeline by considering these tips
Timeline Tips
04.
Partner 1 with Mom
Partner 1 with Dad
Couple with Partner 1's Parents
Above group + Partner 1's Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Partner 1's Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Partner 1's Grandparents Set 2
Couple + both sets of Parents
Partner 2 with Mom
Partner 2 with Dad
Couple with Partner 2's Parents
Above group + Partner 2's Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Partner 2's Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Partner 2's Grandparents Set 1
sample family photo list:
Family photos, my fabulous couples, are the real MVPs, especially on the day your two awesome families become one big, happy crew! To make sure we capture every VIP, let's put together a killer list of must-have family portraits.
Now, here's a pro tip for you: bring a couple of printed copies of that list. It's like having a cheat sheet for your picture-perfect day. And, to keep things running as smooth as butter, assign someone awesome – a family member, a buddy, or your ride-or-die bridesmaid – to make sure every VIP is front and center for their moment in the spotlight. Let's make these family portraits a stress-free, organized masterpiece!
Family Photos
05.
any sentimental items
bouquet + boutonniere
vows + letters
invites + programs + menus
jewelry + accessories
rings
veil
shoes
suit or tux + tie/pocket square
dress + dress hanger
wedding details that will be photographed
Checklist
06.
Bring on the craziness! I'm all about embracing the unique dynamics of each family. Rest assured, I'm your ally in the chaos – if needed, I'll even be the gentle superhero referee. Your day, your rules.
06. What if my family is a bit on the wild side?
Great question! I'll send over a detailed questionnaire to gather essential information about your timeline, must-have shots, and any unique aspects of your wedding. This ensures I'm well-prepared to capture every meaningful moment without a hitch.
05. What information do you need from us before the wedding day to ensure everything runs smoothly?
Absolutely thrilled that you're keen on personalizing your shots! While I'm all about soaking in your inspiration, I steer clear of the copy-and-paste approach. Why? Because I'm dedicated to crafting a unique visual story just for you.
04. Can we request specific shots or styles that we've seen in your portfolio?
Candid amidst chaos? Consider it done! I'll spill the secrets on crafting a wedding day timeline that allows your photographer to snag those priceless, unplanned moments. It's about orchestrated chaos, beautifully captured.
03. How do we ensure our photographer captures those candid moments amidst the planned chaos?
Venue challenges, meet my photography superhero cape! I'll guide your photographer on navigating any venue hiccups like a pro. Your photos will be stunning, no matter the quirks your venue throws our way.
02. What if our wedding venue presents unique photography challenges?
Absolutely! I'll work closely with you to craft a customized timeline that not only captures all the essential moments but also allows for those candid, in-between gems. Let's make sure your day flows seamlessly, both in person and in photos.
01. Can you provide guidance to create a wedding day timeline that maximizes our photo opportunities?
Have a question? I've got an answer! And if you don't see your question here, please reach out via email: hello@1836photographie.com.
FAQs
08.