engagement session tips, timeline guidance, vendor recommendations & more!
WEDDING
GUIDE
REAGAN ANNE PHOTO
WElcome
I am so excited to be working with you and can't wait to get to know you better over the next several months! I know photography is one of the larger investments you're making for your wedding day and I am so honored you chose to work with me!
Even if you're working with a wedding planner or you're planning a simple wedding, there are likely still a lot of moving pieces left leading up to your big day.
Having photographed weddings for over 4 years, I tend to get asked the same things over and over again, so I thought it would be beneficial to put together a guide that walks you through everything from timelines to engagement sessions and inclement weather.
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
Thank you again for choosing to work with me and please don't hesitate to let me know if I can offer any additional guidance throughout the wedding planning process!
xoxo, reagan
01. WELCOME
02. ENGAGEMENT
03. VENDORS
04. BRIDAL PORTRAITS
05. FIRST LOOKS
06. TIMELINES
07. RAIN TIPS
08. DETAILS
09. FAMILY FORMALS
10. GO UNPLUGGED
11. EXTRA TIPS
12. ALBUMS
planning your
engagement
session
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons -- which is why I include one in every single collection I offer! Not only do they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera, they also give you the opportunity to showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you.
It takes time for most couples to warm up to being photographed. It's important to connect with your photographer because you will be spending quite a bit of time with them on your most special day. By doing engagement photos, you get a chance to see me in action and understand how I pose. Timelines can be pretty tight on wedding days and 30 minutes may be all we have for portraits - which is why I've found that wedding day portraits turn out so much better when couples do engagement sessions with me ahead of time. Second, you can showcase your love story in a more casual setting (and even include pets!)
// WHY YOU SHOULD
Engagement sessions can take place anywhere from immediately following a proposal to just a few days before the wedding. I've found that there isn't a "good" or "bad" time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on a particular vibe a couple has in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on schedules. If you are planning to use photos on your save-the-dates, we can take this timing into consideration as well.
// WHEN TO SCHEDULE
I've created an entire guide dedicated to planning and preparing for your engagement session with outfit tips, location ideas, inspiration and more!
rapengagements.reaganannephoto.com
VENDORS
Over the years, I've learned the important role quality vendors play in creating a stress-free wedding day. I've worked with many of the vendors below and can't recommend them enough! This is not a paid list - I chose these vendors, in no particular order, for both the quality of their work as well as their professionalism on the actual wedding day.
WHO WILL MAKE YOUR DAY INCREDIBLE
FLORAL DESIGNERS
Peyton Rae Creative
Wedfully Yours
Have & Hold Studio
VIDEOGRAPHY
AK Photo & Film
Mint Lotus Films
Rosemary Films
CATERING & APPS
It's Poppin' Party Co
DJ & BANDS
DJ Connection
HAIR & MAKEUP
Glam by Ash
2 Girls 1 Brush Beauty
Makeup by Makiyah
RENTALS
Simply Chic Rentals
Borrowed Treasures Events
CONTENT CREATORS
Created By Kirby
Ever After by Yetzy
COORDINATORS
Evermore Weddings & Events
Abounding Love Events
BRIDAL PORTRAITS
There is a big difference between looking at yourself in the mirror at a hair and makeup trial and actually seeing how that hair holds up in the elements and how that makeup photographs. When it comes to being confident in your choices on your wedding day, photos are invaluable!
If you're considering a Bridal Portrait Session or booked my Ultimate Collection, I recommend a full trial run of hair, nails, makeup and your bouquet. I typically spend around an hour shooting at bridal sessions and it's nice to have something to hold to make your hands feel a little less awkward!
When it comes to choosing a location for your bridal portrait session, I recommend using locations that are well manicured, clean, and have great variety of indoor and outdoor locations.
GORGEOUS PHOTOS + PRACTICE RUN FOR THE BIG DAY
Wedding venues are usually a wonderful place to start - especially historic homes and resorts that have well manicured areas. We want to keep your dress as clean as possible and still get a lot of amazing images inside and outside.
When it comes to selecting a date for your bridal portrait session, another great thing to keep in mind is the weather. In order to avoid being too hot during the summer months or too cold during the winter months, I highly recommend Spring and Fall. However, I'll shoot anything and anywhere there's great light!
Many venues charge a fee for portrait sessions. Although inconvenient, the fee is often worth it in order to have use of their getting ready room and other venue services. We typically have to work with the venues on times, but I love to shoot bridal portraits in the afternoon as late as we can to get that softer afternoon light. However, if your venue has strict hours, I am happy to work with their allotted times.
Make sure to bring your jewelry, your veil, and your shoes to your bridal portrait session!
SESSION CHECKLIST
Dress
Undergarments
Shoes
Veil
Bouquet
Ring
Hair pieces
Jewelry
First looks
That moment the Bride and Groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day is magical. And this is true whether the couple chooses to wait until the bride walks down the aisle or choose to do a "first look" prior to the ceremony.
First looks - a private moment couples choose to spend together prior to the wedding ceremony - have become more popular over the last few years. About half of my couples over the last couple of years chose to do a first look.
While I consider myself someone who values tradition, there are definitely a few good reasons to consider a first look. Here are 3 reasons to consider adding a first look to your special day:
IF YOU'RE WONDERING WHETHER A FIRST LOOK IS RIGHT FOR YOU, STOP HERE
Once the ceremony begins, the day takes off quickly. A first look is an opportunity to enjoy some quiet time alone, enjoy each other's company, and reflect on all this day means before your day takes off.
Wedding days can be a whirlwind and they tend to fly by. There's much to do, and a lot of people to see and to catch up with. I always encourage my couples to take a few minutes every so often during their wedding to stop and soak in everything that's happening.
01
A FIRST LOOK CUTS THROUGH THE CHAOS OF THE DAY
02
When there is no first look, the majority of the photos have to be taken after the ceremony. Family photos are generally done as soon as the ceremony ends because it's the easiest time to round everyone up. Next up is full bridal party, and then bride and groom portraits. This generally runs into cocktail hour.
A first look opens up time prior to the ceremony for full bridal party photos and, sometimes, for a few bride and groom portraits (although we prefer to do bride and groom portraits at sunset). This allows the couple to get the most out of cocktail hour, which makes the rest of the evening feel less rushed.
IT MAKES MORE TIME FOR PHOTOS WITHOUT SACRIFICING COCKTAIL HOUR
If you're expecting poor weather on your wedding day, it might be best to plan on a first look because it gives you more options for photos. If it's pouring rain after the ceremony, you'll be thankful you had photos done in advance.
This one is also for all you cryers out there. If you know the tears are going to fly the first time you see your other half the day of your wedding, a first look will give you time to freshen up before the ceremony.
First look or not, the first time you see each other on your wedding day will be special. And all of my couples who chose to do a first look can tell you the anticipation of walking down the aisle is unaffected by having already seen their person beforehand.
03
AVOID POSSIBLE BAD WEATHER AND/OR HAVE TIME TO FRESHEN-UP AFTER THE FIRST LOOK
FIRST LOOK
WEDDING DAY
Whether you choose to do a first look or the traditional "no see before the ceremony" I will work with you on making sure you have the best timeline and plan for images.
If you are choosing to go traditional, you'll need two different sets of photo times: images taken before the ceremony and images taken after the ceremony.
You'll need to plan for about 30-45 minutes of pre-ceremony bridal photos (bridesmaids and bridal portraits) and about 30-45 minutes of pre-ceremony groom photos (groomsmen and groom's portraits) at separate times. You'll also need 15 minutes of combined bridal party portraits, 20 minutes of family portraits, and at least 30-45 minutes of couple's portraits after the ceremony if you're not doing any portraits together until after the ceremony.
BUILDING THE PERFECT
timeline
tips for a seamless wedding day timeline
If you are doing a first look, photos can be done all at one time, taking an average total of 1.5 to 2 hours pre-ceremony (although we also LOVE grabbing just the two of you for a few additional bride and groom photos at sunset!).
If you choose a traditional aisle reveal, all I ask is that you keep your ceremony time in mind when planning your wedding - and I am always happy to help you nail down the timing!
If you're planning a sunset ceremony or an evening ceremony, it's best to do all photos before the wedding, as daylight is crucial to getting amazing portraits for your families, bridal party and your couples portraits. Making sure we have enough time while the sun is up is a great way to make the traditional ceremony work.
rain Tips
If the forecast is calling for rain, fear not because rainy days can still be beautiful! If rain is in the forecast, I recommend ordering a few clear umbrellas on Amazon. It also might be good to re-evaluate portrait locations to make sure we can still shoot in natural light - even if it means heading offsite.
If you don't own a pair of cute rain boots, now may be a great time to order a pair - even if you're just wearing them in between shooting locations.
If you're not working with a planner, it might also be a good idea to check in with your entire vendor team to make sure they're aware of the weather. Hair and makeup may need to be tweaked to withstand humidity and if your wedding is outdoors, DJs and bands may need to take extra precaution to protect their gear. A quality rental team can also minimize the amount of mud at outdoor events.
While I can't guarantee that rain on your wedding day is good luck, we can put a plan in place to ensure a beautiful day and beautiful images.
Rainy day weddings may require a little more flexibility and creativity, but there isn't any reason why they can't be equally as beautiful and joyful as sunny weddings!
WEDDING DAY
I love capturing all the little details you've carefully chosen to be a part of your wedding day! Once I arrive at your wedding, I need about 45 minutes to capture and style details. I recommend choosing a getting ready location filled with natural light and, if possible, please keep the space free from trash and clutter.
It would be wonderful if you could put all of your rings, jewelry, shoes, veil, purse, perfume, invitations and other keepsakes together in one spot for me. Please unwrap your dress but don't worry about styling it - we'll hang it in a beautiful spot!
details
BRIDAL DETAILS CHECKLIST
Dress
Dress Hanger (a pretty one!)
Rings (both engagement and wedding bands)
Shoes
Veil
Perfume
Bouquet or loose florals
Hair Pieces
Jewelry (earrings, bracelets, necklace, etc.!)
Invitation Suite (2 full sets with envelopes + stamps)
Any other paper stationary you may have like program cards or menus
Vow Book
Any other sentimental keepsakes you would like to include, such as family heirlooms
print this checklist!
GROOM DETAILS CHECKLIST
His Shoes
Socks (if they're special!)
Rings
Cuff Links
Tie or Bow Tie
Pocket Square
Boutonniere
Cologne
Vow Book
Watch
Anything else he'll have that is special or sentimental
print this checklist!
THE RINGS
I always try to take detailed shots of the rings. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself.
To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
FAMILY
FORMALS
YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY, DRESSED UP AND TOGETHER
For family portraits, we'll place you in the center of a large group photo with all of your grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, godparents, etc. And then we'll remove the extended family so it's just grandparents, parents and siblings.
We'll keep removing family members and switch a few closer family members in and out so we get photos of you and your parents, you and your siblings, some with the groom and your family, etc. Then we'll repeat the process with your spouse's family. The whole thing will go quicker and smoother if you let family know how the portrait process will work ahead of time.
Closer to wedding day, I'll have you send me a list of specific groupings, special situations (such as divorce or handicapped family members & more), but if you want to start brainstorming photos in the meantime, you'll find a typical list below.
FAMILY FORMALS CHECKLIST
Bride + Groom + Bride's Extended Family
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Siblings + Grandparents
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Siblings
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents
Bride + Groom + Bride's Siblings
Bride + Mom
Bride + Dad
Bride + Groom + Groom's Extended Family
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Siblings + Grandparents
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Siblings
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents
Bride + Groom + Groom's Siblings
Groom + Mom
Groom + Dad
print + adjust this checklist!
*Please note that this list is just a starting point and that I am happy to take any requested family portraits as long as time allows!
CONSIDER
UNPLUGGING
If you've been to a wedding recently, you may have seen a sign from the happy couple or an announcement from the officiant asking for their guests to remain "unplugged" during the ceremony.
And while it might seem like a strange request to ask guests to put down their phones, there's a pretty good reason for it! You made a big investment in photography (and possibly videography) and I'm sure one of the last things you want on your wedding day is for photos of your ceremony to be filled with obtrusive iPhones, iPads and relatives standing in the aisle with their own cameras. In order to help us do the best possible job capturing your wedding, I recommend asking guests to unplug and just be present during the ceremony.
ADDITIONAL
tips
If you're getting married in the summer months, a "not-so-heavy" snack or lunch time before portraits is always a good idea for you and your bridal party to avoid hungry bellies and passing out!
01
DON'T FORGET THE SNACKS
If it's going to be hot, a cooler of cold waters and frozen washcloths can help keep a wedding party cool - especially if your men are wearing lots of layers.
PREP FOR THE HEAT
02
Make sure and have your bouquet delivered in time to make an appearance for the detail shots and for your first look. Often they are delivered in water and need to be dried off before use. Having towels handy can help.
03
EXTRA FLORALS
If you're planning on having a first look with your bridal party or parent, they often feel more comfortable being fully dressed in their wedding attire.
FIRST LOOKS FOR PARENTS
If your reception is at a separate venue, add some "fluff time" so that we can run over to the venue to capture it while it's still "untouched" by guests.
05
FLUFF TIME
04
I always recommend the bride go into hiding 30 minutes before the ceremony at the absolute latest. Guests typically arrive early to weddings.
HIDE THE BRIDE
Family portraits go smoother when both sides of the family have a chance to have their input on what portraits they'd like before the wedding. If you supply me with a list ahead of time, we can go over it and make sure we shoot things in an order that is efficient and won't leave anyone out.
06
07
MAKE A LIST
During cocktail hour and the reception, I'll always be nearby. Anytime you'd like a photo with someone, grab our attention. I love being your personal paparzzi!
08
PHOTO ANYONE?
We'd love to help you plan your timeline. We can schedule a time to sit down together either in person or via FaceTime to go through every part of the day and make sure it fits! I typically schedule these meetings around a month out from your big day - but if you need help determining the best ceremony time before then, don't hesitate to email or call!
09
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
HANDCRAFTED ALBUMS
I'm a big believer that images aren't meant to solely exist in a digital space. One day, most likely, Instagram will be gone, your phone will be replaced and images that you can physically hold in your hand will be the best way to remember those precious memories we captured.
Think about this fact: twenty years ago, if I had delivered you digital images, they would have been on a floppy disk. With the fast updates to technology, you would have no way to access those images today. Even the online galleries I deliver will eventually fade away.
One of the best ways to make your wedding memories last is by ordering an album. These high quality professionally designed albums come in a variety of linen and leather colors. These aren't the same albums your parents' wedding photos came in. They're modern, lay perfectly flat and look incredible on a coffee table.
THE PERFECT WAY TO REMEMBER YOUR WEDDING DAY
