Planning your dream wedding can be an exhilarating adventure, but let’s face it – it can also be a bit overwhelming. Especially when you opt for an intimate wedding or elopement, the pressure to create an unforgettable experience can feel even more intense. As a seasoned PNW wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless love stories, each unique in its own way. Today, I want to share some invaluable tips to help you navigate the path to your perfect intimate wedding day. From leaving room in your timeline for spontaneity to embracing the enchantment of the golden hour, these insights will ensure that your special day overflows with joy, love, and cherished memories. So, let’s dive in together and embark on this incredible journey of creating a celebration that truly reflects your love story.
1. Leave Buffer Room in Your Timeline
Weddings are full of joyful surprises, and having some buffer time in your schedule allows for those spontaneous moments without feeling rushed! Whether it’s extra time for hugs, heartfelt conversations, or just a breath of fresh air, it helps the day flow smoothly and gives us room to capture every precious moment!
2. Keep Your Getting Ready Space Clean and Open
Having a cozy, clutter-free corner for your getting-ready photos is like a calm before the joyous storm. An open space ensures we can capture those sweet candid shots of you and your crew, full of excitement and anticipation as you prepare for your “I do’s.”
3. Group Photos Made Easy
Simplify group photos! Be sure to let everyone in your group shots know where and when to gather. Clear communication means we spend more time celebrating and less time tracking down Aunt Sally or Uncle Joe for that perfect family shot.
4. Share Your Photo Wishlist
Your wedding day is about you and your unique love story. Don’t hesitate to share your photo ideas and must-have shots with your photographer, AKA me, your PNW wedding photographer! Whether it’s a particular pose, a special location, or a creative concept, I’m here to bring your vision to life!
5. Have All Your Details Ready
When your photographer arrives at your wedding, it’s a great idea to have all your beautiful details ready beforehand – rings, vows, flowers, jewelry, shoes, and outfits! This way, we can capture these intimate elements while you’re getting ready, adding an extra layer of meaning to your photo collection!
6. Consider a First Look
First looks are pure magic! This intimate moment between you and your partner not only allows for stunning photo opportunities but also creates an opportunity for you both to connect before the ceremony. Plus, it frees up time to enjoy the company of your loved ones later in the day!
7. Unplug Your Ceremony
Your ceremony is a sacred occasion, and having an unplugged ceremony ensures that everyone is present and engaged, focusing on your love story as it unfolds. It also means no phones blocking the view of your radiant faces as you say “I do.”
8. Trust Your Vendors
Choosing vendors who understand your vision and make you feel at ease is essential. When you have confidence in your wedding team, you can relax and fully enjoy your special day, knowing everything is in good hands so make sure to do your research and invest in vendors you feel comfortable with handling all your wedding needs! You can even ask your photographer for recommendations for reputable vendors!
9. Embrace Golden Hour
Make sure to set aside a little time for dreamy portraits as the sun sets! The warm, glowing light creates an ethereal ambiance, and trust me – these photos will be utterly breathtaking!
10. Relax and Enjoy Every Moment
Above all, take a deep breath and savor every second of your wedding day! Things may not always go as planned, but that’s okay – it’s all part of your unique love story. You’ve put so much love and effort into planning this epic day, and you both deserve to relish every minute of it!
If you’re ready to capture your love story through the lens of my camera, let’s make it happen! I’d be honored to be your elopement and intimate wedding photographer, freezing those cherished moments in time for you to treasure forever! Book me as your PNW wedding photographer and reach out to me through my website and see more information on my services!
Vendors:
Venue: The Foundry at Oswego Pointe
Catering: The Pearl Catering
Flowers: Frankie’s flowers
Dj: Mo Njoku
Officiant: Valerie White Williams
Florist: Pollen in Love
Cake: 509 Bake House
Bartender/Liquid Catering: Shake Bartending
Food: Staci’s Catering
Chairs/Linen Rental: Central Party and Costume
DJ: Raise the Roof
Hair and Makeup: OffWhite
Wedding Favors: Yummy Lotus
Wedding Exit Transportation: HST Transportation
Guest Transportation: Seattle Charter Bus
Wedding Day Coordinator: My Perfect Wedding Assistant
Videographer: Daybreak Weddings
Venue: Brookstom Creek
Coordinator: Angie (Venue owner)
Catering: Steel Creek
DJ: Bobby Jamz
Venue: Liljebeck Farms
catering and bartending: April Craig
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