As your wedding day approaches, you think of all the countless hours you have put into planning every single detail. The centerpieces, florals, color pallet, invitations, and so. much. more. Planning consumes every ounce of your brain (trust me, I know!!) and it can feel literally impossible to cram one more thing into it. However, as a wedding photographer, I want to encourage you to think of ONE last thing that will help wrap a beautiful bow around your final wedding gallery.
Yes, bridal portraits and couples images are the heart of your gallery. But when scrolling through your images, my desire is that they take you back to that day and every image brings an overwhelming amount of nostalgia. The best way to do this is the capture as many details as possible. I encourage all of my BP brides to put together what I call a “details box” before the big day. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, in fact many of my brides put it all in their shoe box or a bag of some sort. Here are my top 6 MUST haves for your wedding “details box”:
SHOES - Whether you have dainty kitten heels, classic stilettos, or Kate Spade Keds, this is a detail that really brings your bridal look together.
THE RINGS - I repeat, do not forget the rings!! I know that many times the groom will have these, but it is important that you keep them for this portion of the day. Your photographer will be sure the deliver the rings to the groom if needed.
INVITATION SUITE - This is the heart and soul of detail images. When putting your invitation suite together, be sure to have an extra set aside for your wedding day. This will include the invitation, invitation envelope, RSVP, RSVP envelope, any other inserts that are mailed to guests (directions, details, etc.). **Quick Tip...if you have an addressed envelope, that is always an extra special touch.
PERFUME - What scent will you wear when you walk down the aisle towards your future husband? Let’s make sure to photograph it!
JEWELRY - Necklace, earrings, bracelets, etc. Anything that you plan to wear can always be added to your detail images.
SOMETHING SPECIAL - Are you carrying a family heirloom? (Aunt Betty’s silver broach, your Dad’s handkerchief, or anything that is super special to you and your story.)
*These next two things don’t need to be in your details box (obviously...they are way too big) but it is super helpful if you have these easily accessible for the photographer during this time.
Florals - It is always nice to add some of your flowers to these images. Nothing major, just a bridesmaid bouquet or near by centerpiece that the photographer can use.
WEDDING DRESS, VIEL, and a BRIDESMAID's DRESS - These are often used as a backdrop to detail shots, and pictures will be taken of these individually as well.
I hope this can be used an a helpful and stress-free resource to capture every detail of the best day of your life.
