I love weddings. I loved dreaming about what my wedding would be like one day, I loved everything about my actual wedding, and I love being a part of that special day for the couples we photograph. I’m not an expert at all things wedding, but one thing I think I do have some good insight into is how to really ENJOY your wedding day, and how to get photos that you’ll love to look at for years!
This past weekend I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph the wedding of a childhood friend. We had lost touch for years, but were reconnected through this wonderful day in her life. Not only was Beth a stunning bride, but she really enjoyed her wedding day — both of which allowed us to get great photos.
So thanks to Beth and Robin, and their wonderful wedding at the Union Club in downtown Cleveland, I can illustrate some of my favorite wedding day tips…
Tip #1: Get ready with good light
Having ample window light in the room where you get ready will not only allow your hair/makeup people see what their doing, but it will allow us to get the best shots. Being able to capture all the parts of your day starts with the transformation from girl to bride… make sure you look your best with a spacious and well-lit environment.
Tip #2: Eat!!
While the butterflies are fluttering, and the day is rushing by, it’s easy to forget to fuel your system. Eating and staying hydrated throughout the day will keep your energy level up so you can make the most of your wedding day (and night!) — but it will also give you the color in your cheeks that will make your photos stunning.
Tip #3: Tear-proof Eyeliner
A makeup artist once gave me the best tip to keep your eyeliner looking great throughout the tears that will surely flow throughout the day… While many people use gel eyeliner, it’s not actually waterproof. So, here’s the magic trick: Take waterproof mascara, smudge it on the back of your hand, and using an eyeliner brush apply your new waterproof eyeliner! Voila!
Tip #4: Prep your shoes
Girls and their shoes… I get it. I had blue sparkly shoes for my wedding! So after your exhaustive search for the perfect accessory, make sure you get them ready for the big day. Wearing your shoes around your house a few weeks before your wedding is good for breaking them in (and avoiding wedding day blisters), but don’t forget about the bottoms! Make sure to scuff the bottoms of the shoes on your driveway so you don’t slip and fall when you’re walking towards your groom! Don’t worry, a scuffed sole won’t hurt pictures.
Tip #5: Don’t miss your own wedding
So many details, so much can go wrong… who cares?!? Nobody will remember if the chicken is a little dry. Nobody will notice if you have a hair out of place. If you get too hung up on those tiny details, you’ll miss the big picture — YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED!! Stress all you want in the months and days leading up to your wedding, but as that day rolls around, throw your hands in the air, and have an “it is what it is” attitude. The stress isn’t worth it — if you focus on that stuff, you’ll only hurt your wedding day experience. So, let it go, and have fun!!
Stay tuned for more tips… coming soon!
