Wedding
Planning Guide
This guide is meant to help you navigate your wedding day with a little more ease and a lot more clarity.
Inside, you’ll find ideas to consider, helpful tips, and a better understanding of what it’s like to work with us.
Please read through as little or as much as you’d like. Our goal is simple. We want you to feel prepared, confident, and free to actually enjoy your day.
We can’t wait to document it all.
YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER
Your Photographer
Our photography style focuses less on posing and more on genuine interactions.
This approach tends to feel far more natural and inviting, especially for those who consider themselves “unphotogenic.”
By encouraging real moments between you and the people around you, we’re able to create images that feel authentic while also helping those moments become lasting memories of your day.
Ultimately, your photos and videos should reflect the day as it truly unfolds. Your wedding should never feel like it is being run by your photography and videography.
The Photographer’s Gear
Our photography gear is relatively standard. We carry a harness that allows us access to two cameras and a bag that carries additional lenses and a portable light.
Overall our photography focuses primarily on natural light. However we do use video lights that assist both photography and videography. Video lights are small lights that mount to stands (or the camera) that produce a steady (controllable) light.
I also have a flash just in case but usually gravitate towards video lights because they are less intrusive.
Your Videographer
If being photographed feels unfamiliar to some people, videography can feel even more so. Many people have never been in front of a professional video camera, and many have never attended a wedding with a dedicated video team.
Like our photography, our approach to videography is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. We aim to let your moments unfold naturally in both art forms. With video, we go even further by trying to stay out of the way so you and your guests are rarely focusing on our presence.
This approach also influences the equipment we use. We are very mindful of our footprint and do our best to remain as minimal as possible without compromising quality.
Videography Gear
For a majority of the wedding day your videographer will have one camera either hand held or on a gimbal (stabilizer).
For the other parts of the day they will be using multiple cameras on tripods to capture multiple angles.
Again, a majority of the time your team will be utilizing natural light, however we will have video lights with us just in case the environment requires additional lighting.
*In the sections below we go more into detail of what our set up looks likeat various points in the day*
YOUR WEDDING FILM
When we arrive to your wedding there are details of your day we specifically pay attention to. We look at the overall theme, the mood, and the words. Some weddings are exploding with sentiment, some are filled with revelry, and others are full of familial humor. We try to capture this feeling when building your wedding film.
When we begin cutting your film, we start with wedding audio. We listen through the vows, the letters, the ceremony, and the speeches, to see what shared words best summarize the feeling of your day.
When considering your wedding plans you may want to consider two things in regards to your film:
Writing your own vows
Or
Writing letters to one another
Neither are required but both can make the moment and your film more special.
If you decide to write letters to each other we will plan to record you reading them during your prep time at the beginning of the day.
You can either read the letter you wrote or read the letter written to you
Your Film’s Music
The music for your wedding film will be highly influenced by the feel and theme of your wedding day. We license music through an online company which gives us access to a large range of music. Our style focuses more on minimalistic music, this is to keep from distracting the viewer and helps the video age well.
ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
Engagement sessions are one of my favorite parts of the wedding planning process. Not only do you get beautiful, personalized photos to use for things like save-the-dates or wedding decor, but it also gives us a chance to connect a bit before the big day.
It’s a relaxed way for you to get comfortable in front of the camera, so when your wedding day comes around, everything feels natural and you know exactly what to expect.
If your package includes an engagement session this is the time to think about when and where you would want these done.
The “When” And “Where”
First to consider:
Do you need these photos for save-the-dates or wedding details or decor?
If so we will want to schedule your engagement photos at least two weeks before you need these ordered.
Second to consider:
Pick a time of year and location that means something to you.
Favorite spots, seasons, places that are nostalgic, or breathtaking locations can bring extra value to the images.
If you are restricted by time and your not a fan of the current seasonal options, you may want to consider indoor locations.
Indoor Locations
Indoor locations may seem like a less exciting option, but you may be surprised how fun this can be.
Let your imagination wander, if you met at a coffee shop, are both bibliophiles, had your first date at the State Theatre, or love to go wine tasting, lets make it happen.
If that feels a little too themed we can always do a indoor lifestyle session instead. These are done in your home or an AirBNB and focus on your life as a couple.
What Is Included In Your Session:
Engagement sessions can include multiple outfit changes in multiple locations (within 15 minutes of each other). You can bring your children or pets along but keep in mind the session is designed to feel relaxed and more like a date.
These sessions are usually scheduled in the late afternoon/evening for the best lighting and last about 1.5-2 hours.
Some Extra Things To Consider:
-Many brides use their engagement photos as a chance to do their hair and makeup trial. If you’re worried about spoiling the “surprise,” you can always soften or adjust the look before photos start.
-Your hands and ring will be featured in close-up shots, so it’s a good idea to have your engagement ring cleaned beforehand. Most jewelers offer this for free, or you can gently clean it at home with soapy water and a soft toothbrush.
-Also think about your nails ahead of time. Whether you go natural, paint them yourself, or get a professional manicure.
-If you plan to tan, whether spray or natural, try to do it 2–3 days before your session so the color has time to settle evenly.
What To Wear
When it comes to what to wear, the most important thing is that you feel like yourself. Choose outfits that you’re comfortable in and that reflect your style, while also complementing each other rather than matching exactly. Neutral tones, soft patterns, and textures tend to photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you. Avoid anything overly busy or distracting, and think about how your outfits will look in your chosen location.
When in doubt, bring a couple options, we’re always happy to help you decide what will photograph best.
VENDORS
I cannot express how important vendors are to your wedding day.
So I have compiled a list of some of the most applauded vendors in the Traverse City area.
I have not worked with every single one of these vendors but all of them have HIGH recommendations amongst the Northern Michigan wedding community.
This is not a paid list- I chose these vendors specifically for their quality of work, reputation, and professionalism.
Wedding Planner
On any given wedding day, there are a lot of moving parts and just as many vendors to coordinate. One of the most underrated vendors I’ve seen in my 16 years of photographing weddings is, without a doubt, the wedding planner. I’ve photographed plenty of weddings without one, and they all made it through the day.
That said, I’ve also documented many that could have gone much, much smoother.
In those cases, there were small but important gaps. No one was in charge of setting up final details, cueing the ceremony, managing the timeline, or keeping communication flowing between vendors. If I could go back to my own 2013 wedding on Empire Beach, I would seriously consider hiring a planner, even for an intimate elopement with just 20 people.
Even small weddings benefit from having someone whose sole focus is keeping everything running smoothly so you don’t have to. There’s a common misconception that wedding planners are only for ultra-luxury events, but that simply isn’t true. Many planners offer a range of packages, from full-service planning to month-of coordination, and can tailor their services to fit your needs and budget.
No matter the level of support, what you gain is access to their experience, tools, timelines, vendor connections, and a calm, steady presence on a day when everything matters. Whether you’re planning a backyard celebration or a full-scale venue wedding, a planner can be the difference between something that barely holds together and a day that feels truly stress-free.
WEDDING TIMELINE
No matter how formal or laid-back your wedding day is, having a clear timeline is essential.
It’s incredibly easy to get swept up in the emotion and excitement of the day, and that’s exactly what you should do!
A timeline ensures that all the pieces of the day stay in motion, without constant questions about what happens next.
A well-structured timeline includes not only the major moments, like the ceremony and first dance, but also the small details that often get overlooked, like time for touch-ups, travel between locations, or bustling your dress.
That said, it’s important to remember: your wedding day doesn’t happen without you.
If things run a little late (and they often do), your timeline should work for you, not the other way around. It’s a guide, not a drill sergeant. Building in buffer time and grouping activities together helps you stay flexible and stress-free when the inevitable hiccups happen.
A timeline gives your entire vendor team, bridal party, and family a shared plan so the day can unfold smoothly, leaving you free to soak in every moment.
Don’t have a wedding planner and not sure where to start?
Check below for example timelines with and without a first look
8 Hour Wedding Timeline
Without First Look
1:00pm Photographer/videographer arrives to bridal prep location
*Ideally, by this time hair and makeup would be happening
or wrapping up.
2:00pm Bride gets in her dress and bride and bridesmaid portraits
will be taken
2:30pm Photographers leave to ceremony location to meet with
groomsmen and take groom portraits
3:30pm Photographers/videographers head to ceremony spot and set up
4:00pm Ceremony
4:30pm Family portraits
5:00pm Bridal party & bride and groom portraits
5:30pm Introduction and first dance
6:00pm Toast and dinner
*We recommend planning your toasts before or after
dinner so that we can capture reaction shots without
your guests chewing.
7:00pm Sunset portraits (we will grab you when lighting is best)
7:30pm Parent dances and cake cutting
8:00pm Open dance
9:00pm Photographers / videographers depart
8 Hour Wedding Timeline
With First Look
1:00pm Photographer/videographer arrives to bridal prep location
*Ideally, by this time hair and makeup would be happening
or wrapping up.
2:00pm Bride gets in her dress and bride and bridesmaid portraits
will be taken
2:30 pm Everyone leaves for first look
3:00pm First look
3:30pm Photographers/videographers head to ceremony spot and set up
4:00pm Ceremony
4:30pm Family portraits
5:00pm Bridal party & bride and groom portraits
5:30pm Introduction and first dance
6:00pm Toast and dinner
*We recommend planning your toasts before or after dinner
so that we can capture reaction shots without your
guests chewing.
7:00pm Sunset portraits (we will grab you when lighting is best)
7:30pm Parent dances and cake cutting
8:00pm Open dance
9:00pm Photographers / videographers depart
WEDDING DAY PREP
The getting ready portion of your day sets the tone for everything that follows. It’s a time filled with anticipation, excitement, and some of the most meaningful candid moments.
We recommend choosing a space with plenty of natural light and keeping the area as tidy as possible. This helps create a calm environment for you, while also allowing us and your beauty team to move around easily.
Because this part of the day often involves a bit of “hurry up and wait,” we suggest building in detailed timestamps within your timeline to help keep things moving smoothly. Remember, you have full control over who is part of your prep time. Surround yourself with people who bring positive energy and are truly excited to be there.
Set the mood in a way that feels like you. Play your favorite music, light a candle, wear a cute outfit, enjoy food you love, and don’t forget to stay hydrated.
When we arrive, we aim to be as much of a fly on the wall as possible. There’s no need for anyone to stop what they’re doing or pose. We’re there to document the moments as they naturally unfold, with a few gentle prompts when needed. If there’s anything specific we need, we’ll guide you along the way.
To help us get started right away, please have your wedding details set aside for us. This allows us to begin photographing without interrupting your flow.
If possible, plan for hair and makeup to be finished by the time we arrive, or close to it. This ensures we can focus on capturing meaningful moments and gives us time for those final touches and reactions.
WEDDING DETAILS
Good ‘ol Google says that the average amount of time for planning a wedding is 12-18 months. That is an entire year of your life planning every tiny detail.
We want to document it all. Especially the ones that reflect your love story in a personal way.
Whether it’s the delicate lace on your bouquet or the heirloom piece of jewelry, every element plays a part in telling your story.
When we arrive, we typically spend about 15-30 minutes styling and documenting these special pieces.
A well-lit, tidy space with natural light will be chosen in the moment. We highly suggest to have all of these items collected and ready in one spot when we arrive. We will document your smaller items first and then afterward move on to your dress. We will document your dress within the room and possibly take it outside the space if you are comfortable.
Below is a copy of the detail list we provide in your questionnaire. This list includes items you’d typically expect but it also includes some items you may not have considered to include.
Bride Checklist
O Dress
O A Nice Dress Hanger
O All Of The Rings
O Shoes
O Veil
O Bouquet
O Hair pieces
O Jewelry
O Invitations (2 sets with envelopes
and save-the-dates)
O Any other paper stationary
(Menus, program cards, etc)
O Vow Books
O Any other sentimental items
O Extra florals from your florist
Groom Checklist
O Suit
O Shoes
O Special Socks
O Cuff Links
O Tie / Bow Tie
O Pocket Square
O Boutonnière
O Vows Book
O Rings
O Other Special Items
Rings
If possible, I like to get a few close-ups of your engagement ring.
For the best sparkle, it’s best to have it cleaned before your session.
If a professional cleaning isn’t possible, you can soak it at home in warm water with a little dish soap, then gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush.
IN CASE OF RAIN
Rainy days never seem ideal, but they truly can be magical!
In Northern Michigan it is extremely rare for rain to stick around for an entire day. It usually comes in spirts and can be possible to work around the bursts.
If you don’t have a wedding planner the best first step is to contact your venue.
Almost all venues have a rain plan, but if you don’t like the backup plan you could always have the option of purchasing umbrellas for your guests in case the rain starts during the ceremony.
We also suggest purchasing two clear umbrellas just for the two of you. These feel intentional and look great during your portraits.
Your photographer and videographer both have water resistant gear that allows us to continue capturing your day.
In addition we have protective gear specific for long exposure to the rain in case you choose to continue with an outdoor event.
THE FIRST LOOK
That first moment you see each other on your wedding day is absolute magic, and truly priceless.
When planning your timeline, it’s worth considering the option of a first look.
Throughout your wedding day, you’ll have very few quiet moments alone together. A first look gives you the rare chance to pause, breathe, and just be with one another before the whirlwind begins.
Many couples use this time to read personal letters, share a quiet moment, pray, or simply hold each other close. In a day packed with details and to-do lists, this moment can be grounding. It allows the nerves to melt away and reminding you what it’s all really about.
Couples often say their first look helped them feel more connected, calm, and present for the rest of the day.
Once the ceremony starts, everything tends to move quickly. A first look gives you a head start on soaking it all in.
There’s also a practical side:
A first look is typically scheduled during the slower part of the day, often overlapping with your “getting-ready” window.
Afterward, you can roll right into couple portraits, bridal party photos, or even family shots. This not only eases your post-ceremony schedule but also frees up more time to enjoy your cocktail hour or simply rest.
During your first look your photographer and videographer will work together to pick a spot that works well.
Your photographer will have two cameras capturing your grooms reaction.
Your videographer will have two camera set up to record both reactions.
✓ Additional Benefits
✓ Hair, makeup, and outfits are at their absolute freshest
✓ You have time to touch up after emotional moments
✓ More flexibility to use different photo locations before the ceremony
✓ Better control over your timeline in case of weather changes
✓ Less pressure on your post-ceremony portrait time
If you still want a quiet, meaningful moment together but want your first view at the alter- consider a blindfolded first touch or corner meeting.
It’s a beautiful way to calm the nerves and share a few private words without actually seeing each other.
Parent First Look
As I said before, a First Look is a great opportunity to have a moment alone with one another, and that goes for parents as well.
What can easily take a simple 5 minutes will allow you to share a special moment before heading down the aisle.
If you decide to have a first look with a parent, make sure to add this to your timeline.
Even though it only takes a few minutes, it helps your parents/family members to know when they need to be dressed and where to be.
CEREMONY
Your ceremony is the heart of your wedding day, and the best thing you can do is stay present and truly take it all in. We recommend having an unplugged ceremony so your guests can be fully engaged and your photos remain free of distractions. As you walk down the aisle, take your time, soak in the moment, and don’t be afraid to look around. When you reach the altar, pause for a moment together before the ceremony begins. Small, natural interactions like holding hands and staying close create beautiful, meaningful images. When it’s time for your first kiss, go for a slow, intentional moment rather than a quick peck, and as you walk back down the aisle, celebrate, smile, and enjoy those first moments together as newlyweds.
Bonus points if you pause for a second kiss (even a dip) at the end of the aisle.
During your Ceremony photographers will use harnesses with two cameras and that is it.
We also almost never use artificial lighting during the ceremony unless necessary.
To start the ceremony Photographer #1 will be standing at the front of the aisle (off to the side) so we can capture the processional and the grooms reaction (as well as family reactions).
If you booked a second photographer – #2 will be towards the end of the aisle getting the back view.
Once the processional is finished the #1 will move outward towards the side of the room and head to the back of the ceremony.
From there we float around getting reactions and key moments of the ceremony.
When the ceremony is finished we will be standing half way down the center aisle to get the kiss and the recessional. We will be walking backwards as you two exit and then let you pass as we capture the rest of your recessional.
During the ceremony there will be 3-4 cameras running.
3 will be set up on tripods at various angles of your ceremony.
We aim to have these set up prior to your guests arrival so they become comfortable with them before the ceremony. The videographer will be circulating between these cameras throughout the ceremony.
When the bridal party arrives to the ceremony location we will have two mics on the groom, two on the officiant, and one on the hand held microphone. We do not have a bridal mic to keep from messing with the gown and the other microphones pick up her words.
COCKTAIL HOUR
Cocktail hour is the perfect bridge between your ceremony and reception, giving your guests time to relax, mingle, and settle into the celebration while we capture some of your most meaningful portraits.
While it naturally fills with conversation and drinks, adding a few intentional touches can elevate the experience even more. Consider offering a signature cocktail (or two) that reflects your personalities, incorporating a fun food station like a charcuterie table, a photo booth vendor, or including light activities such as lawn games, a live musician, or a guestbook alternative.
These small details not only keep your guests engaged, but also help the time feel seamless and enjoyable while you’re away for photos.
Couples portraits and family formals typically coincide with cocktail hour, which means your videographers and photographers are usually with you documenting those moments. If there are special events or details planned for cocktail hour please let us know in advance so we can do our best to capture them.
If this time of your wedding is very important for you to have documented you may want to consider booking an additional photographer with us so there will be someone dedicated to the in-between moments.
COUPLES PORTRAITS
When it comes to couples portraits, this is your time to slow down and actually be together on your wedding day.
Whether this is before your ceremony during a first look or after family portraits, we’ll step away from the noise for you to soak it all in.
I’ll gently guide you with prompts and movement so nothing ever feels stiff or overly posed, while still making sure you look your absolute best.
Some of the most meaningful images come from these moments, when you’re able to be fully present with each other.
Trust the process, lean into each other, and don’t worry about being perfect. That’s never the goal.
During this time your photographer and videographer will be with you.
Be sure to let us know if there are specific other activities going on that you want documented during your portraits and we will do our best to capture them.
Portraits On-Location
Whether you choose to do a first look or wait until after the ceremony to take your portraits together, you should also consider whether you want to travel to a different location for extra pictures.
If there is a spot in particular you would like pictures at- make sure to include travel time in your timeline.
Also consider if you want to include your bridal party in this excursion or just the two of you.
Golden Hour Portraits
About an hour before sunset, we will step away from the celebration for a few extra portraits. This takes about 5-10 minutes.
We love using this time to give you both a chance to slow down, take a breath, and soak in everything you’ve experienced throughout the day.
By this point, you will feel completely comfortable with our prompts, so this time together is usually quick and easy.
It also happens to be when the light is at its most beautiful, often creating some of the most stunning images and video.
FAMILY FORMALS
Family formals are the part of the day where my team and I take the lead.
A lot of wedding day stress can come from gathering and organizing people, which can make family portraits feel overwhelming. There’s often a mix of calling out names, searching for relatives, and trying to keep things moving. Because of that, we have carefully refined our process to keep this time efficient, organized, and even enjoyable.
In your questionnaire we will have you list a “family informant” this is your childhood best friend, sister, or best man that knows a majority of the people on the formal list. They will help us organize the group and have the next groupings ready “on deck” to switch out. Making this process 10x faster.
Family formals are typically scheduled during two parts of the day: before the ceremony (if you are having a first look) and immediately after the ceremony. It is completely up to you which you would prefer, however we usually suggest after the ceremony because all of the family is in one spot. This makes it easier to gather everyone needed and the officiant can even announce for family members to stay behind.
We work from a streamlined list of immediate family members to keep things moving and ensure all the essential people are included. In your questionnaire, you will have the chance to review this list and add any important variations so we can come fully prepared.
That said, these are not the only family photos you can have. We encourage you to grab us at any point for additional portraits. These are your photos, and we are here to capture whatever moments matter most to you!
During this time your photographer will be leading the group and your videographer will be either documenting cocktail hour, working on your same-day-edit, or setting up for the reception
Basic Family Formal List
O Bride + Groom + Bride’s Grandparents
O Bride + Groom + Bride’s Immediate Family + Grandparents
O Bride + Groom + Bride’s Immediate Family
O Bride + Groom + Bride’s Siblings
O Bride + Groom + Bride’s Parents
O Bride + Mother Of Bride
O Bride + Father Of Bride
O Bride + Groom + Both Immediate Families
O Bride + Groom + Groom’s Grandparents
O Bride + Groom + Groom’s Immediate Family + Grandparents
O Bride + Groom + Groom’s Immediate Family
O Bride + Groom + Groom’s Siblings
O Bride + Groom + Groom’s Parents
O Groom + Mother Of Groom
O Groom + Father Of Groom
RECEPTION
Your reception makes up a large portion of your wedding day, and because it comes at the end, it’s often where timelines can start to fall behind. Our biggest piece of advice is to front-load your reception events. This allows you to take care of all the formal moments early on so you can relax and fully enjoy the rest of your evening.
It also benefits your guests, giving them the chance to experience all the important moments while still having the flexibility to head out when they’re ready, or stay and enjoy the party.
We also recommend avoiding scheduling toasts and speeches during dinner. While it can save time, it often doesn’t create the most flattering images or the best overall experience for you or your guests.
The same gear is used as with the ceremony. We will have a video lights ready for entrances, speeches, and dancing and a mounted flash ready for candids.
Your videographer will have two cameras set up during your entrances on tripods. Then they will have two cameras set up during your speeches along with a mic on the microphone and possibly backup mics on the speakers depending on the number of speeches and the timeline.
Then during the formal dances there will be two cameras on tripods set up again.
During the dancing we will have one camera on a stabilizer and then we will float around with the guests as they dance.
Before dancing starts we will have two lights set up on two corners of the dance floor. They will act as a steady light to illuminate some of the dancers but not overpower the DJs lights.
*None of our lights or audio gear should interfere with the DJ/Sound Equipment*
EXTRAS
Same-Day Edit
A same-day edit is a short highlight film created and shown on your wedding day, often during your reception.
It’s a beautiful way to relive the moments that have already unfolded, from getting ready through your ceremony, while celebrating with your family and friends.
Our team carefully captures and edits these moments in real time, crafting a meaningful, emotional film that tells the beginning of your story.
It’s not only a special experience for you, but also an unforgettable moment for your guests to witness.
If you choose to add this onto your wedding package, you will need to provide a screen, projector, or TV with the appropriate connections at your venue so the film can be played during your reception.
Same-Day Edit $800
Additional Coverage
If anything changes with your wedding plans you have the option of adding additional coverage to your wedding day. Whether it be weeks before or the day before communicate with us as soon as you can and we will do our best to accommodate
Hourly additional coverage $500 per person
Wedding Albums
Your wedding album is a timeless keepsake of your day.
We create high-quality, lay-flat albums with seamless spreads and luxurious cover options, carefully designed to tell your story. This is more than photos- it’s an heirloom you’ll treasure for years to come.
A 12×12 wedding album starts at $500
Bridal Boudoir Sessions
These sessions are designed to be fun, and confidence-boosting. We focus on creating a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere where you feel beautiful in your own skin.
From styling and posing guidance to lighting and mood, every detail is crafted to highlight your unique personality and confidence. Boudoir is about capturing intimate and tasteful images that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Boudoir sessions $300
Boudoir Books $100
Additional Photographer & Videographer
You can add an additional photographer and/or videographer up until 1 month before your wedding day.
The sooner you book them the more time we have to secure one of our most trusted team members.
Additional Photographer: $400
Additional Videographer: $400
DELIVERY
After your wedding day, we’ll send over a sneak peek of your images within 48 hours so you can relive those first moments right away. If your package includes videography, you can expect a short video preview within about two weeks.
Every image and film is carefully hand edited to ensure everything feels cohesive and true to your day. Your full gallery and films will be delivered within 6–8 weeks, depending on your package, through a private online gallery. Your gallery will remain available for at least one year, giving you plenty of time to download, share, and enjoy everything.
Print Release
Every wedding package includes a print release, giving you the freedom to print your high-resolution images wherever you’d like for personal use. You’ll find a copy of your print release included right in your online gallery along with your images.
