session details, tips, and answers

wedding day

I know there are countless things that go into a wedding day and make it completely unique. I also know that the planning and even your wedding day can come with a lot of stress. But it doesn't have to be that way!

My goal is to not only be your photographer but an extra hand to help you through this Experience.

Peruse this page and find tips – from planning to wedding day action items – that will reduce your stress and ultimately elevate your wedding day photos.

the experience

01.

the first look timeline ⟶

the traditional timeline ⟶

Planning a wedding day timeline is highly encouraged. It keeps your vendors in-line and adds a layer of time-security to your day.

As we approach your wedding day, I will reach out via email to discuss your wedding day timeline to ensure that I understand your priorities.

Whether you're wanting to do a first look or go the traditional route, I've gathered two sample timelines to guide your planning:

timeline

02.

9: Hair and makeup begins
2: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:45: Get dressed
3:30: Photos of Bride and Bridesmaids
4: Photos of Groom + Groomsmen
4:30: Photographers take ceremony and reception details 
5:30: Ceremony
6: Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:20: Family formals
6:20–6:35: Entire wedding party
6:35–6:55: Newlywed photos
7:00: Bride and Groom introduced to reception
7:05: First dance
7:15: Father/Daughter dance; Mother/Son dance
7:30: Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Toasts
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off

the traditional timeline:

9: Hair and makeup begins
2: Detail photos, finishing touches of getting ready
2:45: Get dressed
3:05: First Look with couple
3:15: Couples' portraits
3:30–4:00: Wedding party portraits
4:00-4:30: Family photos
4:30: Photographers shoot ceremony/reception details
5:30: Ceremony
6:Ceremony ends and officiant announces family to stick around for photos
6–6:10: Any remaining family formals
6:10-6:30: Any remaining couples pics
6:30 –7:00: Cocktail mingling
7:00: Couple introduced to reception
7:05: First dance
7:15: Father/Daughter dance(s); Mother/Son dance(s)
7:30: Dinner served
8:30: Cake cutting
8:35: Toasts
8:45: Open dance floor
10: Send-off

the first look timeline:

BUDGET TIME TO DO NOTHING BUT ENJOY YOUR DAY

give your family a time that's 15-minutes early

add 15-minute buffer times at the big events

communicate time details to hair/makeup artists

pick your ceremony time 1st then plan around it

make the most of your timeline by considering these tips

timeline tips

03.

Bride with Mom
Bride with Dad
Bride and Groom with Bride's Parents
Above group + Bride’s Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Bride’s Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Bride’s Grandparents Set 2
Bride + Groom + sets of Parents
Groom with Mom
Groom with Dad
Bride and Groom with Groom’s Parents
Above group + Groom’s Siblings with Spouses and Kids
Above group + Groom’s Grandparents Set 1
Above group + Groom’s Grandparents Set 1

sample family photo list:

Family photos are so important, especially on a day when two families become one! Creating a list of must-have family portraits will ensure I'm not missing any photos of important people. 

I encourage you to bring a few printed copies to reference and assigning a family member, friend, or bridesmaid to make sure each person is present for portraits.

family photos

04.

any sentimental items

BOUQUET + BOUTONNIÈRE

vows + letters

invites + programs

jewelry + accessories

rings

veil

his + her shoes

suit/tux with tie + pocket square

dress + dress hanger

wedding details that will be photographed

checklist

05.

Should you have any wedding day questions regarding photography, please reach out via email: info@caseyhphotos.com. I can't wait to celebrate you on your wedding day!

Say 'yes' to the best day ever!