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THE BRIDE BOOK
your online guide to engagement session tips, timeline guidance, recommendations & more!
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Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait to get to know you better over the next several months! I know photography is one of the larger investments you're making for your wedding day and I'm so honored you chose to work with me!
Even if you're working with a wedding planner or you're planning a simple wedding, there are likely still a lot of moving pieces left leading up to your big day.
Having photographed many (many!) weddings over the past years, I tend to get asked the same things over and over again. So I thought it would be beneficial if I put together a guide that walks you through everything from timelines to engagement sessions and inclement weather - and more!
Thank you again for choosing to work with me and please don't hesitate to let me know if I can offer any additional guidance throughout the wedding planning process!
Rachael
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. Not only do they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera, they also give you the opportunity to showcase your personalities in a more casual setting. Engagement sessions typically last around 60-90 minutes, & I recommend bringing an outfit change. Pets are more than welcome, as are props (popping a bottle of champagne together is always cute!). The best time to take your photos is during the 2 hours prior to sunset, as this is usually the prettiest light. Email me & let's start planning yours today!
Engagement Session
That moment the Bride and Groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day is magical. And this is true whether the couple chooses to wait until the bride walks down the aisle or chooses to do a “first look’ prior to the ceremony.
First looks—a private moment couples choose to spend together prior to the wedding ceremony—have become more popular over the last few years. Over half of my couples typically have chosen to do a first look.
While I value tradition, there are definitely a few good reasons to consider a first look. Here are 3 reasons to consider a ‘first look’:
Is a First Look Right for You?
If you're wondering whether a first look is right for you, stop here.
Once the ceremony begins, the day takes off quickly. A ‘first look’ is an opportunity to enjoy some quiet time alone, enjoy each other’s company, and reflect on all this day means before your day takes off.
Wedding days can be a whirlwind and they tend to fly by. There’s much to do, and a lot of people to see and to catch up with. We always encourage our couples to take a few minutes every so often during their wedding to stop and soak in everything that’s happening.
1. A first look cuts through the chaos of the day.
When there is no first look, the majority of the pictures have to be taken after the ceremony. Family pictures are generally done as soon as the ceremony ends because it’s the easiest time to round everyone up. Next up is full bridal party, and then bride and groom portraits. This generally runs into cocktail hour, or takes it up entirely.
A first look opens up time prior to the ceremony for full bridal party pictures as well as un-rushed bride and groom portraits (although I love to get a few bride and groom portraits at sunset as well when possible). This allows the couple to get the most out of cocktail hour, which makes the rest of the evening feel less rushed.
2. IT MakeS more time for Pictures without sacrificing cocktail hour.
If you’re expecting poor weather on your wedding day (hello, midwest winters and springs!), it might be best to plan on a first look because it gives you more options for pictures. If its pouring rain after the ceremony, you’ll be thankful you had pictures done in advance.
And reason 3b is for all you cryers out there. If you know the tears are going to fly the first time you see your other half the day of your wedding, a first look will give you time to freshen up before the ceremony.
First look or not, the first time you see each other on your wedding day will be special.
3. Avoid possible bad weather and/or have time to freshen-up after crying
Wedding Day Timeline
building the perfect
Whether you choose to do a first look or the traditional "no see before the ceremony" I will work with you on making sure you have the best timeline and plan for images.
If you're choosing to go traditional, you'll need two different sets of photo times: images taken before the ceremony and images taken after the ceremony.
You'll need to plan for about one hour of pre-ceremony bridal photos (bridesmaids and bride's family) and about one hour of pre-ceremony groom photos (groomsmen and groom's family). You'll also need 15 minutes of combined bridal party portraits, 15 minutes of combined family portraits and at least 30 -45 minutes of couple's portraits after the ceremony if you're not doing any portraits together until after the ceremony.
Whether you're planning a first look or sticking with tradition and not seeing your groom until you walk down the aisle, I have tips to help make planning your timeline as easy as possible!
If you're doing a first look, photos can be done all at one time, taking an average total of 2 hours pre-ceremony (although I also LOVE grabbing just the two of you for a few additional bride and groom photos at sunset!)
If you choose a traditional aisle reveal, all I ask is that you keep your ceremony time in mind when planning your wedding.
If you're planning a sunset ceremony, an evening ceremony, or getting married during good ol' daylight savings time in the winter months, it's best to do all photos before the wedding, as daylight is crucial to getting amazing portraits for your families, bridal party and your couples portraits. Making sure I have enough time while the sun is up is a great way to make the traditional ceremony work.
1 p.m.
Rachael arrives at Bride’s getting ready location and her assistant arrives at Groom’s getting ready location.
1 pm - Getting Ready & details
Note: Ideally by the time we arrive, hair and makeup is already wrapping up. If something is going to delay the beginning of the day, it’s often HAMU.
2:00 p.m.
Groom + groomsmen depart for portrait and/or ceremony site.
2:00 pm - Guys Depart
2:30 p.m.
Bride and bridesmaids depart for portrait and/or ceremony location.
2:30pm - Ladies Depart
2:45 p.m.
The first look takes place.
2:45 First Look
Note: The First Look can take place at the getting ready location, ceremony, or reception location. It’s up to you! Although we’re happy to make recommendations.
3:00 p.m.
Bride & Groom + bridal party portraits.
3:00pm - Portraits
Note: I plan for around 60-90 minutes for portraits, and want to have the bride tucked away at least 30 minutes prior to the ceremony start time.
5:00 p.m.
The ceremony takes place.
5:00PM Ceremony
5:30 p.m.
Family portraits.
5:30pm Family Portraits
Note: I do family portraits right after the ceremony because everyone you need will be easy to grab. If you can give your family notice that we’ll be taking pictures immediately after the ceremony, that will also ensure that no one wanders off. I’ll help you create a list of family portraits before the big day.
6:00 P.M.
Additional Bridal Party and Bride & Groom Portraits
6:00pm Portraits
Note: Depending on what was taken before the ceremony, I might grab 1 or 2 more full bridal party shots.
5:30 - 6:30 p.M.
Cocktail Hour
5:30 - 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour
Note: The great thing about doing a First Look is that it gives you more time at cocktail hour. My assistant will grab some pictures of your guests while you enjoy the hour, meanwhile, I'll have the chance to photograph all your reception details.
6:45 P.M.
Introductions & First Dance
6:45 pm Introductions
Note: Some couples opt to start their reception with a first dance, others opt to start with cutting the cake. You may want to discuss this with your planner, venue, or DJ - I'm happy to help as well!
7:00 P.M.
Welcome toasts & salads followed by speeches and entrees.
7:00pm Dinner
Note: I highly recommend asking your caterer to serve vendors dinner at the same time as the wedding party. This ensures we are all ready to go when you are - and saves us from wasting valuable time.
7:45 P.M.
Sunset Portraits
7:30 pm Sunset Portraits
Note: When possible, I love to grab the couple for a few portraits 30-45 min before sunset. This is usually the best light of the day! Keep in mind the sunset time will vary depending on the date of your wedding.
8:00 P.M.
Dancing begins
8:00 pm Dancing
9:00 P.M.
Photographers Depart
9:00pm Photographers Depart
1 p.m.
Rachael arrives at Bride’s getting ready location and her assistant arrives at Groom’s getting ready location.
1pm - Getting Ready
Note: Ideally by the time we arrive, hair and makeup is already wrapping up. If something is going to delay the beginning of the day, it’s often HAMU.
2:00 p.m.
Groom + groomsmen depart for ceremony site & take pre-ceremony group photos.
2:00pm - Guys Depart
2:15 p.m.
Bride and bridesmaids depart for ceremony location and take pre-ceremony group photos.
2:15pm - Ladies Depart
3:00 p.m.
The ceremony takes place.
3:00PM Ceremony
3:30 p.m.
Family portraits.
3:30pm Family Portraits
Note: I do family portraits right after the ceremony because everyone you need will be easy to grab. If you can give your family notice that I’ll be taking pictures immediately after the ceremony, that will also ensure that no one wanders off. I’ll help you create a list of family portraits before the big day.
4:00 P.M.
Bridal Party and Bride & Groom Portraits
4:00pm Portraits
Note: Depending on what was taken before the ceremony, this normally takes about an hour total.
5:30 P.M.
Introductions & First Dance
5:30pm Introductions
Note: Some couples opt to start their reception with a first dance, others opt to start with cutting the cake. You may want to discuss this with your planner, venue, or DJ - I'm happy to help as well!
6:00 P.M.
Welcome toasts & salads followed by speeches and entrees.
6:00pm Dinner
Note: I highly recommend asking your caterer to serve vendors dinner at the same time as the wedding party. This ensures we are all ready to go when you are - and saves us from wasting valuable time.
7:30 P.M.
Sunset Portraits
7:30pm Sunset Portraits
I’ll make sure to grab you two about 45 minutes before the sunsets. This is usually the best light of the day! Keep in mind sunset time will change depending on your wedding date.
8:00 P.M.
Dancing begins
8:00pm Dancing
8:30 P.M.
Cake cutting followed by bouquet toss.
8:30pm Traditions
9:00 P.M.
Photographer’s Depart
9:00pm Photographers Depart
If the forecast is calling for rain or snow, fear not because rainy/snowy days can still be beautiful! Planning ahead and having a rain plan in place helps to ensure your day is stress free no matter the weather.
If rain is in the forecast, I recommend ordering a few clear umbrellas on Amazon. It also might be good to re-evaluate portrait locations - even if it means heading offsite. If snow or cold temps are called for, I recommend purchasing a pretty pashmina or faux fur for the ladies.
Rain & Snow Tips
If you don't own a pair of cute Wellies, now may be a great time to order a pair - even if you're just wearing them in between shooting locations.
If you're not working with a planner, it might also be a good idea to check in with your entire vendor team to make sure they're aware of the weather. Hair and makeup may need to be tweaked to withstand humidity or wind, and if your wedding is outdoors, DJs and bands may need to take extra precaution to protect their gear.
While I can't guarantee perfect weather on your wedding day, I can help you put a plan in place to ensure a beautiful day and beautiful images.
Rainy/Snowy day weddings may require a little more flexibility and creativity, but there isn't any reason why they can't be as beautiful and as joyful as sunny weddings!
Wedding Day Details
I love capturing all the little details you've carefully chosen to be a part of your wedding day! Once I arrive at your wedding, I need about 30 minutes to capture and style details. I recommend choosing a getting ready location filled with natural light and, if possible, please keep the space free from trash and clutter.
It would be wonderful if you could put all of your rings, jewelry, shoes, veil purse, perfume, invitations and other keepsakes together in one spot for me. Please unwrap your dress but don't worry about styling it - I'll hang it in a beautiful spot!
Dress
Dress Hanger
Rings (both engagement and wedding bands)
Shoes
Veil
Bouquet
Ring
Hair pieces
Jewelry
Invitation Suite ( full set with envelopes + stamps)
Any other paper stationary you may have like program cards.
Bridal DETAILS Checklist
His shoes
Socks (if they're special)
Cuff Links
Tie or Bow Tie
Pocket Square
Boutonnière
Vows Book
Rings
Anything else he'll have that is special or sentimental.
Vow Book
Any other sentimental keepsakes you would like to include
I once had a bride bring her grandmother's silver tray. This is completely optional - but if you have something sentimental you'd like styled with your details, I love including family heirlooms in our detail shots.
Bonus: I'd love to have a few cuts of the florals you'll be using throughout your wedding day. If your florist will supply me with a few extra blooms & pieces I can incorporate those in your detail shots.
GROOM DETAILS Checklist
When I can, we always try to take a photo of your rings while you're getting ready. If possible, try to have your engagement ring cleaned or clean it yourself. To clean at home, soak your ring in warm water with dishwashing soap for 20 to 40 minutes. Then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush, rinse and repeat if needed.
The Rings
For family portraits, I’ll place you in the center of a large group photo with all of your grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, godparents, etc. And then I’ll remove the extended family so it’s just grandparents, parents and siblings.
I’ll keep removing family members and switch a few closer family members in and out so we get photos of you and your parents, you and your siblings, some with the groom and your family, etc. Then I’ll repeat the process with your spouse's family. The whole thing will go quicker and smoother if you let family know how the portrait process will work ahead of time.
When I send out our pre-wedding planning documents, I'll ask you for a list of specific groupings, special situations (such as divorces or handicapped family members & more), but if you want to start brainstorming photos in the meantime, you'll find our typical list below.
Family Formals:
legacy images to treasure forever
Bride + Groom + Bride's Extended Family
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Bride's Siblings + Bride's Grandparents
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Bride's Siblings
Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents
Bride + Groom + Bride's Siblings
Bride + Mom
Bride + Dad
Bride + Groom + Groom's Extended Family
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Groom's Siblings + Groom's Grandparents
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Groom's Siblings
Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents
Bride + Groom + Groom's Siblings
Groom + Mom
Groom + Dad
Portrait Session Checklist
Please note that this list is just a starting point and that I am more than happy to take any requested family portraits as long as time allows!
Consider Unplugging
If you've been to a wedding recently, you may have seen a sign from the couple asking for their guests to remain "unplugged" during the ceremony.
While it might seem like a strange requests to ask guests to put down their phones, there's a pretty good reason for it! You made a big investment in photography and I'm sure one of the last things you want on your wedding day is for my photos of your ceremony to be filled with obtrusive iPhones, iPads and relatives standing in the aisle with their own cameras. In order to help me do the best possible job capturing your wedding, I recommend asking guests to unplug during the ceremony. They're welcome to pick those phones and cameras back up later - I even recommend they make use of a special wedding day #hashtag so you can spy all their snapshots later!
1. If you're getting married in the summer months, a "not-so-heavy" snack or lunch time before portraits is always a good idea for you and your bridal party to avoid hungry bellies and passing out!
2. If it's going to be hot, a cooler of cold waters and frozen washcloths can help keep a wedding party cool - especially if your men are wearing lots of layers.
3. Make sure and have your bouquet delivered in time to make an appearance for the detail shots and for your first look. Often they are delivered in water and need to be dried off before use. Having towels handy can help.
4. If you're planning on having a first look with your bridal party or a parent, they often feel more comfortable being fully dressed in their wedding attire.
5. If your reception is at a separate venue, add some "fluff time" so that we can run over to the venue to capture it while it's still "untouched" by guests.
Additional Tips:
AFTER SHOOTING MORE THAN 100 weddings in the past few years, i'm happy to share a few additional tips
6. I always recommend the bride go into hiding 30 minutes before the ceremony at the absolute latest. Guests typically arrive early to weddings.
7. To help make family portraits go smoother, it's best to have a breakdown of what portraits you'd like and it's really wonderful if both sides of the family have a chance to have their input on what portraits they'd like before the wedding. Supplying me with a list ahead of time, we can go over it and make sure we shoot things in an order that is efficient and won't leave anyone out.
8. During the cocktail hour and the reception, anytime you'd like a photo with someone, grab our attention. My assistants and I love being your personal paparazzi!
9. I would love to help you plan your timeline. If you'd like my input, don't hesitate to email or call! In addition, I recommend scheduling a time to chat 1-2 weeks before the wedding to go over everything one last time for your peace of mind. I'm always only a call, text, or email away.
One of the best ways to make your wedding memories last is by ordering
an album. These high quality professionally designed albums come in a
variety of linen & leather colors.
These aren’t the same albums your parents' wedding photos came in.
They’re modern, lay perfectly flat and look incredible on a coffee table.
Albums
more details
the perfect way to remember your wedding day
I can't wait to start planning with you and getting to know you! If you haven't scheduled your engagement session yet, let's get that in the books. Feel free to email me any time at hello@rachaelosborn.com.
If you have any questions or would just like to chat, I'm here for you. I hope this guide helps make the process of planning your wedding details much easier and less stressful. I can't wait to see you soon! Thank you so much for taking the time to read through my guide!
Thank You!
