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WEDDING GUIDE
LUXE FILMOGRAPHY
love story, timeline guidance, vendor recommendations & more!
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Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I'm so excited to work with you and I can’t wait to get to know you better over the course of time leading to your wedding! Videography is one of the larger investments you've made for your wedding day, so 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 filmed countless weddings over the past decade, I tend to get asked some of the same questions a lot. I thought it would be beneficial to put together a guide that walks you through everything from timelines to love story sessions.
- patrick
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!
I'm a big fan of love stories 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 that is significant to the two of you. I'll soon have an entire page dedicated to outfit tips, location ideas, timing considerations. In the meantime you can contact me.
Love Story Film
plan your session
Vendors
WHO WILL MAKE YOUR DAY INCREDIBLE
Over the years, I've learned the important role quality vendors play in creating a stress-free wedding day. These are vendors I've personally worked with, and I can't recommend them enough! This is not a paid list - I chose these vendors for both the quality of their work as well as their professionalism on the actual wedding day.
WEDDING PLANNERS
FLORAL DESIGNERS
photOGRAPHY
CATERING
DJ & BANDS
HAIR & MAKEUP
CAKES
WEDDING DRESS
RENTALS
Invitations
CALLIGRAPHY
OFFICIANTs
That moment a couple sees each other for the first time on their wedding day is magical. This is true whether the couple waits until the processional or chooses to do a first look prior to the ceremony.
The first look — a private moment a couple chooses to spend together prior to the wedding ceremony — has become more popular over the last few years. Half of my couples this year have chosen to do a first look.
While I respect those who value tradition, there are definitely a few good reasons to consider a first look. Here are 3 of them:
Is a First Look Right for You?
If you're wondering whether a first look is right for you, read this.
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 portraits are generally done as soon as the ceremony ends because it’s the easiest time to round everyone up. Next up is full wedding party, and then couple's portraits. This generally runs into cocktail hour.
The first look also adds emotional content to your wedding film. The most impactful moments of your film revolve around beautiful spoken words like your personal vows and card readings. When you see each other during a first look, it's a truly heartfelt moment as you verbalize your love and excitement.
2. IT MakeS more time for Pictures without sacrificing cocktail hour.
If you’re expecting poor weather on your wedding day, it might be best to plan on a first look because it gives you more options for video and photos. If it’s pouring rain after the ceremony, you’ll be thankful you had taken the video and photos 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 before the ceremony or during the processional, I will work with you to make sure you have the best timeline and plan for a perfect film.
If you choose to go traditional, you'll need two different sets of video/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 videos and photos of each partner at separate times. You'll also need 15 minutes of combined wedding 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 partner 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 candid shots 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 or an evening ceremony, it's best to do all video and photos before the wedding, as daylight is crucial to getting amazing portraits for your families, wedding party, and your couple's portraits. Making sure we have enough time while the sun is up is a great way to make the traditional ceremony work.
12 p.m.
My 2nd shooter and I arrive at each wedding partner's getting ready location.
12pm - Getting Ready
Note: Ideally by the time we arrive, hair and makeup is already wrapping up. If not, this can push back the timeline.
1:15 p.m.
Groom/Bride and party depart for ceremony site.
1:15pm - Wedding party 1 Departs
1:30 p.m.
Bride and bridesmaids (or groom in same-sex) depart for ceremony location.
1:30pm - Ladies Depart
1:45 p.m.
The first look takes place.
1:45 First Look
Note: The First Look can take place at the getting ready location, ceremony, or reception location. It’s up to you! Although I'm happy to make recommendations.
2:00 p.m.
Wedding couple and wedding party portraits.
2:00pm - Portraits
3:00 p.m.
The ceremony takes place.
3:00PM Ceremony
3:30 p.m.
Family portraits.
3:30pm Family Portraits
Note: Family portraits done right after the ceremony are great because everyone you need will be easy to grab. If you give your family notice that pictures will be taken immediately after the ceremony, that will ensure that no one wanders off.
4:00 P.M.
Additional Wedding Party and Wedding Couple Portraits
4:00pm Portraits
4:30 p.M.
Cocktail Hour
4:30pm Cocktail Hour
Note: The great thing about doing a First Look is that it gives you more time at cocktail hour. We’ll grab some shots of your guests while you enjoy the hour.
5:00 P.M.
Introductions & First Dance
5pm Introductions
5:30 P.M.
Welcome toasts & salads followed by speeches and entrees.
5:30pm Dinner
6:00 P.M.
Sunset Portraits
6pm Sunset Portraits
We’ll make sure to grab you two about 45 minutes before the sunsets. This is usually the best light of the day!
6:30 P.M.
Dancing begins
6:30pm Dancing
7:15 P.M.
Cake cutting followed by bouquet toss.
7:15pm Traditions
8:00 P.M.
Videographers Depart
8:00pm Photographers Depart
1 p.m.
My 2nd shooter and I arrive at each wedding partner's getting ready location.
1pm - Getting Ready
Note: Ideally by the time we arrive, hair and makeup is already wrapping up. If not, this can push back the timeline.
2:00 p.m.
Groom/Bride and party depart for ceremony site.
2:00pm - wedding party Departs
2:15 p.m.
Bride/Groom and wedding party depart for ceremony location and take pre-ceremony group photos.
2:15pm - wedding party 2 Departs
3:00 p.m.
The ceremony takes place.
3:00PM Ceremony
3:30 p.m.
Family portraits.
3:30pm Family Portraits
Note: Family portraits done right after the ceremony are great because everyone you need will be easy to grab. If you give your family notice that pictures will be taken immediately after the ceremony, that will ensure that no one wanders off.
4:00 P.M.
Wedding Party and Couple's 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
6:00 P.M.
Welcome toasts & salads followed by speeches and entrees.
6:00pm Dinner
7:30 P.M.
Sunset Portraits
7:30pm Sunset Portraits
We’ll make sure to grab you two about 45 minutes before the sunsets. This is usually the best light of the day!
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.
Videographers Depart
9:00pm Photographers Depart
If the forecast calls for rain, fear not because rainy days can still be beautiful!
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 to make sure I can still shoot in natural light - even if it means heading offsite.
Rain 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 and if your wedding is outdoors, DJs and bands may need to take extra precaution to protect their gear. A quality rental team can also minimize the amount of mud at outdoor events.
While I can't guarantee that rain on your wedding day is good luck, I can put a plan in place to ensure a beautiful day and beautiful images.
Rainy 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
We love capturing all the little details you've carefully chosen to be a part of your wedding day! Once we arrive at your wedding, we need about 30 minutes to capture and style details. We 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 us. Please unwrap your dress but don't worry about styling it - we'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 ( 2 full sets with envelopes + stamps)
Any other paper stationary you may have like program cards.
Bridal DETAILS Checklist
Shoes
Socks (if they're special)
Cuff Links
Tie or Bow Tie
Pocket Square
Boutonnière
Vows Book
Rings
Anything else that is special or sentimental.
Vow Book
Any other sentimental keepsakes you would like to include
We once had a bride bring her grandmother's hand mirror. This is completely optional - but if you have something sentimental you'd like styled with your details, we love including family heirlooms in our detail shots.
Bonus: We'd love to have a few cuts of the florals you'll be using throughout your wedding day. If your florist will supply us a small bucket of extra pieces we can incorporate those in your detail shots.
GROOM DETAILS Checklist
When we can, we always try to film 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. We'll also film the rings during the reception.
The Rings
For family portraits, your photographer will place you in the center of a large group photo with all of your grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, etc. And then they’ll remove the extended family so it’s just grandparents, parents and siblings.
They’ll keep removing family members and switch a few closer family members in and out so they get photos of you and your parents, you and your siblings, some with the groom and your family, etc. Then they’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.
Your photographer should send out a pre-wedding questionnaire asking for 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 a typical list below.
Family Formals
your entire family, dressed up and together
Wedding Couple + Bride/Groom's Extended Family
Wedding Couple + Bride/Groom's Parents + Siblings + Grandparents
Wedding Couple + Bride/Groom's Parents + Siblings
Wedding Couple + Bride/Groom's Parents
Wedding Couple + Bride/Groom's Siblings
Bride/Groom + Mom
Bride/Groom + Dad
Wedding Couple + Groom/Bride's Extended Family
Wedding Couple + Groom/Bride's Parents + Siblings + Grandparents
Wedding Couple + Groom/Bride's Parents + Siblings
Wedding Couple + Groom'/Bride's Parents
Wedding Couple + Groom/Bride's Siblings
Groom/Bride + Mom
Groom/Bride + Dad
family Portrait Session Checklist
Consider Unplugging
If you've been to a wedding recently, you may have seen a sign from the happy couple asking for their guests to remain "unplugged" during the ceremony.
While it might seem like a strange request to ask guests to put down their phones, there's a pretty good reason for it! You made a big investment in videography, and we're sure one of the last things you want on your wedding day is for our shots of your ceremony to be filled with obtrusive cell phones, tablets, and relatives standing in the aisle with their own cameras. In order to help us do the best possible job capturing your wedding, we recommend asking guests to unplug during the ceremony.
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 wedding party to avoid hunger 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 anyone is wearing lots of layers.
3. Make sure you 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 wedding party or a parent, they often feel more comfortable being fully dressed in their wedding attire.
Additional Tips
AFTER SHOOTING countless weddings in the past decade, i'm happy to share a few additional tips
5. If your reception is at a separate venue, add some "fluff time" so that my team and I can run over to the venue to capture it while it's still "untouched" by guests.
6. We always recommend the couple 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 your photographer with a list ahead of time, they can go over it and make sure they shoot things in an order that is efficient and won't leave anyone out.
8. I'd love to help you plan your timeline. If you'd like my input, don't hesitate to email or call!
I can't wait to start planning with you and getting to know you! If you haven't scheduled your Love Story Film yet, let's get that in the books. Feel free to email me any time at hello@luxefilmography.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!