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Colorful West Texas Gage Hotel Wedding

April 22, 2021 | riley

There’s a saying “everything is bigger in Texas,” and Kimberly and Clint proved that to be true with their colorful Gage Hotel wedding in Marathon, Texas. The couple knew they wanted to incorporate their love for the desert into their special day, so when they came across the historic hotel, they knew it was the one. Their desert theme was apparent with a coral and sage color palette, Mexican blankets, margaritas, and succulents decorating the space.

The dreamy day also included a DIY macrame backdrop, custom handwritten gift bags for the wedding party, boho wedding fashion that’s to die for, and a donkey-led parade down the streets of West Texas. That’s right–a police escort even stopped traffic for this lively fiesta.

If you’re searching for desert wedding inspo, look no further. These photos beautifully captured by Jadie Photography will have you ready to break out the maracas and tequila!

The Couple:

Kimberly and Clint

The Wedding:

Gage Hotel, Marathon, Texas

Shop similar hats: 

Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue

I wore my hair in a fat fishtail braid, tied with a piece of my mother’s wedding dress, which was my “something old.” My Matron of Honor offered me her stunning diamond earrings, so that was my “something borrowed.” The chic, military-inspired hat I donned at the reception absolutely made the look. As for the hat’s custom details, I had a Dry Creek Turquoise thunderbird pendant that I found on a girl’s trip in Fredericksburg added–and it’s permanently mounted on the hat–and represented my “something blue.” There’s also leather cording and my mother’s wedding dress carefully twisted with horsehair & sage around the hat.

Choosing A Gage Hotel Wedding

About a year before the wedding, we went on what we are called “the West Texas tour,” with the Gage Hotel being the last venue on our expedition. We had seen photos of the Gage and had a brief conversation with them over the phone to get an idea of what it would cost to celebrate there. It was definitely not in our budget, but I thought we should check it out anyway. When we pulled up, we looked at each other and said, this is it, we have to make this happen. We were determined to make it happen, and we did! 

A DIY Backdrop

At the ceremony, we flaunted a 12-foot handwoven macramé backdrop that was handcrafted and woven by my mother and me. It was a learning experience for the two of us–we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into–and an opportunity to plan and bond prior to the big day. All in all, it took us about 42 hours to construct. We watched countless hours of YouTube videos to learn how to tie all the knots and weave an exquisite masterpiece. The macramé now resides in our stairwell, and it’s a daily reminder that with patience and persistence, we can do anything we put our minds to.

A Parade Down The Streets of Marathon

One of the coolest and most memorable aspects of our wedding was the donkey processional from the ceremony site to the reception and cocktail hour. Unbeknownst to me, we had a police escort, and all traffic passing through town stopped for our mini parade. Our beautiful donkey named W.T. led the way to the party! In addition, our guitarist Nick strummed some fun Latin tunes on the march over while everyone held hands and danced with maracas.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Jadie Photography
Venue – Gage Hotel
DJ – DJ Hexum
Invitation Design – Paper Place
Makeup Artist – Kloak Beauty
Wedding Dress – Lover’s Society
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Reformation
Groom & Groomsmen’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rings – David Gardner’s

 

Congratulations again to Kimberly and Clint on their colorful Gage Hotel wedding. We’re so thankful that Jadie Photography was there to capture their special day. To get started on planning your own dream desert affair, check out these southwestern color palettes!

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11 Things To Expect When Attending An Indian Wedding

April 14, 2021 | olivia
attending an indian wedding celebration

Image by Matei Horvath Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

If you’ve received an invitation to attend an Indian wedding, then you might be wondering what to wear, what to bring, and—honestly—what to expect. No two Indian weddings are alike, but they are always filled with lots of tradition and culture. You’re truly in for a unique experience. With all the amazing food, beautiful colors, and incredible music, we know you are going to have an amazing time. 

We want you to focus on having a great time, which is why we’ve put together this guide for you. We’ve got all the information you’ll need as a guest. Keep scrolling to see the eleven things to expect when attending an Indian wedding. 

1. It’s A Long Celebration

Indian weddings can last up anywhere from three days to a full week, depending on the ceremony. There are pre-wedding rituals leading up to the 2 to 3-hour long marriage ceremony. If you’ve been invited to an Indian wedding, make sure you bring enough outfits for all the days—and definitely bring comfortable shoes. You’ll also want to make sure you read which events you’ve been invited to. Some guests are invited to all events over the course of the wedding while others may only be invited to the last day. 

Image by Carlos Elizondo. See more of this real wedding here.

2. You’ll Want To Dress Conservatively and Appropriately

For Indian weddings, it is best to dress both conservatively and appropriately. Before you buy an outfit, check with the couple and ask for their expectations. If they say to wear something traditional, then you’ll want to wear traditional Indian wedding attire. If that’s the case, you can rent these outfits from companies like Riya Collective and Saris and Things.

Some couples are comfortable with traditionally western wedding attire, then aim for color. Indian weddings are filled with color so you’ll want to stay away from bland black and white looks. Plus, white is seen as a mourning color and black is bad luck, so definitely steer clear of these colors. We recommend a colorful suit or a colorful dress.  

Junebug Tip: 

If you’re looking for a colorful suit, check out our colorful suit round-up and our unique suit ideas. These are perfect for Indian weddings.

Regardless of what you choose, you’ll want to dress on the conservative side. Avoid showing off too much of your legs, shoulders, or cleavage. Instead, go big and show your personal style through jewelry, colors, and patterns. Keep in mind that you’ll want your most formal outfit to be for the wedding day/reception.

3. The First Two Days of Events

The first day includes a ceremony known as the Ganesha Pooja—an intimate Hindu ceremony that takes place with close family and friends only. The second day is for the sangeet, or Mehendi ceremony, and will often have guest participation. The sangeet is a night of dancing where all the guests will join the bride and groom to celebrate their marriage and the union of two families. This is also traditionally when the bride is adorned with henna tattoos on her hands and feet. 

Image by Nicola Tonolini. See more of this real wedding here.

4. The Hindu Wedding Ceremony Is On The Third Day

After the first two days of wedding events, the third day is reserved for the Hindu wedding ceremony. This ceremony, which is typically held in the morning, can last anywhere between one and a half to two hours long, and then begins the reception. The entire third day can last 16 hours, so make sure you stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes. 

bright indian wedding

Image by Jenny Collen. See more of this real wedding here.

5. Saptapadi: The Seven Steps

Saptapadi literally translates to seven steps and this part of the ceremony is very important. The couple walks seven full circles clockwise around a fire pit. This represents the seven sacred vows and promises that they are making to one another. Each mantra is then recited to the couple. There isn’t normally an exchange of vows performed at these weddings. Think of the seven steps as like the couple’s ‘vows’ that they will hold during their marriage. 

6. Attending an Indian Wedding: You Should Get Involved

Yes, we do mean dance, laugh, eat, and be merry. Indian weddings are a huge celebration and the last thing you’ll want to be doing is sitting at your table. Don’t be afraid to get up and partake. If you don’t know what is going on, ask! Besides dancing and eating, you’ll also be expected to participate during steps in the ceremony as a show of blessing the couple. Getting involved as a guest shows your love for the couple. 

Image by Studio Rossini. See more of this real wedding here.

7. There Will Be Lots Of Food 

Get ready for lots of food. Indian weddings have a huge feast for everyone to enjoy. When you first enter the wedding venue, you’ll be treated to appetizers and snacks. Don’t be coy—you’ll want that snack so you’re not the person in the audience with the stomach growling. 

Once the wedding is over, the main course will be served. As far as what to expect, there are regional variations for foods. For many West and South Indian weddings, vegetarian food is served. But for many North and East Indian weddings, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is served. 

8. There Might Be No Alcohol

You read that right. Traditionally, alcohol is not served at Hindu weddings, especially if the wedding is held at a temple. More modern Indian weddings sometimes include alcohol during the pre-ceremony festivities and the reception. Alcohol won’t be present during the ceremony, though depending on the couple’s religious beliefs. When in doubt, politely ask them before the wedding. 

9. Give The Gift of Money

After the wedding ceremony, the reception party is where the couple receives blessings and gifts from everyone at their wedding. If you’re wondering what to get the couple, a traditional wedding gift is money. This is the most thoughtful gift as it helps the couple to start their lives together. Find an embroidered bag or lovely pretty envelope, write down some best wishes, and place the money in. Always give money in an amount that ends in one. This is very important as one is a blessing that wishes them prosperity and good fortune. 

Image by Nicola Tonolini. See more of this real wedding here.

10. Red Is A Traditional Color

Hindu brides traditionally don’t wear white on their wedding day. Instead, they wear red and gold to symbolize fertility and commitment. However, more modern Indian brides are often opting for other rich saturated colors like pastel florals, bright yellow, or even a bold blue.  

11. Don’t Dance With The Bride

Okay, so at many weddings, it’s normal to head to the dance floor and dance with the bride—especially if she is your friend. However, at traditional Indian weddings, men should resist the urge to dance with the bride. In Indian culture, brides shouldn’t dance with other men on their wedding day.

Image by For Love & Light. See more of this real wedding here.

We hope this guide has helped you understand a few customs and traditions and will help you get ready when attending an Indian wedding. We want you to focus on having a wonderful time celebrating the couple, dancing, and eating. And if you want to see some Indian weddings, check out this intimate wedding at the Villa Artimino, this colorful Indian wedding, and this modern Indian wedding.

Image by For Love & Light. See more of this real wedding here.

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9 Unconventional Rehearsal Dinner Ideas

April 12, 2021 | morgan

When it comes to the rehearsal dinner, many people assume it has to be a sit-down dinner the night before the wedding with just family and the wedding party. Well, we’re here to tell you that’s not your only option! Your rehearsal dinner is the last chance to get everyone together for a relaxing evening before the rush of the wedding day.

Take the opportunity to mix it up and make it yet another night to remember. Think outside the formal ballroom and explore other group-friendly settings to serve your favorite foods, talk to guests, and revel in the moment. If you’re ready to break tradition and host an unconventional rehearsal dinner, keep scrolling because we’re rounding up some of our favorite ideas to help get the party started before your wedding day.

1. Boat Cruise Rehearsal Dinner

Consider setting sail with your favorite people, enjoying dinner on the open water, and toasting your nearest and dearest as the sun sets over the horizon. This is a great way to get your guests into a truly relaxing space for the night. If you live near a large river, lake, or right on the ocean, chances are you will be able to find a boat cruise company that will allow you to rent a private vessel.

As with any rehearsal dinner, let your guests know the plan ahead of time so they can dress appropriately and bring along any personal essentials. Planning is essential for a boat cruise in case some guests need to plan ahead for potential motion sickness.

2. Restaurant Crawl Rehearsal Dinner Ideas

Why visit just one restaurant when you could visit a few? Restaurant hopping gives you lots of options to break it up by dinner course or simply order small bites at each place. Depending on the distance between each restaurant, you’ll want to let your guests know ahead of time so they can plan to wear comfortable walking shoes or you may need to order a car service to transport everyone. And, of course, be sure to make reservations beforehand so you can secure a table everywhere you go.

If you’re splitting it up by course, pick one spot for everyone to meet for drinks and appetizers to kick off your evening. Then move on to the second spot to enjoy the main dinner, distribute any wedding party or parent gifts, and call for any toasts. Once everyone has had their fill, end the night at a cozy café for dessert. Sharing a few of your favorite restaurants with your favorite people keeps the energy high all night long.

3. Picnic Rehearsal Dinner

Your rehearsal dinner doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive to be memorable, and a picnic is a perfect option for laid-back couples who want an equally laid-back celebration. Decide whether you want guests to sit on the ground–traditional picnic-style–or set up tables around the open space. Then put together a menu of simple finger foods, wine, lemonades, flavored teas, and mini desserts to display buffet style.  Tie it all together with a few simple floral arrangements and you’re set.

Whether you host the picnic in your backyard or a city park, the relaxed feel and chance to take it easy with you in an informal setting will set the stage for the wedding.

4. Theme Party Rehearsal Dinner Ideas

If you wanted a theme for your wedding but couldn’t quite make it fit, make that dream come alive with a themed rehearsal dinner instead. We’ve seen couples base their themes on a particular region, food, style, hobby, or interest. Think outside of the box to create a memorable Mexican-inspired fiesta, crawfish boil, casino night, or even a wedding-themed murder mystery party.

This is your chance to go a little more whimsical and carefree than you would for your wedding. It also makes for a perfect icebreaker for guests who haven’t met everyone yet.

5. Pizza Night

Who doesn’t love pizza? Pizza night can take a variety of forms and gives everyone the opportunity to kick back and grab a slice. Whether you opt to make the evening very casual with a pizza buffet with informal seating areas or a more structured dinner party setup with personal pizzas for each guest, the options are endless. You can also take the opportunity to rent a pizza oven and let your loved ones build their own pizzas.

Regardless of the setup you choose, offering fun local cocktails and drinks will add a personal twist and introduce the group to things they may not be familiar with—even if they are local.

6. Brewery, Distillery, or Winery Tour

If you’re looking for a daytime post-rehearsal celebration, a tour of a local brewery, distillery, or winery is a great option. Depending on the size of your group you may be able to book a private tour. If having a private tour is important, make sure to find a place that can accommodate your group sans walk-ins. You also want to find out if children are allowed. If they’re not, communicate this with your guests to ensure they can plan ahead of time.

Many breweries, distilleries, and wineries offer food or have food trucks available on site. Call ahead to make sure to plan appropriately. If they don’t offer food, you might consider combining this with a picnic rehearsal dinner as we mentioned earlier.

7. Brunch Rehearsal Dinner

Brunch is a great option for just about any celebration. Nothing brings people together quite like a waffle bar, mimosas, and a tower of donuts. You can throw a brunch rehearsal meal right before or after the actual wedding rehearsal. Keep it sweet and simple with interactive food stations, bright decor, and upbeat background music. Be sure to specify clothing expectations on your invitations because brunch attire can often be casual or dressy.

8. Game Night

There’s nothing like a little friendly competition to raise everyone’s spirits and make all your guests feel connected. We absolutely love the game night rehearsal dinner idea with good food, good drinks, and board games. Up the ante by making it tournament style and giving small prizes to the night’s winners. To take it up a notch, consider catering your favorite local foods so nobody has to worry about cooking or clean-up.

If the group is big and you need to set up several gaming stations, pick games in different genres so everyone can find something they love. You and your fiancé should stay mindful to rotate to different tables throughout the night so you get a chance to play with everyone.

9. Backyard Barbecue Rehearsal Dinner

This is an oldie but a goodie for low-key couples, families on a budget, or anyone who just loves barbecue. All you’ll need are some picnic tables, centerpieces, simple place settings, and some lighting if the party will continue past sunset—think cafe lights strung through the trees or candles on every table. Decide whether you want your favorite BBQ joint to cater or have someone work the grill. Keep the menu simple and provide other activities, such as lawn games, to give your guests a reason to get up and mingle. And of course, what’s a backyard barbecue without a killer playlist?

Most wedding traditions are, well, traditional. But that doesn’t mean that they have to be boring. Stay true to the feelings that you and your fiance want to share for every wedding tradition. Keeping those thoughts and feelings in mind will ensure that you look back at those memories that created joy and laughter among your closest friends and family.

Now that you have the perfect rehearsal dinner plan, you need the perfect rehearsal dinner outfit. You’re in luck, we have a roundup of our favorite rehearsal dinner dresses and jumpsuits!

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Beat Wedding Planning Stress With These 10 Cool Tips

January 22, 2021 | riley

It’s a well-known fact that wedding planning is stressful. Whether you’ve always dreamed of large, over-the-top “I do’s,” or your intimate affair has spiraled into something far more complicated, it’s easy to let the preparations weigh heavy on you. You may soon realize that wedding planning–which should be a fun, memorable experience–is something you want to avoid at all costs. You’re already balancing work, relationships, paying the bills, and trying to find time for a social life. Now, add a major life event that requires a year of planning on top of that. 

Luckily, there are ways to calm your nerves and make the wedding planning process enjoyable. From stepping away for a bit to creating detailed to-do lists, these ten cool tips will help you stay afloat in the crazy world that is wedding planning.

Managing Wedding Planning Stress Is Important

We asked some of our incredibly talented vendors why it was important to manage wedding planning stress, and we love the responses we received. Photographer Tinsley & Co. said, “Stress can steal so many moments away from what should be a beautiful season. I want my couples to look back and remember their engagement with a full heart. I don’t want them to look back and think, ‘man, that sucked’ or ‘I’m so glad that’s over.’ It’s a once and a lifetime period for most. Enjoy it, don’t rush it, and don’t let stress bring the cloud over a light-filled chapter together.”

10 Tips To Beat Wedding Planning Stress

1. Prioritize

First things first–plan out exactly what details are most important to you for your dream wedding. Oftentimes couples get overwhelmed with planning the smaller details and lose sight of what matters most to them. Before you begin booking vendors or putting deposits down, make a list of your absolute must-haves. This could be a professional photographer, live florals, a farm-to-table meal, etc. You can then refer to this priorities list anytime you begin to feel stress creeping in after spending hours scrolling on Pinterest.

Repeatedly looking at this list will also help remind you to stay within your budget. You will be able to avoid overspending on items that are not necessary for your dream day. And the budget is one of the worst stressors couples face during the planning process.

2. Create A Detailed Budget

Speaking of budgets, putting together a detailed budget is essential. If anxiety stems from how much money you are spending, take time to clarify your budget. Create a high-level wedding budget and then take it a step further by breaking down that money into different categories. Creating a budget spreadsheet will help you track your spending as you go and allow you to see if there is any wiggle room or areas you may need to scale back.

We recommend also leaving about 5% of your budget aside for miscellaneous expenses that may come up as you go. Some surprise costs that you may run into include unexpected guests, vendor meals, gratuities, service charges, overtime costs, postage, insurance, and more.

3. Put Together A To-Do List

Wedding planning can feel like one giant mountain of tasks that you have to tackle. If you go into it without any game plan, you are going to feel overloaded very quickly. This can lead to anxiety and procrastination–which can then lead to more stress.

Consider using a physical wedding planner that includes checklists, worksheets, calendars, and more. This will keep you on track of your budget and timeline and will also keep your planning in one easy-to-access place. If you’re more of a cloud-based person, use apps like Trello or Milanote–both of which are also great for creating a wedding mood board as well. 

Along with a to-do list, make a done list. This will allow you to see all that you have accomplished and help to celebrate the small wins! 

Image by Emiliano Russo

4. Consider Hiring A Wedding Planner

If there is room in the budget, find yourself a wedding planner. They’ll help manage your budget, bring your vision to life, keep things organized, communicate with your other vendors, offer advice for any sticky situations that may arise, and help you relax on your big day. They handle it all.

Image by Jordan Voth

5. Don’t Be Afraid To Delegate Tasks

There is no shame in asking for help. While there is nothing wrong with being relentlessly self-sufficient, delegating tasks to your wedding party and other family members will help you stay sane. 

These people want to see you succeed, and they also want to make this process as easy as possible for you. Your wedding is about you, your partner, and your loved ones. Don’t feel like you have to do every task by yourself.

Image by Adri Mendez

6. Avoid Comparing Your Wedding To Others

Comparison is—and always will be—the thief of joy. While sites such as Instagram and Pinterest are great for wedding inspiration, they can also cause couples to feel as if their wedding isn’t good enough. Your wedding is a celebration of you and your partner, not a contest. 

If you find you’re continually beating yourself up because you can’t get the florals you saw on Instagram or the expensive neon sign you saw on Pinterest, consider taking a digital detox. These are tools to inspire, not to determine the worth of your wedding.

Image by Eleanor & Pete

7. Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff

Like many things in life, you will run into hiccups when wedding planning. And that’s okay. Imperfection is inevitable, so it’s important to embrace it. Once the wedding has come and gone, you’re not going to remember the fact that the florals you wanted weren’t in season or that you couldn’t find the exact table runners you saw online. Whenever you begin to nitpick and become overwhelmed, focus on the bigger picture.

8. Schedule Time Away From Planning And For Planning

One of the key ways to avoid succumbing to wedding pressure is to schedule times for and away from planning. Whether you want to plan Wine Wednesdays where you and your future spouse sit down and plan, or you save time for the weekends, scheduling time for wedding planning will help you separate planning time from your free time.

During your free time, focus on self-care–which looks different for everyone. It could be a walk outside, getting a manicure, writing in your journal, taking a hot bath, a gym session, or binge-watching The Office for the 100th time. Do whatever makes you happiest. We recommend having a stress-free space–such as a bedroom or office area–free of anything to do with wedding planning. You can use this as your escape to decompress and relax when the going gets tough.

When you aren’t planning, it’s also vital to schedule date nights with your future spouse. Stress can strain your relationship, which is why it is crucial that you spend quality time together. This will help you remember why you’re getting married in the first place.

9. Take Care Of Yourself

Taking care of yourself should always be your priority. This means prioritizing your physical and mental health. If you don’t feel good about yourself, you’ll go into planning with a negative headspace from the get-go.

This also means you shouldn’t deprive yourself. Treat yourself to ice cream dates, glasses of wine, and take-out in front of the television from time to time. Wedding planning is best when you’re striking a balance between working and unwinding.

Junebug Tip:

Take some time to break a sweat to help boost your endorphins and bust stress! Our friends at HipTrain offer online personal training that you can do from anywhere. With this option, you can choose to train with or without your partner.

Image by May Iosotaluno

10. Remember The Big Picture

The final and most important piece of advice we can give you is to remember the big picture. At the end of the day, your wedding is not about throwing the biggest party around. It’s about marrying the person you want to grow old with and celebrating that with your loved ones. Being stressed about the seating chart or dinner menu is not going to change the fact that you are tying the knot with the love of your life.

While wedding planning may never be completely stress-free, it’s essential to take care of yourself along the way. Whenever you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath, take a step back, and think about these ten tips. To help keep your spirits high, throw on this wedding planning playlist that will keep you motivated, and have yourself a little dance party!

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French Bohemian Wedding at Les Domaines de Patras

September 23, 2020 | riley

Every wild and free-spirited fiance needs to see Sanddy and Simon’s boho wedding at Les Domaines de Patras! Their French wedding–put together by Daylove Events–has everything from dramatic floral arrangements put together by Menthe Sauvage to vintage rugs and colored smoke bombs. We’re obsessed with Sanddy’s custom-made Elise Martimort gown that she paired with another customized piece—an incredible leather jacket for the end of the night.  

See Free People meets the French countryside below with the gorgeous photos that Les Bandits captured. 

The Couple:

Sanddy and Simon

The Wedding:

Les Domaines de Patras, Solerieux, France

A Custom-Made Wedding Dress

I wanted to feel like myself, so I chose a simple dress without lace or embroidery. The dress was very airy, and it suited my style (plunging neckline, slit up the leg, wide openings under the arms). My inspiration was the dress worn by Edita Vilkeviciute during her wedding in Italy. So I decided to have a custom dress made. After giving her an idea of what I wanted, Élise Martimort–the designer–gave me a sketch in 3 minutes during our first meeting. I knew it was my dress. It was completely unique! I wore it until the end of the night. I didn’t want to change my outfit! You only wear your wedding dress once, so I wanted to make the most of it.

Bohemian Wedding Day Vibes

For the decorations and style of our wedding, Simon gave me carte blanche. He trusted me completely and knew how much I wanted to plan it. I wanted a kinfolk/boho style for the decor–with fresh and dried flowers, lots of plants, and wood. Refined and modern style was the focus.

Why Les Domaines de Patras

We live in Paris, and we were looking for a venue in the south of France. Thanks to our wedding planner–Daylove Event–we found the perfect place, Les Domaines de Patras. From the first time we saw it, we knew. The place is magic! The owners, Kety and Eric–so adorable–make the place feel so warm. The barn–our reception location–matched the style of our wedding perfectly. It didn’t require much decoration. It was perfect for dining and partying. We wanted the majority of our guests to stay at the wedding venue, which was possible thanks to Les Domaines de Patras’ guest rooms.

The Wedding Favors

We had a hangover kit prepared for each guest. For a three-day long wedding, this kit was handy. On the dinner table, women received a small vial of olive oil, and men got a small jar of honey. For my wedding party and our mothers, we had a glass bell made with various dried flowers inside.

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography & Videography – Les Bandits
Event Planning – Daylove Event
Venue – Les Domaines de Patras
Floral Design – Menthe Sauvage
Catering & Cake – Entre Amis Traiteur
Live Music – The Beau Ties, Jane Acoustic Duo
Invitation Design – Cotton Bird
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling – Billy and Clyde
Wedding Dress – Elise Martimort
Groom’s Apparel – Faubourg Saint Supplice
Rings – Mauboussin
Rentals – Velvet Rendez-Vous

 

Congratulations to Sanddy and Simon on their boho wedding at Les Domaines de Patras! And thank you to Les Bandits for sharing their special day with Junebug. To see more French boho wedding inspo, check out Ismaëlla and Aurélie’s Kinfolk-Inspired Wedding at Ferme Gerquesalle!

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This Unique Ace Hotel New Orleans Wedding Has the Most Epic Colorful Details

August 16, 2020 | riley

Shannon and Sean’s unique Ace Hotel New Orleans wedding is the definition of a party! With the help of Nice Day Events, the couple’s day was full of modern touches, neon lights, and a whole lot of groovy disco details including disco ball-shaped cups as wedding favors. Not to mention Shannon’s epic Prabal Gurung gown that was complete with ‘70s-inspired bell sleeves which she wore with green velvet studded Miu Miu platform heels. Hannah Pickle nailed capturing the playful yet sophisticated vibe of the day.

Nice Day Events’ Katy Moody on the Special Day

“Shannon and Sean’s loved ones joined them for a night of revelry to celebrate their marriage in New Orleans, their way. The bride wore an amazing Prabal Gurung gown, with dramatic full pleated sleeves, styled with green velvet platforms, a sparkly green manicure, and purple eyeshadow. Shannon and Sean’s vision for their wedding was always authentic to who they are; their playful yet sophisticated style, their love of Prince, and raucous sense of humor that prevailed throughout the night. 

After a second line parade through the streets of New Orleans, the couple surprised their guests with a choreographed dance routine to Britney Spear’s “Everytime” as their first dance. Shannon danced with her father next, choosing to honor their relationship by *getting down* to a New Orlean’s classic, Lil Wayne & Birdman’s “Stuntin’ Like My Daddy”. Lush tropicals, Prince lyrics, a huge fabric chandelier + disco ball perfectly accompanied the evening’s clear mission of fun (and love).”

The Couple:

Shannon and Sean

The Wedding:

Ace Hotel New Orleans, Louisiana

Shop similar heels: ASOS Nutshell Platform Heels ($48); Imagine by Vince Camuto Mika Platform Heels ($194.95); Milanoo Suede Peep Toe Heels ($54.99)

The Prabal Gurung Dress

With our decor being loud, bright, and electric, I wanted a look that was sleek and clean but still had dramatic elements. I found the most awesome Prabal Gurung dress with overstated pleated sleeves, paired it with studded green velvet Miu Miu platform sandals, and a green foil manicure to match (by Paintbox in NYC). Since I planned on keeping my maiden name, I had a nameplate ring made of Sean’s last name, which he didn’t see until the day of. That is definitely my favorite accessory.

Wedding Day Vibes

First and foremost, it was important for us to have a really killer party. Secondly, our wedding was a destination and we wanted our guests to fully experience the unique culture of New Orleans and everything the city has to offer. So, we worked with Hily and Katie at Nice Day to incorporate southern charm with clean modern elements, pops of neon, awesome music, and decadence that can only be found in New Orleans.

Shop similar cups: Disco Ball Tumbler ($11.16); 19 oz Pink Disco Ball Tumbler 4-Pack ($39.99); Personalized Rhinestone Disco Ball Cup ($13.50)

Most Memorable Part of the Day

The Second Line Parade. We paraded our guests down the streets of New Orleans with a brass band, while onlookers took photos, shouted congratulations, gave us high fives, and I even got a hug. And how often do you get to have your own parade?!

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Hannah Pickle
Event Planning – Nice Day
Venue – Ace Hotel New Orleans
Floral Design – We Are Gathered
Officiant – Waning Moon Weddings
Live Music – Lagniappe Brass Brand
Invitation Design – Mama Sauce
Makeup Artist – Sarah Walsh
Hair Styling – Ali Vasques
Wedding Dress – Prabal Gurung
Bridal Accessories – Miu Miu
Groom’s Apparel – Ted Baker
Rings – Bliss Lau
Rentals – ELEMENT

 

Congrats again to Shannon and Sean on their unique Ace Hotel New Orleans wedding! We’re so glad that Hannah Pickle was there to capture the free-spirited disco-inspired festivities. Searching for more groovy wedding inspo? Check out Kelsey and Zach’s Factory Atlanta wedding complete with sequins and disco balls! 

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Effortlessly Beautiful Waterfall Elopement in Bali

June 9, 2020 | brooke

We can’t imagine anything more intimate and romantic than saying your vows with a Bali waterfall behind you. Anna and Igor’s effortlessly beautiful waterfall elopement in Bali has captivated our hearts! We’re absolutely blown away by the beauty of their ceremony backdrop both the florals WedBali created for a perfect circle arch to the natural beauty of the water flowing behind them. This couple’s style also fit the day so perfectly with Anna looking stunning in a boho Rara Avis gown with hints of color and Igor’s all-white casual groom style. If you’ve ever dreamed of an adventure elopement somewhere picturesque, these photos by Borodenok Olga & Vladimir will drive you wild!

The Couple:

Anna & Igor

The Wedding:

Tibumana Waterfall, Bali, Indonesia

We couldn’t have imagined it better. Ceremony at the waterfall around the jungle birds singing water noise, an insanely beautiful arch of fresh flowers in the background, the whole atmosphere, the color in which we plunged, it is simply impossible to express in words. It was a magical day for us.

The most important thing about wedding planning for us was to choose the right wedding agency. Now we understand this more than ever, because the subsequent choice of the location of the ceremony, the photographer and videographer took place with their direct participation. Thanks to the advice and professional opinion of WedBali, we were able to choose the best photographers and videographer for our wedding. Despite the distance of 10000 kilometers, completely trusting WedBali, on the day of the wedding ceremony, everything was organized to the smallest detail.

RECOMMENDED READING: 6 Boho Bridal Hairstyles That are So Free-Spirited Chic

Working with the organizer Alice was a pleasure, despite the time difference, she was always in touch, helped, advised, and always told us, “Trust our agency, we will make a celebration for you that you will remember for a lifetime, we were required to relax and enjoy the process.” And we fully trusted the organizer and the team of real professionals. We did not regret for a second that we applied to this agency, on the day of the ceremony we only enjoyed the fairy tale created for us. We had two photographers Vladimir and Olga, we are delighted with them, great guys and super professionals, it was a pleasure to work with them. And we can not fail to mention our videographer Alexander, only his work hooked us more than all of the proposed videographers in Bali. He has a certain style in his work. We were hooked. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Borodenok Olga & Vladimir
Event Planning & Floral Design – WedBali
Ceremony Venue – Tibumana Waterfall
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling – Valeriya Kudryashova
Wedding Dress – Rara Avis
Rings – DimKaGifts

 

Congratulations, Anna and Igor, and many thanks to WedBali for sharing their elopement with us!

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Everything You Need for a Cozy Facetime Photo Shoot

April 28, 2020 | nicole

photo by Brooke Taelor Photography

Ready to shake up your quarantine with something fun? Today we’re sharing all the tips and tricks you need for a successful Facetime photo shoot. What’s that? Facetime sessions are the latest trend in quarantine photography that allow you to safely commemorate this unique time in your relationship. In light of wanting to avoid front porch sessions, which can ultimately be dangerous, many wedding photographers are offering 30-minute photo shoots using Facetime. Whether you’re married, engaged, co-isolating, or even just want some solo photos (hello, boudoir shoot!), Facetime photos are a great way to capture your experience at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How does a Facetime photo shoot work?

Rather than a screenshot, Facetime has a feature that allows you to snap an actual photo of what you see on your screen. Photographers are using this technology to help them document your memories without having to even leave their house! Responsible and creative? We’re all about it!

Once you’re on the call, your photographer will ask you to do a quick tour of your home to get an idea of the space and lighting. From there, they will give you all the direction and posing guidance you need to take some seriously gorgeous and intimate photos — all through your phone! After your call, your photographer will edit the photos in their own style and deliver your gallery for you to share and cherish.

Facetime photos can be great for couples, families, or even just for you! We know this has been a difficult time, from cancelled plans to being apart from loved ones. Getting photos done not only gives you a way to look back on how you spent these uncertain days, but also gives you something to celebrate in the moment when it may feel like there’s not a lot to celebrate.

To help you feel prepared going into your virtual photo sesh, we’re walking you through everything you need to know about nailing your Facetime photo shoot at home!

P.S. Are you a photographer wanting to offer Facetime sessions but don’t know how to get started? This post is for you!

photo by By Mari Photography

1. Book your dream photographer

Is there a photographer you’ve always wanted to work with? With a Facetime session, you don’t have to worry about travel fees, so you can hire your favorite local photographer or your dream photographer who lives on the other side of the country — or the world! Need help choosing the right photographer fit? Check out our vendor directory of the best wedding photographers from around the world!

photo by Emily Kaar Photography

2. Ensure you’ve got great light

The key to great photos is great light. While your photographer would usually do the work of scouting out perfect light for your photos, you know your home best! Pay attention to the light in your home at different times throughout the day to see how the light changes in different rooms you want to use for your shoot. Schedule your session around when the light is best in your house or apartment — not every home is well lit at the same time!

Need a little extra help in the lighting department? A ring light can brighten your space with clean, even light that you can control depending on where you want to shoot! You may not be able to move the sun to shine into your favorite corner, but a ring light on a stand will do the trick!

SHOP RING LIGHTS: Ring Light Kit:18″/48cm ($89.99); 8″ Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand & Cell Phone Holder ($54.99); 10″ Selfie Ring Light with 50″ Extendable Tripod Stand & Flexible Phone Holder ($69.99)

photo by AB Stills Photography

3. Practice positioning your phone

With your photographer not physically present, you’re going to need a way to position your phone for them to take your photos. This is not a selfie situation, y’all! If you’ve always wanted to have one of those cool tripods for your iPhone, now is the perfect time to get one. (Our favorite options are linked below!)

Next, think about what you can set your phone or tripod on in your home to achieve different angles. Practice putting your phone on a shelf, coffee table, etc. to see what photos look like from a variety of perspectives. Sometimes a stack of books or shoebox can help you get the shot!

Bonus tip: Have you ever noticed that the quality of your selfies is lower if you use your front-facing camera? The same is true for photos taken in Facetime, so we recommend practicing photos using your phone’s main camera on the back of your phone. This will help your photographer get the best possible photos with the technology available!

SHOP PHONE TRIPODS: Flexible Phone Tripod with Wireless Remote Shutter ($19.99); 51″ Extendable Tripod Stand with Bluetooth Remote for iPhone & Android Phone ($29.99); 12 Inch Flexible Cell Phone Tripod Stand Holder with Wireless Remote Shutter & Universal Phone Mount ($23.99); Portable and Adjustable Camera Stand Holder with Wireless Remote and Universal Clip ($17.95); 50-inch Extendable and Lightweight Aluminum Tripod Stand with Bluetooth Remote Shutter and Phone Clip ($26.99)

photo by Hey Tay Photography

4. Curate a cozy backdrop

You are, of course, the star of your photos! But that doesn’t mean you can’t show off your personal style through the backdrops of your photos! Spice up your space with texture and color using art, shelving, plants, and more. Hanging some string lights adds a touch of magic to not only your room but the photos too! We recommend choosing 1-3 backdrops in your home — like the nook where you eat breakfast together, your favorite reading corner, or your bedroom — and styling a vignette in each that highlights your personality using some of your favorite things.

Looking for a few finishing touches to style your backdrop? Here’s some home decor we’re loving right now!

The Little Avocado Macrame Wall Hanging via Etsy

36″ x 10″ Artificial Snake Plant in Standing Planter via Target

Magical Thinking Woven Wall Mirror via Urban Outfitters

Round Pintuck Pillow via Urban Outfitters

Explicit Design Pinky Swear Art Print via Urban Outfitters

Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant via West Elm

Crescent Moon Wall Shelf via Urban Outfitters

LED Curtain String Light Warm White via Target

Curious Prints Vintage Cactus Illustration Pull Down Chart via Etsy

Willow Woven Base Hanging Planter via Target

RECOMMENDED READING: 17 Relationship Tips for Coming Out of Quarantine Stronger Than Ever

photo by Summer Leigha Photography

5. Dress for the occasion

Alright, it’s time to change out of last night’s pajamas into your cutest pair of sweats! Just kidding…unless? We think a great way to capture this unique time in your life is by leaning into your stay-at-home wardrobe and putting together an outfit that’s ultra-cozy and cute. If your current rotation of leggings and oversized tees could use a little boost, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite loungewear for her and for him below!

Of course, you can also get all dressed up for the occasion and rock the outfits you planned for your pre-COVID engagement session or get dressed to the nines in your fanciest attire for a cheeky juxtaposition with your setting. What’s most important is that you feel like yourself!

Bonus tip: keep in mind that you’ll be snuggling up in poses you’re maybe not used to having photographed, so be sure to check your outfit in the mirror both sitting and standing so you know you’ll feel confident in whatever you choose to wear.

For Her:

Show Off Set via Free People

Nightbird Burnout Kimono via Free People

FP One Adella Bralette via Free People

Aerie Play Pocket High-Waisted Legging via Aerie

Estelle Slate Blue Ribbed Lettuce Edge Romper via Lulu’s

Cropped Baby Bamboo Tee via Free People

Cashmere-Blend Shorts via H&M

For Him:

Slim Fit Round-neck T-shirt via H&M

Regular Fit Sweatshorts via H&M

Patterned Resort Shirt via H&M

Slim Fit Joggers via H&M

Slim Fit Henley Shirt via H&M

Basic Joggers via H&M

RECOMMENDED READING: Bridal Loungewear for Comfy Wedding Planning at Home

photo by Chelsea Hafner Photography

6. Give yourself something to do with your hands

Last but not least, give yourselves something to do! Lifestyle sessions are best when they capture you in your true state. Plus, if you’re doing something in your photos, you’re more likely to appear natural and be less worried about what to do with your hands!

Here’s a list of “prop” ideas based around your normal home activities:

  • Sip coffee from your favorite mugs
  • Make cocktails in pretty glassware
  • Read from the books on your nightstand
  • Share a bowl of cereal or ice cream
  • Bake cookies in your kitchen
  • Play a card game or put together a puzzle
  • Snuggle up with a blanket (or your pet!)
  • Put on a record and dance in your living room

Feeling stumped? Here’s a few products we’re loving for in-home photo sessions!

Cold Hand Ceramics White Speckled Mug via Etsy

Areaware Little Puzzle Thing via Urban Outfitters

Aden Tufted Throw Blanket via Urban Outfitters

Travel Backgammon Game via Anthropologie

Enjoy 10 oz Retro Mug via Urban Outfitters

Sunnylife Lucite Tic-Tac-Toe Game via Anthropologie

Looking for a soundtrack for your Facetime photo shoot? Check out our wedding planning playlist for something chill and energizing and our roundup of cocktail hour playlists for any mood!

photo by Irina Konkova

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10 Wedding Planning Tasks You Can Tackle from Home

April 1, 2020 | brooke


photo by Maggie Grace Photography

It’s no secret that couples around the world have been spending much more time at home lately due to the COVID-19 crisis.  While we hope you and your partner are enjoying lots of quality time together, game nights, and Netflix binges, we know you probably can’t help but think about wedding planning tasks right now. It’s not a bad idea—since you can officially plan your wedding “at work” without getting caught by your boss—but you didn’t hear it from us!

If you’re unsure of where to start, here are ten wedding planning tasks you can tackle from home:

  • Get Organized
  • Practice Mindfulness and Connection
  • Create Your Wedding Registry
  • DIY Something for Your Day
  • Try a Make-Up or Hair Tutorial
  • Online Shop for Attire and Decor
  • Work on Your Vows or Ceremony Readings
  • Write Letters to Your Guests
  • Practice Your First Dance (or Just Dance!)
  • Make a Reception Playlist

Get Organized

Wedding planning is no easy feat! Most of you probably have felt like it’s a part-time job at some point, and we feel you. With the extra time at home, it might be the perfect time to take a step back and get everything organized! Create a spreadsheet of all your vendors and their contact information, determine what your goals are, make a checklist—whatever will help keep you on-track, now is the time to put those systems in place.

RECOMMENDED READING: The Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide – A Free Step-by-Step Roadmap


photo by Lorenzo Accardi; venue Les Domaines de Patras; design and floral by Fleurs de fée; rentals from Jolibazaar; see more of this real wedding here!

Practice Mindfulness and Connection

Extra time at home with your person means more time to connect with each other. Use this time to talk about your wedding, your relationship, your dreams and goals as a couple. Notice your love languages and how you’re bonding during this time. When you’re laying on the couch, how do you snuggle together? These are not only sweet little things to notice and appreciate during this time, but they’ll help when it comes time to take wedding portraits or engagement photos!

RECOMMENDED READING: 10 Ways to be More Present on Your Wedding Day


photo by Alejandra Loaiza; see more of this wedding inspiration shoot here!

Create Your Wedding Registry

We know you might not be able to go to a store right now (and even if you can, we don’t recommend it), so take that registry shopping online! Your guests will also appreciate the convenience of online ordering and shipping. Plus, this is a fun project for both partners to work on together while dreaming of all the fun things to furnish their home, deck out their kitchen, and more!

Junebug’s wedding registry resources:


photo by Nicole Ashley Photography

DIY Something for Your Day

Even if you don’t feel like the most “crafty” bride, there’s always something you can DIY to add a little personal touch to your wedding decor! From signage to photo backdrops to tie-dye napkins, we know you and your person can get creative with do-it-yourself projects. There are even some online class sites, like Brit + Co that are offering select classes for free during the COVID-19 quarantine. Plus, we have tons of inspiration from our rockstar real brides!

Get inspired by these Junebug DIY real weddings:


photo by Catalina Jean Photography; see more of this real wedding here!

Try a Make-Up or Hair Tutorial

While you might not be planning on doing your hair and make-up on the big day, learning these skill can never hurt! Plus, it can be a ton of fun. There are many wedding hair and make-up artists offering virtual lessons, as well as Instagram stories and YouTube videos! Even if you don’t execute on the big day, it could be your rehearsal dinner or engagement photo look!

Get your hair and make-up inspiration here:


photo by Meg Brooke Photography, makeup by The Goddess Glow, wedding dress by One Day Bridal via En Blanc

SHOP SIMILAR FACE GLITTER: Holographic Stars Cosmetic Glitter ($7.99); Superstar Chunky Gold Glitter ($7.50); Holographic Flake Cosmetic Sequins Glitter ($9.99); Rose Gold Chunky Glitter ($6.99)

Online Shop For Attire and Decor

We love a good online shopping spree. And if you’re planning a wedding, you have lots to shop for! The Junebug team members are experts at finding the absolute best products—from wedding shoes to reception table decor—that you can shop for right from the comfort of home. Bonus: Send these links to your wedding party so they can join the hunt for decor, accessories, and dresses!

Junebug’s best online shopping resources: 


photo by Karra Leigh Photo; see more of this wedding inspiration shoot here!

Work on Your Vows or Ceremony Readings

If you’re feeling up for a more emotional activity, working on your vows or ceremony readings might be the perfect way to spend a few hours of your time. This is usually one of tasks couples wait until the last minute to plan, so you’ll be ahead of the game and can feel confident knowing you put a lot of thought into these important aspects of your wedding!

Junebug’s best ceremony resources:


photo by Jordan Voth

Write Letters to Your Guests

If you already have all your “essential” wedding planning done, now’s the time to add some extra elements! We love when couples write letters to their guests to include in welcome bags or on their dinner place settings.

Looking for the best stationary? Try looking on sites where you might also purchase wedding invitations.


photo by Imaj Gallery; stationary by Veronica Halim; see more of this real wedding here!

Practice Your First Dance (or Just Dance!) to Your First Dance Song

You and your partner may already be practicing all the latest Tik Tok dances—and if you’re not, we highly recommend it. Now is also the perfect time to practice your first dance together! Turn on that song and dance in your kitchen. Not only will it help you prepare for the big day, but it’s a super sweet little activity to do together. You’ll be surprised at how sentimental it might feel.


photo by Nikk Nguyen Photo; see more of this real wedding here!

Make a Reception Playlist full of Wedding Music

If you’re already dancing in the kitchen, why not just make it a full on party and find the songs that will get your guests on the dance floor? Start a playlist on Apple Music or Spotify with your favorite songs to dance to. Your DJ will likely also ask you for a list of songs you don’t want to play at the wedding, so it’s helpful to add those to a list, as well!

We hope these wedding planning tasks have sparked joy, excitement, and give you a little something to work on while you’re at home over these next few weeks (and beyond). Sending all of our love to you and yours!


photo by Maggie Grace Photography

 

 

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8 Tips for Nailing Your Engagement Photos

November 22, 2019 | riley

Engagement photos can be a nerve-wracking process, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera. Whether you’re engaged already or you think the big question may be coming soon, we want to share the tips we’ve learned over the years to help you feel comfortable and nail your engagement session. From what to wear to where to go, keep these eight things in mind before your upcoming photoshoot!

Why You Should Take Engagement Photos

If you’re reading this post, there’s a good chance you’ve already decided to take engagement photos. But if you’re still on the fence, that’s alright too. There are a lot of reasons to take engagement photos–it helps you get to know your wedding photographer, gives you photos for your save the dates and invitations, and it’s something that you can look back on for years. Not convinced? Don’t take our word for it, listen to photographers Olivia & Dan Photography.

“Engagement photos are an amazing way to foster a strong relationship with your wedding photographer. You’ll get a chance to see how they work, and your photographer will also be able to gauge how you are as a couple, how you connect, and the best way to capture that. Some couples are quiet and intimate, while others are very energetic and vivacious. The more you know about each other, the more natural and relaxed you’ll feel on your wedding day!”

1. Wear Something You’re Comfortable In

This is by far one of the most important tips we can give you. If you wear clothes that are too tight or clingy, you’ll potentially spend your whole session picking at them or covering yourself up. That’s why choosing outfits that make you feel like a million bucks is key. If you purchase something new, take it out for a test run–hello, date night excuse–with plenty of time to launder it before your session in case of a spill or other mishap. You also want to think about how it’ll photograph during your session.

We asked some of our wonderful Junebug photographers for their advice on choosing the perfect outfit and we loved what Katelyn Mallett had to say, “My biggest advice is comfort over everything. If you never wear a suit but are considering it for your engagements because it’s what you have seen, just skip it and wear that band tee that you love. These photos are representative of your own personalities, and you should feel like yourselves and dress like yourselves, too.”

2. Steam Or Iron The Outfits Ahead Of Time

Speaking of what you wear, be sure to de-wrinkle your clothes before your session. A photographer’s least favorite question is “can you just Photoshop that out later?” Oftentimes having things like wrinkles retouched in your photos comes at an additional cost per image. Save yourself the stress and take care of that ahead of time.

Image by Maya Lora Photo

3. Consider Professional Hair And Makeup For Your Shoot

If you’ve never done makeup for photos or you aren’t really sure what to do with your hair, you may want to head to the salon before your engagement photos.

Photos require slightly more saturated makeup than what you may be used to so that you don’t look washed out. If you haven’t done your hair and makeup consultation with your wedding day stylist yet, this could be a great time to schedule it. You’ll knock out two birds with one makeup brush.

4. Make A Day Out Of It

One of the best pieces of advice we’ve heard is to make your engagement session part of a day-long date. Not only does this give you plenty of time for photos without feeling rushed, but starting your day in this mindset helps you feel connected with your partner as you head into the photoshoot. Start your day with brunch or coffee at your favorite spot and invite your photographer to meet you there to grab a few shots before changing locations.

5. Set The Scene

Location is everything, so before heading to your neighborhood park for engagement photos, think about what you really love as a couple and what places reflect that. If you love making coffee together and snuggling on the couch with some good ol’ Netflix, maybe an at-home session is right for you. If you’re an adventurous couple who spends your weekends hiking, consider taking photos in the forest or mountains, hiking gear in tow. Don’t be afraid to incorporate your favorite activities.

We love what Junebug member The Stars Inside had to say about location scouting, “When it comes to choosing the location, opt for a place that has a profound meaning to you both as a couple, like a neighborhood you consider home, or a place that marked a special turning point for your relationship–a first date, a first “I love you, a proposal, etc. Or you could simply choose somewhere with lovely views that reflects your identity as a couple in some way–an adventurous mountainscape, a twinkling city skyline, or a peaceful beachfront (a great excuse for a mini weekend break maybe?). Either way, make sure you choose somewhere where you know you will feel comfortable laughing, cuddling, and generally interacting easily with the space.”

Is a special place not coming to mind? Get inspired with our guide on how to set the scene for your engagement photos.

6. Schedule The Session Around The Sun

You may be familiar with the term “golden hour” aka the beautiful time of day just before the sun sets. This is when you want to shoot if you’re looking for that warm light in your photos. Planning ahead of time using your weather app to find out when sunset is ensures that you have plenty of time to shoot before the light is gone.

The early afternoon may sound like a good time for photos schedule-wise, but keep in mind that the light is much harsher at this time because the sun is directly overhead. Early morning light can also be magical, so if you’re a morning person, consider getting to your first location just as the sun starts to rise.

Image by Shutterfreak

7. Hire A Professional Photographer

This should go without saying, but you’re going to get the best photos by hiring a professional to take your engagement photos. Your engagement is such a short and special chapter in your life and your relationship, and you deserve to commemorate that time with beautiful photos together.

If possible, we highly recommend booking your engagement photos with your wedding photographer. This gives you an opportunity to get comfortable and connect with your photographer prior to your big day, making for even better photos from your wedding.

8. When In Doubt, Kiss It Out

If you haven’t spent a lot of time in front of a camera (and let’s face it–who has?), you may be pretty nervous or become stiff. A quick way to loosen up while still getting great photos is to go in for a kiss. This can help you connect with your partner and forget the camera is even around, which makes for more natural photos anyway.

You’re officially photo-ready! Remember to relax and have fun, and we promise you, your engagement photos will come out beautifully. Now that you’ve tackled photos, it’s time to take on the world that is wedding planning. We understand that it can be overwhelming, to say the least, which is why we’ve put together the ultimate wedding planning guide!

Image by Jes Workman

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