Stress-Free Wedding Day Tips for Beautiful Photos
Your wedding day should be one of the happiest,
most memorable days of your life—and that means keeping stress to a minimum! Over the years, we’ve learned a few tried-and-true strategies to help couples enjoy every moment while ensuring their photos turn out beautifully.
Here are five essential tips for a stress-free wedding day:
1. Build Extra Time Into Your Schedule
The best way to reduce stress is to give yourself plenty of wiggle room. Add buffer time between events like getting ready, traveling to the ceremony, and family photos. This allows you to relax and enjoy the day, even if there are unexpected delays. Plus, extra time lets us capture those precious candid moments that happen when you’re not feeling rushed.
2. Delegate Tasks to Trusted People
Your wedding day isn’t the time to take on every responsibility yourself. Assign specific tasks to friends, family members, or your wedding planner. Whether it’s managing the timeline, keeping the bridal party on track, or handling last-minute vendor questions, having a team to support you ensures everything runs smoothly.
3. Pack a Wedding Day Emergency Kit
A small emergency kit can be a lifesaver if the unexpected happens. We recommend including items like:
• Safety pins and a sewing kit
• Stain remover and tissues
• Band-Aids and pain relievers
• Snacks and water bottles
• A phone charger
Having these essentials on hand means you’ll be ready for anything, no matter what surprises the day might bring!
4. Prioritize Self-Care
Don’t forget to take care of yourself! Start your day with a light, nutritious breakfast, and sip water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Taking care of your physical needs will help you stay energized and focused so you can truly enjoy your wedding day.
5. Be Present and Embrace Imperfections
No wedding day is perfect, and that’s what makes it special! Focus on the joy of the moment rather than worrying about small hiccups. When you’re present and having fun, it shows in your photos. Remember, the little imperfections often become the best stories to laugh about later!
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Photographer
We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from helping you craft the perfect timeline to making sure you feel relaxed in front of the camera. When you trust us to handle the details, you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love!
Start Planning Your Stress-Free Day
Your wedding day should be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. With a little preparation and the right team by your side, you can have the stress-free celebration you’ve been dreaming of.
Ready to make your wedding day magical? Contact us to start planning your photography experience today!
Wedding Photography Timeline: Sample + Expert Tips
Your wedding day is a whirlwind of joy, love, and celebration. The best way to ensure it runs smoothly—and to get the most out of your photography—is with a well-thought-out timeline. Today, we’re sharing a sample wedding day photography timeline, along with tips to help you structure your day for stress-free photos and unforgettable memories.
Why a Photography Timeline is Essential
A wedding photography timeline is more than just a schedule; it’s a guide that ensures every important moment and detail is beautifully captured. A solid timeline:
• Keeps your day running smoothly.
• Ensures you maximize your photo opportunities.
• Reduces stress by eliminating surprises.
• Helps everyone, from vendors to family, stay on the same page.
Sample Wedding Day Photography Timeline
This sample is based on an 8-hour photography package and can be customized to fit your unique day:
1. Getting Ready (2 hours)
• Details (30 minutes): Capturing your dress, shoes, rings, bouquet, and invitation suite.
• Getting Ready Candids (1 hour): Photos of you, your bridal party, and loved ones prepping for the day.
• Final Touches (30 minutes): Getting dressed, putting on your jewelry, and those emotional first looks with your parents or bridal party.
2. First Look + Portraits (1.5 hours)
• First Look (30 minutes): A private moment for you and your partner to see each other before the ceremony.
• Couple Portraits (30 minutes): Romantic shots of just the two of you.
• Bridal Party Photos (30 minutes): Group photos with your bridal party.
3. Ceremony (30 minutes)
• Coverage of the processional, vows, first kiss, and recessional.
4. Family Formals (30 minutes)
• Organized group shots with immediate and extended family members.
5. Golden Hour Portraits (30 minutes)
• Romantic, sunlit portraits of you and your partner during the golden hour (just before sunset).
6. Reception (3 hours)
• Grand Entrance + First Dance (30 minutes): Capturing your entrance and special dances.
• Candids (1.5 hours): Guests mingling, dancing, and toasting.
• Cake Cutting + Exit (1 hour): Formal moments like cutting the cake and your grand exit.
Tips for Structuring Your Timeline
1. Build Buffers Into Your Schedule
Add extra time for transitions, unexpected delays, and travel between locations. It’s better to have time to spare than to feel rushed.
2. Communicate with Your Vendors
Share your timeline with key vendors like your photographer, planner, and DJ to ensure everyone is aligned.
3. Prioritize Golden Hour
Schedule portraits during the golden hour for the most flattering and romantic light. Your photographer will thank you!
4. Keep Family Formals Organized
Prepare a shot list in advance and assign a family member to help gather people. This keeps things efficient and stress-free.
5. Stay Flexible
Things may not go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! A little flexibility goes a long way in keeping your day joyful.
Your Wedding Day, Your Way
Every wedding is unique, and your photography timeline should reflect your personal style, preferences, and priorities. When you work with us, we’ll guide you through the planning process to create a customized timeline that fits your vision perfectly.
If you’d like to discuss your wedding day timeline or have questions about photography coverage, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to help!
Ready to Start Planning?
Contact us today to build your perfect wedding photography timeline!
Rainy Day Wedding Celebration at RT Lodge
Ally & Tyler’s Mustard Yellow RT Lodge Wedding: A Beautiful Rainy Day Celebration
Ally and Tyler’s wedding at RT Lodge on September 12, 2020, was nothing short of magical, despite some unexpected weather surprises. With a color palette of mustard yellow, rich fall décor, and a talented vendor team, this day turned out to be a beautiful celebration of love and adaptability.
A Change in Plans
As with many outdoor weddings, the weather had its own plans. What started as a calm morning quickly turned into a downpour. The original ceremony location had to be moved when the skies opened up, and the team from Windsor and Willow sprang into action. With quick thinking, they relocated the ceremony decor and chairs to the tent that had already been set up for the reception. While the rain caused delays, it couldn’t dampen the spirit of the day. In fact, the rain added an unexpected charm, turning the ceremony into a cozy and intimate moment.
An Intimate Ceremony
Though the weather forced some adjustments, it ultimately created a more personal experience for Ally and Tyler. The rain-soaked surroundings, combined with the warmth of the tent, made for an intimate and heartfelt ceremony. Their vows felt even more poignant as raindrops softly tapped on the roof, providing a serene soundtrack to their special moment.
Fall Décor & Mustard Yellow Vibes
Ally and Tyler’s wedding was a true reflection of autumnal beauty, with a standout mustard yellow color theme woven throughout the day. The fall décor featured lush florals and beautiful, warm tones designed by Windsor and Willow, enhancing the overall aesthetic. From the floral arrangements to the seating and signage, everything was perfectly curated to create an inviting, cozy atmosphere.
Sweet Treats and Special Details
Catie Cakes provided a showstopping naked drip cake adorned with fresh fruit, a simple yet elegant design that was as delicious as it was beautiful. The cake, along with the fall-inspired décor, added to the rustic charm of the reception.
A whimsical horse and carriage from Coytee Farm gave the day a fairytale feel, while the ambient music of harpist Elizabeth Farr created a romantic atmosphere. Every vendor played a key role in bringing this day to life, from the carefully selected rentals by McCabe Rentals and All Occasions Party Rentals to the stunning handwritten stationery by Wallace Paper Co.
The Perfect Vendor Team
A wedding day is only as flawless as the vendors behind it, and Ally and Tyler’s day was no exception. Here’s a list of the talented professionals who made their celebration truly unforgettable:
Venue/Catering/Bar/Planning: @rtlodge
Florals, Design & Planning: @windsorandwillow
Sound/Lighting/DJ: @godjogle
Rentals: @mccaberentals and @aopartyrentals
Hair: @salonvisageknoxville
MU: @sb_bridal
Dress: @laceandglambridal
Lettering: @elmslettering
Stationary: @wallacepaperco
Horse & Carriage: @coyteefarmvenue
Arbor: @marshmadedesign
Harpist: Elizabeth Farr
Film lab: @photovisionprints
A Day to Remember
In the end, Ally and Tyler’s wedding was a truly beautiful. The rain only added to the story, making the day even more memorable. Their wedding at RT Lodge was not just about the beautiful mustard yellow accents or the fall-inspired décor, but about the way their love shone through, no matter the circumstances.
For those considering RT Lodge for their wedding day, it’s a venue that offers both beauty and flexibility, even when the weather throws a curveball. Ally and Tyler’s special day is proof that sometimes, the most unexpected moments turn into the most cherished memories.
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For more information about hosting your wedding at RT Lodge.
Sweet & Casual RT Lodge Winter Engagement - Ally + Tyler
Ally & Tyler’s Sweet and Casual RT Lodge Winter Engagement Session
Winter engagements have a certain magic, and Ally & Tyler’s session at the charming RT Lodge captured all of it. Nestled in the heart of Maryville, Tennessee, RT Lodge is a hidden gem for couples looking to celebrate their love in an intimate and picturesque setting. Ally and Tyler’s sweet, casual winter engagement embodied the rustic beauty and warmth that the lodge is known for.
A Cozy Winter Wonderland
Despite the cooler weather, RT Lodge provided a backdrop that felt both inviting and serene. With towering trees and a woodsy atmosphere, this location radiates a timeless charm perfect for winter sessions. Ally and Tyler embraced the natural beauty around them, creating moments that felt effortless yet striking. The golden hues of fallen leaves and the soft winter light combined perfectly, giving each photo a luminous glow.
Sweet and Simple Styling
Ally and Tyler’s style for their engagement shoot was the perfect reflection of their laid-back personalities. Ally looked stunning in a cozy sweater paired with jeans & boots, while Tyler opted for a classic casual look with a sweater and jeans. Their simple, yet thoughtful styling fit seamlessly into the natural environment of RT Lodge. Nothing about this session felt overdone, and that’s what made it so special. The couple’s genuine connection and love took center stage, and every smile and laugh felt authentic.
A Natural Connection
One of the highlights of this engagement session was the genuine connection between Ally and Tyler. From walking hand-in-hand along the lodge’s trails to sharing quiet, intimate moments by the fireplace, their love was palpable. The relaxed atmosphere of RT Lodge seemed to bring out their playful side as well. At one point, they couldn’t help but laugh as Ally jumped onto Tyler’s back, creating some truly candid and heartwarming shots.
Why RT Lodge is Perfect for Winter Engagements
RT Lodge is an ideal location for couples looking to blend elegance with rustic charm. The wood-paneled interiors, cozy fireplaces, and stunning outdoor scenery create endless opportunities for beautiful photos, regardless of the season. In winter, the lodge transforms into a tranquil retreat, perfect for capturing those romantic moments.
With its cozy ambiance and scenic beauty, it was the perfect backdrop for Ally and Tyler’s winter engagement. Their session captured everything that makes winter engagements so special: warmth, simplicity, and undeniable romance.
If you’re considering a winter engagement session, RT Lodge offers a stunning, intimate setting that allows love to shine through every frame. Just like Ally and Tyler, you can create memories that will last a lifetime in this magical location.
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Visit RT Lodge for more information about this beautiful venue!
Buzzwords: Wedding Vendors Vs. Budget Labels
Planning a wedding is a delicate balance between dreams and details, and amidst the excitement, you can often find yourself navigating the language of budgets and costs. While the desire to maintain financial parameters is completely understandable, there's a case to be made against the use of phrases like "budget-friendly," "cost-effective," and the infamous "costs an arm and a leg" when seeking wedding vendors. Here's why these buzzwords may not be serving you as well as you might think.
Value Over Cost
Weddings are not just transactions; they are investments in creating memories that will last a lifetime. Focusing solely on cost-centric phrases can overshadow the true value that a skilled and experienced vendor brings to your special day. Instead of fixating on budget labels, consider the expertise, creativity, and passion that a vendor contributes to make your wedding uniquely yours.
Tailoring Your Vision
Every couple has a distinct vision for their wedding day. Using phrases like "I'm on a budget" can inadvertently limit your options and lead to missed opportunities. Vendors are often willing to work within various financial frameworks, but open communication about your vision and priorities allows for a more tailored and fulfilling collaboration.
Quality Reflects Investment
The world of wedding vendors is vast and diverse, offering a range of styles, talents, and expertise. Acknowledging that quality services come at a certain price is a key aspect of the wedding planning journey. Instead of fearing the investment, focus on the value that a professional vendor brings to ensure your day unfolds seamlessly and beautifully.
Respect for Artistry
Wedding vendors, especially photographers, are artists who pour their creativity into crafting timeless memories. Reducing their work to mere budget considerations overlooks the dedication and artistry they bring to the table. Embrace a mindset that values their craft and respects their commitment to making your wedding day truly special.
Transparent Communication
Rather than approaching vendors with budget-centric phrases, engage in transparent communication about your expectations and financial parameters. This allows vendors to provide personalized solutions and ensures a collaborative approach to achieving your wedding vision.
Building Relationships
Wedding planning is a collaborative journey, and building positive relationships with vendors enhances the entire experience. Shifting the focus from cost-centered language to open communication and mutual respect fosters a partnership that goes beyond transactional interactions.
While financial considerations are undeniably a crucial aspect of wedding planning, it's essential to approach vendor relationships with a mindset that values the expertise, creativity, and commitment they bring to your special day. By embracing open communication, acknowledging the value of their craft, and focusing on the unique qualities each vendor offers, you'll pave the way for a wedding experience that becomes a true celebration of love and artistry.
The Standard Knoxville Luxury Wedding
Creating Your Dream Day: A Guide to Choosing Wedding Vendors
Congratulations, lovebirds! As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your special day, one of the key decisions you'll make is selecting the vendors who will bring your wedding vision to life. Rather than tiptoeing around budget concerns, let's dive into the art of expressing your expectations and defining your style.
Know Your Numbers
Start by embracing transparency. Rather than shying away from the budget conversation, consider stating your approximate budget upfront. This not only streamlines the vendor selection process but also ensures that you find professionals who align with your financial comfort zone. Let the experts know your ballpark figure, and watch as they work their magic within those parameters.
Set Expectations
Communicate your expectations clearly. Share your vision for the day, outlining what matters most to you. Whether it's capturing candid moments, creating a floral wonderland, or curating a culinary experience, express your desires openly. Vendors appreciate a couple who knows what they want, allowing them to tailor their services to your needs.
Define Your Style
Every couple has a unique love story, and your wedding should reflect that. Take the time to define your wedding style. Are you envisioning a classic and timeless affair, a modern and sleek celebration, or perhaps a bohemian-inspired gathering? Clearly articulating your style preferences helps vendors tailor their offerings to complement your aesthetic.
Do Your Research
Explore vendor portfolios and reviews to find professionals whose work resonates with you. Look beyond the price tag and focus on the value they bring to your wedding. Don't be afraid to ask for references or schedule consultations to get a feel for their personalities, workflow, and style.
Build Connections
Building a rapport with your vendors is crucial. Seek professionals who understand your vision, communicate effectively, and genuinely care about making your day extraordinary. A strong connection fosters a collaborative atmosphere, ensuring a smoother planning process and a more enjoyable wedding day.
Stay True to Your Vision
Throughout the planning process, stay true to your vision and values. Remember that your wedding is a celebration of your love story, and the right vendors will enhance that narrative. Choose professionals who align with your style, meet your expectations, and, most importantly, make you feel confident in entrusting them with the most special day of your lives.
In summary, be open about your budget, communicate your expectations clearly, define your wedding style, do thorough research, build connections, and stay true to your vision. By approaching vendor selection with style and savvy, you'll create a wedding day that reflects the essence of your love, without ever needing to utter the phrases "I'm on a budget" or "cost an arm and a leg." Cheers to a wedding journey filled with joy, authenticity, and the perfect team to bring your dreams to life!
