I'm your outgoing, adventure-loving elopement and wedding photographer, and I can't wait to get to know you and tell your story. We'll probably get along if you feel alive exploring new places, getting outdoors, and having fun with your partner!
Coming out of the holidays with a new ring on your hand? First off – CONGRATULATIONS on starting this new chapter!!
Now, to the details: you are not alone if these early stages can be OVERWHELMING. That’s normal, I PROMISE. Afterall, there are a million ways to get married, and most people have never planned a wedding before! So often I see couples jump right into wedding planning immediately after popping the questions, which is great, but it can also lead to wedding planning burnout, and overall confusion.
I’m here to help you through the entire wedding process, even before I pick up my camera to photograph your Western Canada wedding.
So here are your 6 first steps after getting engaged:
#1. Take it all in!
Spend a weekend, or a week, or a month just enjoying being fiances! This will pass by in a whirlwind, and you’ll never be fiances again! I know the light at the end of the planning-tunnel is getting to marry each other, but this chapter deserves to be celebrated too! Be sure to enjoy it.
#2. Figure Out Your Budget
Know the max you’re willing to spend, and figure out how you’ll be dividing the finances. If you’re eloping, you’ll be able to save a ton on venue costs and allocate your funds differently (don’t forget to invest in your photographer!). For traditional weddings, expect to spend a good chunk on your venue. From there, your photographer and videographer will likely be your largest investment. Check out this blog post on Why Your Wedding Photographer Is An Investment.
#3. Envision Your Dream Day – Not Just a Wedding!
I want you to envision EVERYTHING about your dream day ever. Not just a perfect ‘wedding day’, but if you could do anything in a day, what would it be? Where would you be? How would you and your partner be feeling? What are the vibes? When that translates to your wedding or elopement day, you can start thinking of questions like if you want to elope, or have a traditional wedding? Do you want an intimate ceremony after adventuring in the mountains, or a bigger celebration with friends and family? Destination or local?
I highly recommend taking a date night with your partner to create these visions together. Talk it all through, envision it, even spend some time scrolling on Pinterest. Think about how you both want to FEEL on your wedding day, and prioritize that.
#4. Lock Down The Location
You need a place to get married afterall! Again, instead of getting overwhelmed with the options, figure out WHERE you want to say your vows. What views are you searching for, what sort of weather and climate do you prefer, how accessible of a location do you want, how many people do you need to accommodate?
If you’re eloping, figure out a general idea of your ‘where’, even if you haven’t found the specific trail/lake/summit. A lot of spots require permits, but I’m here to help with any of that if you need.
If you’re planning a traditional wedding, be sure to tour a number of venues before signing the contract. Keep your wedding date flexible so you don’t lose out on your dream venue because they aren’t available on the date.
#5. Book Your Photographer
Your photos are the ONLY tangible memories you’ll have after your wedding day! They are invaluable, and will be the only way you can relive your wedding day for the years to come. While I may be biased, your wedding photography deserves to be one of your largest investments – yes, even if you’re eloping. Your elopement day is just as important as someone else’s wedding day, and deserves to be documented appropriately.
Photographers typically book out 6 – 18 months in advance, so don’t wait if you’ve found your dream photographer. Once you inquire through my Inquiry form on my Connect page, we’ll chat over a Zoom call where you’ll get to know me and I’ll get to hear all about your wedding or elopement day plans. From there, I’ll send over your Wedding Booking File and you’ll lock me down as your Alberta wedding or elopement photographer.
#6. Other Vendors to Book Immediately
Some other vendors that book out far in advance are videographers, caterers, and wedding planners.
After these are taken care of: pour yourselves a nice glass of bubbly and take a BREATH!
You’ve got this! Remember, this process is still supposed to be ENJOYABLE (even if it’s also a little stressful). You’re getting MARRIED, and THAT is what matters.
Ready to tell your very own love story with cinematic and storytelling imagery? If you’re ready to have me as your Calgary wedding photographer, get in touch through my CONNECT page!
Love is Love. Diversity & Inclusivity are always celebrated matter here and everyone is welcome
Love is Love. Diversity & Inclusivity matter here
We follow Leave no Trace principles to protect this beautiful earth for everyone to experience responsibly
We follow Leave no Trace principles