By having just a simple window in the bridal prep area, I am able to create beautiful portraits with soft light. This is something that will make a dramatic impact on your pre-ceremony photos. If there are no windows or natural light in the getting-ready area, I will likely have you do some faux "getting dressed" shots somewhere on the property where we can access natural light. This may be another room or just a simple doorway. Without natural light, my style of photos that you have come to love are nearly impossible. So natural light is very much a necessity. If you don't have any control over your bridal suite location, don't worry, I will work some magic to ensure that you still have detail shots and getting- in-the-dress shots that are photographed in natural light!

My day begins with the detail shots. I ask that brides gather any details they have before I arrive so that I can walk in, say hello, give you a hug, and then begin with all the goodies. What to gather: dress, veil/hairpieces, all three rings, cufflinks, shoes, bouquet & boutonniere, jewelry, perfume, invitation suite, borrowed & blue. Extra elements might include vow books, linen from one of your tablescapes, ribbon you used on bridesmaids' gifts, and extra blooms.

Gabe will photograph the groom and his groomsmen getting ready if they are in the same location as the bride. If they are not in the same location, we’ll need to plan for this travel time in the timeline.

Imagine this with me. You're in my shoes...the most important moment of the day is about to happen. You've checked your camera settings, you've taken test shots, and you're ready to capture the bride coming down the aisle to her groom. You want to capture reactions, a variety of angles, and every moment of joy and emotion in those few seconds. However, just as everyone stands and the music plays, not one but three different family members and friends get so excited that they take just one step out into the aisle with their iPhones in hand, trying to capture the moment. I'm scrambling. My couple is trusting me not to miss this!!! But now I'm dodging guests who are trying desperately to have a good Insta-story to share, and they have no idea that the back of their heads, their arms, and their phones are blocking me from capturing the bride and her dad walking down the isle.... and the sad part is, it can almost always be avoided. We highly recommend having an "Unplugged Ceremony". This is just another way of saying that you want only your photographers to be capturing photos, and you would like everyone else to enjoy the ceremony instead of trying to capture it themselves. Options for notifying guests: Include the request in on signage near the entrance, mention it before the ceremony, and include it in the program.

Ceremony lighting plays a crucial role in your photos. Midday outdoor ceremonies often result in harsh lighting, causing unflattering shadows and squinting. To avoid this, schedule your outdoor ceremony 2-3 hours before sunset if including a First Look, or 3-4 hours before if not, allowing ample time for portraits in softer, more romantic light. For indoor ceremonies, opt against spotlight-style lighting on the bride and groom, even lighting at the altar is more flattering.

I love seeing all the creative and heartfelt ways couples celebrate their love, from intimate family prayers to the symbolism of sand and rope ceremonies; the creativity is endless! As you dream up your ceremony to reflect your unique bond, please loop me in on your plans. This way, I can make sure I'm in just the right spot to capture every unforgettable moment. I can't wait to see what you come up with!

DON'T GET CAUGHT UP in the formalities and the details. Sure, details are pretty and fun to photograph, but they can steal the joy of the day if you get

too caught up in them. Plan your centerpieces, welcome table, etc., well before the wedding date, and teach your coordinator or family friend how to set them up so that you aren't even thinking about those things on the day of! And if things go sideways, focus on your love for each other because that is really all that matters.