Behind the Lens & At the Altar: A Wedding Photographer’s Experience as a Bride
I’ve spent years capturing the most magical moments of countless weddings. I thought I knew what it was like to plan and experience the “big day.” But let me tell you, being the bride is a whole different adventure! As a wedding photographer, stepping into the shoes of the bride taught me so much about the other side of the lens. Now that I’ve experienced it firsthand, I want to share some tips I learned, along with giving a HUGE shoutout to the amazing people who made our day unforgettable!
What I Learned as a Bride (and Wedding Photographer)
1. Make your wedding about the things you love
Your wedding is about you, so don't be afraid to make it personal! We incorporated our passions into our décor—antique cameras and vinyl records as centerpieces. As a photographer who collects antique cameras, and with my spouse’s love for music and records, these personal touches made the day feel even more “us.” It’s those little details that reflect who you are as a couple that make your day truly special.
2. Start with a color palette and let things evolve
We wanted our bridal party to reflect the vibe we were going for without feeling too matchy-matchy. So, we gave them a color palette to choose from and let them select their own outfits within it. It kept everything cohesive but still allowed everyone’s personality to shine.
3. Trust your vendors
As a photographer, I know the importance of choosing the right vendors. But being a bride really drove home how much you need to trust and let go. My biggest tip? Hire people you admire and trust, then let them work their magic. You'll thank yourself later!
4. Your timeline will change, and that’s okay!
I've been on shoots where we’re running behind, and as a bride, I felt that firsthand. Your day won’t go perfectly according to schedule—and it doesn’t have to. It’s the memories that matter.
5. Make sure you schedule moments to breathe.
When you’re in front of the camera all day, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Make sure to plan quiet moments where you can take it all in with your partner. Those moments will mean the world.
Vendor Shoutouts: My Dream Team
I couldn’t have pulled off this day without the best of the best, and I want to highlight everyone who made our wedding so special.
Britnee Colleen
Britnee helped me plan my wedding and coordinated the entire day! I photograph weddings all the time, and I’ve never seen anyone handle things better than this gal! Please, hire Britnee—she gets things DONE!
Peter Ringenberg – Photographer & Videographer
Peter has been a friend for 10 years, and I look up to him like a big brother. He captured our day flawlessly, and I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else behind the camera!
Casey Patrick Photography
Casey’s energy is everything! I’m literally crying as I look at the photos she took. She knows her lighting like no one else, and I’m so grateful to have had her with us.
Lyz King MUA
Lyz did my makeup, and I couldn’t stop looking in the mirror! She made me feel absolutely beautiful, and I wouldn’t have trusted anyone else.
The Kalon Hair Lab Crew
I’ve been going to this salon for 12 years, and they nailed it on my wedding day! I’m even thinking about trying bangs now—seriously, the best salon ever.
Always N Bloom Weddings
When I thought the venue couldn’t be prettier, Always N Bloom stepped in and worked their magic. Every detail was perfect, and I’ve loved working with them for years!
Olivia Ruxton Jewelry
Olivia has been friends with Adam and Adam thought it would be great for her to make some custom made rings for us! They turned out so pretty!
Why Not Both – The Band
These guys were amazing, even with our hour delay and a few mishaps! Everyone loved the energy they brought to the reception, and I couldn’t have asked for better music.
Yancy – Our Officiant
One of our dearest friends,Yancy, officiated our wedding. He was the best of the best, and I couldn’t imagine anyone else in that role.
Shawn “JellieFish” McDonough – DJ
Shawn went above and beyond, keeping the dance floor packed all night. He played everything we requested and more!
Love and Macarons – Cake & Macarons
Our cake was stunning, and the macarons? They were devoured before I could even grab more than one! I’ll definitely be stopping by for more soon!
AAYS Event Rentals – Table Linens
The linen tablecloths were the perfect touch and added so much elegance to the day.
Sundance & The Secret Garden – VenueThe most beautiful venue around, hands down! Sundance & The Secret Garden gave us the dream backdrop for our wedding.
A Bite with Mee – Catering
The food was out of this world! Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how delicious everything was. You are family, and we love you all!
Final Thoughts
As a wedding photographer and a bride, I can say this: Trust your vendors, embrace the chaos, and don’t forget to enjoy every moment. It goes by in a blink! I’m so grateful for everyone who helped make our day one we’ll never forget.
Thank you to my dream team! You all have my heart forever.
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