what your vendor team should know (xo, your wedding photog)

After 150+ weddings over the last 6 years, I’ve learned a few things and want to share them with you! If you’re envisioning a stylish, unique, fun and memorable wedding for your guests (and yourselves), then you need to read this.

Weddings are one of the most fast-moving days of your lives, while also being the most emotional, expensive and exhausting — they take expertise and experience from so many talented professionals to occur seamlessly. From my perspective as a Baltimore wedding photographer with an architecture + design background, here are 5 things I recommend discussing with the rest of your vendor team in advance, to ensure your photos are the most authentic, beautiful and genuine version they can possibly be.

ps: if you need vendor recommendations for any of these categories (and more!), I’m happy to share my list of favorites once you’re officially part of the family of #urpcouples! You’re welcome in advance. ;)

1. having the planner / florist / officiant’s help with this one thing will have a huge impact on your ceremony photos:

…ensuring the ceremony backdrop is (and YOU as a couple are too!) centered in the aisle, to avoid the space looking unbalanced and slightly off -- unfortunately photoshop and editing after the fact can’t fix this, but taking a step back during setup to double check can go a long way! This is a huge pet peeve of mine since it’s so easy to prevent.

Sometimes, the design of a space won’t allow the aisle to be set up so that it’s centered on the wall or backdrop you’ll be standing in front of, or the chairs are not setup yet when your florist begins installing the ceremony backdrop, but if this is the case, have them ask that at least the front 2 chairs are placed so they can ensure it is all centered from there! Knowing any issues in advance (one of the reasons why final walkthroughs at your venue with your planner [and/or florist, photographer, venue coordinator etc], is so beneficial!) and planning for a creative solution can go a long way. I can almost guarantee that waiting until the day of to see how it looks once everything is setup is too late!

2. ask that your DJ / band / entertainment does this one thing with us, but does not use these:

documenting all of the reception events (introductions, toasts, speeches, dances, etc) in their best light benefits from a heads-up right before they’re about to happen -- we may need to reposition ourselves, our flashes or the person giving the speech and scrambling at the last minute isn’t a good look. ...a simple check-in goes a long way!

You know what else isn’t a good look? A dance floor full of speckled or lasered dancers. Unless you specifically enjoy the look of chicken pox on your guests, please ask your DJ not to use colorful lighting dots / laser beams because they are terribly unflattering in photos!

3. one of the beauty related questions I always get in advance (and am happy to answer):

I am always happy to communicate (or let the planner share this info!) when hair + makeup should be complete for photos in advance of the wedding day to set the tone for a relaxed start... when hair/makeup runs on time, it means the day won’t start off rushed and stressed and our couple can take their time getting dressed and soaking it all in!

4. a reasonable ask of the videographer, who I’m physically standing alongside the whole day:

working together as a creative team that communicates both before the wedding day and on the day of, to avoid getting in each other’s shots (and placing tripods / light stands in each others way ;)) will ensure a fabulous experience for everyone... if we can tag team different creative ideas for couple’s portraits -- we all benefit!

5. please relay this important message to your catering team!:

no one wants photos taken while they’re eating, so feeding the photographer (+ videographer) right after the couple gets their dinner allows us to be ready to photograph the speeches / toasts / special dances when they begin… my favorite caterers (IYKYK) know that it’s to everyone’s benefit to not feed the photographers last, but if you have any questions, you know how to reach me! ;)

Do you have any specific questions about these or other vendor considerations? I’m happy to help, just email me at naomi@urbanrowphoto.com and I’ll do my best to point you in the right direction — I truly believe if we all function as a supportive, kind and cohesive team on the day of, it’s a better experience for everyone!! No one wants added stress on a wedding day that could have been avoided with a simple conversation in advance. ;)

xo,
Naomi

5 charming, modern and elegant hotels to get ready in for a baltimore wedding

Are you looking for a hotel in Baltimore that will lend a polished look to your getting ready photos on the morning of your wedding and has a boutique, luxe feel?

Here are my top 5, in no particular order:

1. Four Seasons

2. Sagamore Pendry

3. Canopy Harbor Point

4. Hotel Revival

5. The Ivy Hotel

…annnnd a BONUS! Hotel Ulysses, a boutique hotel in Mt. Vernon that I haven’t been to yet but I’ve seen tons of people checking - their space looks sooooo unique and memorable.

All of these hotels have modern finishes, furniture and design (with a touch of whimsy, art + retro vibes at Revival and an eclectic, old-world feel at The Ivy) with tons of natural light in their rooms!

WONDERING Which spots would work well for A first look and portraits BEFORE ceremony?

• Since the Four Seasons is along the promenade that overlooks the harbor, you’ll have the Baltimore city skyline in the background of your photos AND Domino sugar if you turn the other way. The Four Seasons terrace also works well as long it’s not too windy!

• The Sagamore Pendry has endless opportunities for portraits in the courtyard, on the pool deck, on the balcony overlooking Broadway Pier (if you book a suite with a balcony!) or in the heart of Fells as you step outside… so many options!

• Canopy at Harbor Point is also right on the promenade; near Frederick Douglass Maritime Park, it has a terraced green space on one side and floor-to-ceiling glass walls next door at the Morgan Stanley building that provide a beautiful modern backdrop for photos.

Hotel Revival is in the heart of Mt. Vernon, at the end of Mt. Vernon park, a short walk from the Washington Monument. This charming, boutique hotel has a lobby staircase full of colorful and whimsical wallpaper and a mid-century modern vibe to the lobby furniture that both provide very photogenic spaces to use for photos inside. Outdoors, Mt. Vernon Park is right there with tons of historic brownstones, shady tree-lined sidewalks and cobblestoned streets that all make for beautiful portraits of the two of you and your wedding party and families!

The Ivy Hotel is an absolute hidden gem in Baltimore’s Mt. Vernon neighborhood. With world-class hospitality, sophisticated charm, playful elegance and chic metropolitan vibes, it is hands down, my favorite historic mansion in Baltimore. The Conservatory and private courtyard garden are both incredibly lush, romantic and relaxing all at once — you can’t go wrong with seeing your partner for your first look in either of these spaces!

Pro tip: make sure you have enough room for all of your VIPs to fit comfortably with you (a suite can help!) AND that you feel at ease in the place you’re getting ready — it sets the tone for the rest of the day!

Let me know any questions you have about the getting ready portion of a wedding day below in the comments! It’s one of my favorite parts of the day — so many great candids and fun memories!

13 of the best unique and intimate wedding venues in baltimore

Having an intimate wedding celebration is the perfect way to celebrate what makes your relationship memorable, unique and fun… there are so many benefits to having a smaller celebration (but that’s a topic for an entirely separate blog post)!

Micro weddings with an intimate group of loved ones have become increasingly popular — in this blog post I’m highlighting some of my favorite Baltimore venues for a tiny wedding ceremony and reception celebration. There are so many places in Charm City to bring family and friends together that speak to your values, personalities and relationship.

Enjoy these 13 unique and beautifully intimate and photogenic (both inside and out!) wedding venues in Baltimore!

1. The Ivy Hotel; luxe 19th century restored mansion in historic Mt. Vernon
   
   The sunken, private courtyard is my favorite place for an intimate wedding ceremony within The Ivy Hotel. It is lush, serene, meticulously designed and allows you to feel like you’re in an exquisite urban oasis.
   
   Planning a first look? The conservatory is a gorgeous backdrop for this special moment with a modern black and white aesthetic softened by all the greenery and old-world furnishings.

2. Sagamore Pendry; sophisticated, lush and stylish former pier building at the center of historic Fells Point

This venue earns all the heart eyes if you ask me — there are so many photogenic spots!! The hardest part is narrowing down where to take your portraits. The modern glass facade along Thames St. in the heart of Fells Point showcases the historic Main Street buildings across the street while the iconic red carpeted staircase feels chic, timeless and grand.

The courtyard is an incredibly lush and contemporary garden space that is like nothing you’ve ever experienced before and looks beautiful no matter the season.

3. Rye Street Tavern; refined, modern distillery on the waterfront in South Baltimore

It’s probably no secret that well-designed spaces catch my eye (thanks to my degree and previous career in architecture and design!); both the Sagamore Spirit Distillery and Rye Street Tavern are as crisp and contemporary as they come. With interiors designed by Patrick Sutton, this venue offers a warm, relaxed and polished vibe with unobstructed views of the industrial waterfront.

4. Mt. Washington Mill Dye House; industrial textile mill with historic character and modern design in Northern Baltimore

Full of rustic stone and brick, the courtyard space at the Dye House is perfect for intimate outdoor ceremonies; the large tree centrally located at one end adds a splash of green and softens the feel of the patio. The back patio is a fabulous place to have dinner under the stars with 30 people… adding bistro lights takes it to another level!

5. Gunther & Co; urban chic with a 16’ high living plant wall in Brewer’s Hill

This former brewery turned New American restaurant is full of modern design and brick + bluestone outdoor spaces that are stunning for photos; in the warmer months, the hanging greenery frames a beautiful place for cozy and fun moments together.

6. Artifact Coffee; historic mill building with cozy coffeehouse vibes near Clipper Mill and Woodberry

Full of charm, character and a cozy, romantic atmosphere, Artifact Coffee not only makes delicious coffee, but makes you look good inside or outside of its walls. The patio area surrounded by rustic, stone walls is simply perfect for small outdoor ceremonies.

Bonus that Clipper Mill is just a short walk away for some epic shots full of all the industrial vibes and textured backdrops you can imagine!

7. Rawlings Conservatory; botanical gardens + glass conservatory in Druid Hill Park

The architecture and design of this glass conservatory is an incredible backdrop on its own, yet the gardens flanking the front and side of the exquisitely planted grounds and the incredible variety of rooms and spaces inside, will leave you with endless choices for backdrops… it’s truly a garden lover’s dream come true, right in Baltimore city!

Established in 1888, the greenhouses are organized by climate and include a Mediterranean greenhouse, a tropical forest greenhouse, a desert greenhouse, an orchid room and the Palm House.

8. Woodberry Kitchen; rustic industrial within Clipper Mill

The string lights and vaulted ceiling with full-length windows let in as much natural light as possible and worn wood floorboards underfoot, add a romantic feel as your guests mingle...

The firepit patio area is surrounded by a facade of beautiful arches to form a backdrop to your portraits. If we have time to explore the rest of the Clipper Mill area, there are so many brick, wood and iron textured patterns to take advantage of!

No matter the season, Woodberry Kitchen’s vibe is always cozy, warm, comfortable and full of incredible food and aromas.

9. Heron Room; charming, natural, industrial vibes at Mill No. 1 on the Jones Falls

This restored mill complex is one of my favorites in Baltimore for many reasons; the views from the bridge above the Jones Falls are like nothing else in Baltimore and the texture of the brick and oversized rusted shutters just give it so much charm.

The cobblestone courtyard allows your ceremony to feel like you’re in a European piazza! Guests can enjoy cocktail hour outside on the overlook facing the Falls and you can have your first look and portraits in a number of places. It’s also dog-friendly!

10. Cielo Verde; a Latin-Mediteranean garden restaurant (operated by the Alma Cocina Latina team)

If you love food that is unique, full of flavor and an art form in and of itself, Cielo Verde will check all of your boxes! Located at the top of the AVAM with sweeping views of Federal Hill and the Inner Harbor, this restaurant has a beautiful private terrace and is filled with bright light and lush greenery throughout.

11. Mt. Washington Tavern; modern bistro with a Chesapeake Bay equestrian theme

With a modern aesthetic full of natural light, Mt. Washington Tavern has a variety of spaces to celebrate and a fun classic tavern feel both upstairs and downstairs.

The Pimlico and Chesapeake Rooms are bright and spacious, while the Sky Bar’s open-air seating area overlooks the heart of Mt. Washington.

12. Blue Pit BBQ; woman-owned, dog-friendly bbq + whiskey bar in Woodberry

This hidden gem in the Woodberry neighborhood has the best BBQ in Baltimore; their upstairs room and back patio make intimate wedding celebrations easy, laidback and fun so you can enjoy the day with your favorite people and know the food/drink and atmosphere are more than taken care of.

Everything at Blue Pit BBQ is made from scratch: meats are smoked slow and low, sides are carefully crafted and cocktails use fresh squeezed juices and homemade syrups. Blue Pit BBQ is named for pit bbq and their beloved blue pit bull… I love their dog-friendly patio that always welcomes well-behaved pups!

13. your rooftop deck and favorite spots in Charm City… (I’m 100% SERIOUS!)

Some of my favorite couples chose to elope at the Baltimore City or Towson courthouse and then go on a tour stopping at the places that are most meaningful to them… nothing is off limits!

• Want to flower a bench on a street close to your rowhome? DO IT!

• Have a rooftop deck with killer views of Federal Hill, Patterson Park or Canton? LET’S GO.

• Want to sit in Patterson Park and enjoy the greenery with a relaxing picnic or charcuterie board? WHY NOT!

I hope this list is a helpful starting point for the intimate wedding you may be planning in Baltimore… there are so many incredibly unique and creative venues and locations to get married in throughout Charm City!

Please reach out if you have specific questions about any of them or others you’re considering, I love learning about new venues and using my architecture and design background to be a helpful resource…

xo,
Naomi

6 important questions to ask a wedding photographer

There are tons of lists you can find in wedding magazines and blogs about all the questions you should ask potential wedding photographers, but I wanted to clear the air and distill it down to the most important ones (…at least in my mind)!

Here are some of the questions I often hear from couples and some that I don’t always hear but feel are very important to ask to make sure you’re extremely comfortable with the person you choose to document your most important and best day (yet)!

ps: you might want to save / bookmark this post to refer back to and share it with your newly engaged (or soon-to-be-engaged) friends!

What to Ask A Wedding Photographer at Your Initial Consult/Meeting

1. To see a full gallery (or 2-3!) …bonus if one of them took place at your venue!

However, be careful… don’t get caught up in thinking “if my photographer hasn’t worked there yet, do I need to find one that has?” Short answer: NO.
Pro Tip: Our creativity is heightened when we visit and photograph at a venue for the first time. Trust me! ;)

Also please keep in mind that your wedding will likely look very different than any gallery we share — as it should! The colors, vibe and/or season may be similar to yours, but in the end, what you’re really looking for is to make sure that the photographer has the ability to document a variety of moments throughout the day with ease: both big and small moments, candids and formals; that they have a mastery of shooting in a variety of conditions: low-lit churches, rain/wind, dark ceremony / reception spaces, etc. and that there is a clear and compelling and real (aka: not forced or overly posed or stiff) story of the day being told through the photographs…

2. Will they go on a final walkthrough or visit your venue prior to the wedding if they’ve never been before?

I absolutely will and even if I have photographed there before, I believe it’s extremely valuable and if I can align my schedule to work with your visit, count me in!

3. How do they direct family formals and make sure not to miss anyone?!

COMMUNICATION! I will share a standard family photo list with you in advance and we will go over it to make sure we have a good understanding of the VIPs in your fam! I’ll also bring it with me on the day of the wedding. Another reason why having 2 photographers is hugely helpful: usually the second photographer will be helping to wrangle people, get them up and ready on deck and keep track of any groupings we need to go back to.

4. Do they have trusted vendors they can share with you?

Heck yes! Just ask and you will receive the most comprehensive list (once you’re officially booked with Urban Row)! I only share the names of people I have worked with on a wedding day or during an editorial shoot so that I am confident you will also love their communication style, talent and personality!

5. What makes them different than other photographers?

You can read my reasons here (see the first 3 questions!). ;)

6. How do they ensure your images are backed up before they deliver them in case technology fails?

For me, both of my cameras shoot and record the same images to two cards so I always have at least one card to work with if the other becomes corrupt. I also never delete / format the cards until after I’ve delivered your wedding so if for some reason my computer and external hard drive both fail, I will have the cards to go back to. I also back everything up to an offsite third party backup system just as another method to ensure everything is safe!!

I know for most couples, this is your first time planning a wedding and it’s so hard to know what to ask all of your vendors… I love it when couples ask me questions! I’m an open book and happy to share if you’re curious or concerned — just ask away!

36 ideas for where to take your engagement photos in Baltimore

The most common question I’m asked after a couple books Urban Row Photography as their wedding photographer is…

WHERE SHOULD WE TAKE
OUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS?

So, I’m devoting an entire series on the blog specifically to help answer this and demystify the process of where to take your engagement photos in Baltimore! Starting with my list of favorite locations in Baltimore first, but a separate post is in the works for locations in the greater Maryland, DC and PA area to plan your engagement session since there are so many incredibly picturesque spots outside of Baltimore!

I want to show you how to make your engagement photos memorable, fun, un-awkward and full of important aspects that are meaningful to you both. Without further ado, here’s a list of 36 locations to take your engagement photos in Baltimore (those with a $ next to them require a permit + nominal fee):

Patterson Park: pagoda, lake, hilltop views at sunset…

Lake Roland: trails, lake views, gorgeous leaves in the Fall

Union Craft Brewing: a series of bold, graphic and colorful murals

Bmore Licks: fun murals + pupsicles for your #urbanrowpup!

Druid Hill Park: especially in the spring with all the pastel blooms, Druid Hill Park shines! It also happens to be the home to Rawlings Conservatory… more on that below! ;)

Henderson’s Wharf / Broadway Pier: one of Baltimore’s oldest warehouse buildings and public spaces full of charm, character, lots of brick and amazing waterfront views… and breezes! This esesh is also a fun one to relive!)

Frederick Douglass Maritime Museum: views of the iconic Domino Sugar factory sign are unmatched from this pier!

Harbor East waterfront: a fun, chic waterfront spot

Canton waterfront: sunset views from here are wide open and shimmery!

Sandlot: as beachy as Baltimore gets… drinks, sunset views, sand and cafe lights with views of the downtown skyline

Streetcar Museum: if you share a love of transportation and/or met on a subway (one of my couples did!), engagement photos at the Streetcar Museum would be such a unique way to commemorate it!

The Guinness Brewery: Baltimore is home to the only Guinness location in the US?! Helloooo fellow beer lovers! There’s tons of outdoor space, a fun mural and beautiful design to incorporate as you sip a freshly poured pint of yummy beer!

Charmery (the OG location in Hampden): a turquoise mural on the corner of this iconic and quirky Baltimore ice cream shop with some of the most unique flavors you’ve ever had make it a really fun place to start or end your photoshoot!

The Ave in Hampden: all the kitsch with lots of fun, independent shops and storefronts

Cylburn Arboretum: a historic old mansion, enormous old trees, tons of nature to explore and gorgeous no matter what season…

Rawlings Conservatory ($): a lush, tropical greenhouse oasis in the city

Maryland Zoo in Druid Hill Park: your portraits could include penguins, polar bears and pygmy goats! What else could you want?! ;)

AVAM: mosaics, ivy covered brick walls and lots of fabulous, fun sculptural art

Federal Hill Park: one of the most iconic views in Baltimore, overlooking the Inner Harbor - sunsets here can be cinematic!

Artifact Coffee: rustic, cozy coffee shop near Hampden + Clipper Mill

Clipper Mill: love the industrial grit here… think loading ramps, rusty window panes, fire escapes…

Brewer’s Art: a brewpub in Mt. Vernon with craft beers and a unique atmosphere - the windows near the main bar overlook bustling Charles Street and have a really cool, classic + vintage vibe

Mt. Vernon Place: feels like you’re in Europe without the travel! ;)

Rye Street Tavern: cocktails on the lawn with water views and clean, modern design… Baltimore perfection.

Under Armour HQ / Tide Point: views of the Inner Harbor skyline along a waterfront promenade and industrial buildings… bonus if the Domino sugar boat is docked at their factory next door!

Fort McHenry: for the history buff who loves big trees and green spaces and the water’s edge… a relaxing picnic on a summer’s day here would be perfect!

Bromo Seltzer Clock Tower ($): a historic clock tower in the heart of downtown Baltimore that evokes another era and is like nothing you’ve ever seen before!

Sherwood Gardens: this spot is best during spring blooms when the tulips are at their peak! Typically peak bloom occurs the last week of April through the first week in May, depending on weather conditions. In the heart of the Guilford neighborhood, this community park and rolling lawn were designed by Olmsted and has beautiful vistas at every corner.

BMA Sculpture Garden ($): lush garden oasis in the city adjacent to Johns Hopkins Homewood campus with modern sculpture throughout.

Pratt Library: love the architecture of the historic main branch facade downtown - where are my book nerds?!

Graffiti Alley: an ever-changing alley of colorful graffiti; the graffiti walls make for a really fun contrast of a backdrop when paired with formal attire and long/flowy dresses!

Mt Washington Tavern: a modern tavern with crisp, clean and inviting architecture, bright spaces and a fun neighborhood feel

Monument City Brewing: local Baltimore craft brewery in a warehouse space adjacent to Haven Street Ballroom and Urban Axes… such a fun date spot!

College campuses (Loyola, JHU, UMD…): quintessential higher-ed vibes with beautiful quads and tree-lined brick paths; love this idea if you met at college!

Ceremony Coffee: Mt. Vernon (urban city vibes) and Harbor East (glassy and minimalist modern) are my 2 favorite locations!

Cross Street Market / Broadway Market: recently renovated in the heart of Federal Hill and Fells Point, grab a drink at your favorite spot and explore these picturesque main streets together!

Other unique engagement photo ideas in Baltimore… if you have access to any of these, let’s do it!

• A sailboat

• A rooftop deck

• A carriage house / loft for a cozy in-home session

• Bring some bubbly to pop and enjoy no matter where we go!

• Bring your #urbanrowpup. Don’t worry, we will get good photos no matter how excited your dog is!
  

If you have your heart set on a location that’s not on this list, even better - I love discovering new spots to bring my camera! The most important thing to remember when choosing a location is to make sure you’ll be comfortable there. If you’re most comfortable being outdoors together in nature, let’s find the perfect park setting. If you love going out to eat and grabbing a drink, let’s take your photos in and around that bar or restaurant; urban signage and historic streetscapes can make really unique portraits!

Hope to see you in front of my camera soon, friends!

xo,
Naomi

8 questions to ask potential wedding venues (the ones beyond the basics!)

As soon as you’re engaged and ready to start narrowing down your wedding venue, you might quickly find it overwhelming - there are SO many unique and different wedding venues in the Baltimore, Maryland area!

No matter which aesthetic or vibe you’re after, your venue will have specific policies in place to ensure your best day ever is fun, efficient, safe and beautiful for not only you, but for your guests and the vendor team as well.

Knowing the answer to these as far in advance as possible, will allow you to:

1. Save money by knowing the elements of your day you’ll need to possibly budget for differently.

2. Share this information with your vendors in advance, so the entire team is on the same page.

3. Be more creative with your decor and layout since you know the parameters you’re working with!

HERE ARE 8 QUESTIONS TO ASK POTENTIAL WEDDING VENUES:

• How long do we have access to the property? When can we / vendors arrive on site?

• Are we required to hire a wedding planner? NOTE: A venue manager and wedding planner are not the same thing! But that’s a topic for a future blog post… ;)

• Are tables and chairs included in our rental?

• Are pets allowed? For a few epic photos with your #urbanrowpup of course. ;)

• Any restrictions or limitations on decor / exits? Candles? Sparklers?

• If we want to get ready at the venue, what types of spaces do you offer?

• Are there any noise restrictions? Is there a time that the music needs to stop?

• What is the rain plan and how far in advance do we need to make the call to move inside / under cover?

Let me know if you have specific questions about any of these venues or if you’ve found one that you absolutely love and want to work together at… if there’s one thing that gets my creative juices flowing, it’s finding new places to photograph genuine love stories! ;) Oh and if you find a venue I haven’t been to before, visiting and touring it in advance of your wedding day (either with you or on my own), is one of my favorite things to do!

Until then, happy venue hunting!!

xo,
Naomi

10 things to look for in a wedding venue: a photographer's perspective

Whether or not you’ve had a vision of your wedding day since you were 5 or you just got engaged and are now diving into all things wedding planning, the first step (after celebrating your newly engaged status, of course!) will likely be to search for and choose your wedding venue.

A lot of couples find this one of the most overwhelming parts of the process… but it doesn’t have to be! The good news is, once you’ve selected your venue, a lot of the other pieces and vendors will fall into place. Hopefully these tips will help you feel more informed with the characteristics to look for in wedding venues that will directly affect your photography. So whether you’re at the very beginning of your wedding venue search or already have a short list of places you’re really interested in and have started touring…

Here is a list of 10 things that are important to consider when selecting your wedding venue:

(especially if high-quality, beautiful and unique wedding photos are a priority!)

1. The space is naturally beautiful and impressive without needing much additional decor, lighting or rental items brought in

A lot of historic / industrial / urban wedding venues (mills, lofts, warehouses, greenhouses, mansions, etc) have tons of charm, character, texture and a feeling of warmth to them because their previous life was full of so much activity. These spaces usually don’t need much added decor at all, and sometimes even make for a more beautiful wedding venue when the architecture is able to stand out and speak for itself.

What does this mean for you? Beauty, uniqueness AND cost savings in other areas of wedding planning… win, Win, WIN!

2. A variety of backdrops, walls, spaces, gardens and views (this will enhance not only your wedding photos, but also your guests’ experience)!

Your wedding venue is kind of like a really fast mini-vacation (stay with me, ha) if you think about it from the perspective of all there can be to see, experience and showcase to your guests… if you think about your favorite places to visit while on vacation, one of the reasons you probably love getting away and visiting a new place (or even one you’ve been to before), is to discover new ways to experience them with your favorite people.

3. A solid rain plan for your ceremony space if the outdoor ceremony you’re planning on, can’t actually happen

In the Maryland and PA area, the weather changes so quickly… while this can work in your favor more often than not, if you do need to move your plans indoors, you don’t want to feel like it’s ruining everything you planned. My husband and I actually got married during a hurricane at a vineyard on Long Island. We had no choice but to move our ceremony under safe cover in the breezeway, but in reality, it meant we were physically closer to our guests and it felt more intimate (have I mentioned I’m a glass half full person)? Make sure you’re ok with how the rain plan looks and feels, in advance.

4. Access to your venue at least 2-3 hours before your ceremony begins

I try to have 1 hour of uninterrupted time with you + your fiance to take your portraits before the ceremony (if you want to enjoy the cocktail hour and not be away from your guests taking photos in a rushed manner with everyone wanting to interrupt “just to quickly say hi!”) and another hour for photos of your wedding party + immediate family. If we have access to the inside of your venue during this time, everyone’s happier: grandma can sit down during family photos, your wedding party can put their stuff down, temperature and light are controlled, and there’s no wind in the off chance that we NEED to take your portraits inside due to weather.

5. Only one wedding per day

Most of the venues I’ve worked at only host one wedding per day, but some of them are big enough and designed to host more than one per day. To be honest, I feel like this is something that used to happen more frequently when most weddings were only held in catering halls and hotel ballrooms. The biggest negative to consider is that from my experience, you’re limited in where you can go within the venue since other couples have access to adjacent spaces, so that directly impacts where you can take photos. It also could potentially be confusing for your guests from a wayfinding perspective.

6. Getting ready spaces on-site

Being able to get ready on-site at your venue can save you so much stress in having to find a local hotel / AirBnB and plan transportation for you, your partner and the wedding party that might be getting ready with you… not to mention, if we as photographers only have one location to come to and stay at all day, it means more candid photos of the story of your day and more importantly, a more relaxed and enjoyable experience overall.

If you love a venue that doesn’t end up having space to get ready in on-site, that’s ok… what’s the next best thing? Finding a beautiful and spacious AirBnB that has at least one room with lots of natural light that we can take photos of you getting ready in. Bonus if there’s a pretty garden, yard or outdoor porch we can have access to as well! Chain hotels are great for room blocks for your guests but don’t offer the most photogenic backdrops for photos or enough space to comfortably spread out with your loved ones and all your stuff the morning of your wedding.

If a boutique hotel nearby offers a suite, that’s always a good option too since there’s usually more light and space - and, instant honeymoon suite for you two the night of your wedding! Some of my favorite local boutique hotels are The Ivy, the Sagamore Pendry, Hotel Revival, Hotel Monaco and The Line Hotel in DC.

7. Naturally lit spaces

I can’t emphasize the importance of access to natural light because it truly is the most flattering kind of light for all skin types and complexions. While I will use a flash as necessary, as the evening progresses, spaces that are flooded with natural light (from windows or even skylights!) will allow your photos to tell multiple stories throughout the day as the light changes. Documenting your tablescape, cake / desserts in natural light before it gets too dark and moody (if the desserts are setup in advance) is something I always try to do because color, shadow, texture and depth are most visible in daylight.

8. Dimmable lighting / lighting options

You’ll want to avoid using any fluorescent lighting and ask if the lights in the reception space are dimmable, which is hugely helpful for setting the tone for perfect dance floor photos! If your budget allows adding string lights (also called cafe lights or bistro lights), twinkle lights, waterfall lights or uplighting (ivory is best!), they add that romantic, warm glow above a dance floor or al fresco dinner reception that just brings it to the next level!

9. Parking on-site (or easily accessible via shuttle)

If your venue has parking on-site, it’s one less vendor you need to coordinate (valet / shuttle). Some urban venues that don’t have space for on-site parking will include valet parking for your guests or a shuttle that will transport guests to and from parking to the ceremony / reception site. On the other hand, sometimes encouraging guests to Uber is a great option so everyone can truly enjoy themselves safely. Either way has it’s pros/cons but it’s worth being informed in advance so you’re not scrambling as it gets closer to the wedding and trying to book a valet or shuttle service or finding you haven’t budgeted for this expense.

10. Trust in and a good feeling from the venue’s management and operations team

I fully believe clear, responsive and open communication within your vendor team is a HUGE factor in the success and overall feel of your wedding day. You deserve a vendor team that wants your day to be the best it can possibly be and that starts with the venue’s leadership. From the moment you inquire, to the day you tour, to the walkthrough, final rehearsal and the day you finally get married - will you be communicating with the same person the entire time? Will that person also be on site at your wedding? Who will your vendors communicate with at the venue if they have any questions leading up to the wedding? These are all questions the venue should be able and willing to answer, if you ask!

I hope these tips are helpful in your search for the perfect wedding venue - if you have any other specific questions, please leave a comment below and I will do my best to help! Better yet, fill out an inquiry or email me at naomi@urbanrowphoto.com; I love learning about new wedding venues in the MD / DC / PA / VA region and helping you narrow down the one that might best fit the vision for your wedding!!

3 things to consider when planning a winter / holiday wedding

Winter weddings are gaining popularity recently and many wedding venues will transform into cozy, festive hubs of celebration for you and your guests to eat, drink and be merry! If you’re considering getting married during the month of December, there are a few additional layers of detail to consider and factor into your planning.

…enjoy these tips from years of experience capturing couples at recent winter weddings held at unique Baltimore and Maryland wedding venues!

1. be mindful of how days are shorter in cooler months and how the timing of your ceremony can directly affect your photos

for example, if you’re planning a church ceremony that will last about 45-60 minutes to incorporate a full mass and/or start at 3pm or later, the sun will be setting right at the end of your ceremony and won’t allow for many portraits (if any at all!) using natural light. rushing to get portraits in after your ceremony while everyone is anxious to get to the reception and enjoy cocktail hour does not make for a great experience. for weddings between november through february, I highly recommend doing a first look and planning for portraits of you and your partner, bridal party and immediate family BEFORE the ceremony to ensure we have plenty of time to take gorgeous photos in the most flattering light and while everyone is still fresh and focused!

2. find out what your venue will look like during the winter months and if/how they decorate for the holidays

are there added twinkle lights? how festive is their typical winter decor? are you able to see the designs for their decor in advance to make sure you can coordinate any colors, textures or florals to compliment and look cohesive?

Baltimore Country Club for example, has their own holiday decor and florals designed and provided by Victoria Clausen Floral Events… not only is it gorgeous and one less thing for you to think about, but it also makes for beautiful backdrops for your photos both inside and out. I’m all about the added value! ;)

3. don’t let the weather scare you

use the colder weather to your benefit! gift your bridesmaids scarves, fur stoles, cute sweater wraps, fun jackets, boots, etc… your photos will be unique and full of personality :) aaaand, unless it’s pouring rain out, I will ALWAYS recommend we take your portraits outside since natural light is more flattering and will allow us more options of poses, movement, light and shadow.

I love seeing all the unique details our couples include at their late fall and early winter weddings since it usually means warm signature cocktails, cozy wraps and tons of greenery and texture!

10 tips for natural, non-awkward and real engagement photos

Ready to hear something crazy? Engagement sessions aren’t really even about the photos themselves. The photos are a bonus. Yup, I said it.

So what the heck are they for, then?! And how do we get those candid and unposed moments to our engagement photos? Hint: READ ON…

What are engagement photos really for?

1. Establishing a relationship between the 3 of us so you don’t have a stranger documenting the most intimate (and stressful!) days you’ve ever experienced.

   Why would you want to have the first time you meet the person you’ll spend the most time with on your wedding day other than your partner, be the afternoon of your wedding?

2. Building trust… between the 3 of us but also for your immediate family to see photos we took together, to know my style and work in advance.

   Once they do, they will know they can relax on the wedding day and trust us to work our magic and be creative while also capturing everything important to them, as it happens.

3. Enjoying a lighthearted night out together during the stress of wedding planning.

   An excuse to spend an hour outside together having fun with the person you love the most in this world during one of the most exciting times in your lives? Yeah, it could be a lot worse.

As a wedding photographer who prioritizes real moments, natural expressions and genuine laughter, my goal whenever you’re in front of my camera is to allow you to feel comfortable enough to laugh, cry, smile, kiss, hold hands and embrace the way you would (and do!) when no one’s watching. If there’s anything I hear time and time again, it’s one of these statements:

1. “We’re really awkward.”

2. “My fiance doesn’t like having his/her picture taken.”

3. “We don’t need engagement photos because we already have them / my friend / uncle / sister took them for us right after we got engaged…”

4. “Where should we take them? We don’t live in Baltimore and don’t know any places that would be meaningful to us.”

5. “What should we wear? We’re casual people and it’s not our style to get dressed up.”

I’m excited to share this list of 10 tips with you so that taking engagement photos doesn’t have to be something you dread. Instead, it can and should be fun, memorable and refreshing. If you think of it as just another date night, wouldn’t you jump at the chance to do it?

Without further ado, here are…

10 tips for achieving candid and non-awkWard
engagement photos (in other words, cheesy and overly posed is not my style either)!

Read it, save it and share it… and then read it again right before we meet up. ;)

1. DO YOU. If you take nothing else from this list, stop putting pressure on yourselves to be models or pose a certain way. None of my clients are and NO ONE KNOWS WHAT TO DO WITH THEIR HANDS WHEN THEY START! I’ll worry about how you look in front of the camera and give you tips, direction and confidence as needed, as long as you worry about having fun with your boo.

2. Wear what you feel best in and you will automatically feel less awkward. If your groom doesn’t go anywhere without wearing a hat, bring the hat (we’ll take it off for a few, I promise).

3. Put your ‘fancy’ clothes on. I personally feel that we don’t have enough reasons to get dressed up these days (hellooo, people used to get dressed up to ride trains!), but refer to no. 1... fancy can mean whatever you want it to. Maybe it’s just red and cute heels or new and crisp, dark denim!

4. Bring the champagne. Shake it up… magic! I don’t discriminate though and highly encourage all types of liquid courage to be enjoyed! ;)

5. Don’t wear your Fitbit. Take off your ️Apple watch. Give me your keys (but just remind me I have them when we’re done)!

6. Eat a snack before we start but save the meal for after. No one does well with a grumbly belly and dinner at your favorite spot will give you something to look forward to.

7. Choose your location strategically. Think through the places you’re most comfortable in together and the things you like to do in your free time.

8. Weave in your personality and story. Did you meet in college? College campuses are THE MOST photogenic. Do you brew your own beer? Let’s start at your fave brewery. Was your first date at a winery? Bring a bottle of that wine to enjoy. Do you run together? Let’s stroll the trails. Do you own a ️boat? Tell me when and where and I’m there.

9. Don’t bring extras... as in parents/friends. Unless they’re coming to bring home your pup once we’re done with them, I like being your one and only third wheel. Adding others is when it can actually get awkward.

10. Don’t rush the process. I’ve found one hour to be the sweet spot for getting comfortable and used to having a camera near you, having fun and having a bunch of conversations about anything and everything that will allow your wedding photos to be that much more natural and full of real emotion... because that’s the ultimate goal in the end, right?

After reading all of this, 1. you deserve a sweet treat and a glass of wine and 2. I hope you’re looking forward to your engagement session! If you have any questions, leave them in the comments and I’ll share my thoughts and answers ASAP!

5 tips for a stress-free wedding day

No matter how intimate or lowkey your wedding day plans are, if you’re planning a party and celebration with family/friends from many different seasons of your life, it has the potential to be a stressful, whirlwind experience.

After photographing weddings for the last 7 years, I’ve seen the day organized in so many different ways to learn what works best and what adds stress. In order to ensure your photos and your experience on the big day is the best it can possibly be, I’m happy to share the knowledge I’ve gained for your benefit.

Here are five tips to reduce stress on your wedding day (in no particular order)!

BONUS: if you hire experienced professionals, even the wedding planning process will go more smoothly with these tips for a stress free wedding day in mind!

1. Be strategic about your ceremony start time since it will determine the flow of the rest of the day.

If you plan it well, you can have beautiful portraits of the two of you together while you’re relaxed and excited, not feeling rushed and your hair and makeup is still fresh by choosing to see each other before the ceremony and take advantage of all the benefits of a first look. Not only is it quiet, uninterrupted time for just the two of you, but then you can enjoy the entire cocktail hour since you’ve paid for it and deserve to enjoy a drink and apps with your guests! We’ll also be able to focus on alllll the candid photos of you two (and your guests) since the formal portraits have been taken care of: WIN-WIN!

Also, if all of your formal portraits are done before cocktail hour, we can spend quality time in your reception space capturing all of those details (florals, place-settings, cake, escort cards) that will be untouched by guests and their stuff before they find their seats.

For all of our winter couples, please keep this in mind! It’s almost impossible to get gorgeous naturally lit photos of you after the ceremony (if you don’t do a first look beforehand) unless your ceremony starts super early in the day - which means an earlier wake up call and start time for hair/makeup, since the sun sets so early.

2. TRUST your photographer and the creative eye that comes with their experience.

…and talk through your vision of the day to help you determine the right kind and amount of photography coverage you need!

Do you need 2 photographers?
Generally speaking, if you and your partner are going to be getting ready at 2 completely different locations, you’ll want 2 photographers otherwise moments may be missed while we’re with your other half.

If you have a large bridal party and/or guest list (140+), you’ll want 2 photographers so we can divide and conquer groomsmen/bridesmaid group portraits and then be sure once the reception begins, that one of us is able to focus on candid shots of guests mingling, reacting to speeches/toasts, dancing, etc. while the other is focused on YOU as a couple and the details you’ve spent so long dreaming of and planning for.

Will 8 hours be enough?
9 hours of coverage is the sweet spot for most couples, especially if your wedding takes place in a city where traffic, road closures, races, festivals can/will happen without advanced notice as we travel from the ceremony to reception!

Do you have a special exit planned for the end of the night? …sparklers, a getaway vehicle, petal toss, beach balls, confetti/streamers, glow sticks are all fun options!

Do you have 2-3 locations that we’ll need to travel to throughout the day? ie: getting ready at a hotel/airBnB/your childhood home, a church/beach/park ceremony then a reception at a different venue?

3. The venue coordinator is NOT the same as an experienced and professional event designer / wedding planner.

Hire a professional event planner/coordinator who has your vision and best interests in mind, not the venue’s (and let that close family friend enjoy the day as a guest, despite how much she may enjoy helping you plan and is great at wrangling people)!

If they’ve worked at your venue it’s a bonus, but definitely not necessary. What is necessary is professionalism, good communication skills, and a knowledge of local vendors within the industry that can execute your vision or come through in an emergency. If a planner/coordinator is involved, you may not even know that something happened until you learn about it while on your honeymoon ;) but can you imagine how stressful it will be for you or your family members to troubleshoot if your DJ / officiant / caterer doesn’t show up on time? what if a groomsmen’s pants don’t match the rest of the group and/or 1 set is missing? what if boutonnieres are left at the hotel 45 minutes away? what if there’s a sudden flood / snowstorm? what if the shuttle gets lost and isn’t there on time to transport you, your wedding party and/or all of your guests?

Having a planner on your side means it’s THEIR job to worry and solve any and all of the above circumstances!

4. As much as possible, limit how often people are moving from one venue/site to another.

This affects logistics like the amount of time your photographer/videographer are contracted for, extra costs for shuttles/transportation, clear communication to your guests to ensure no one gets lost or arrives late. Couples that choose one site for everything to take place from start to finish are always less stressed and have more time and mental / physical energy to enjoy the day… not to mention, you’ll have more photos of all the moments since your photographers won’t be spending precious time traveling from one place to another either!

5. Do the da*n photos… as in, take advantage of and enjoy the time you spend on your engagement photos.

I know I’m biased, but I have to say, no one I’ve worked with has ever regretted taking engagement photos. You can read the 6 main reasons why I recommend them HERE, but the reason I mention it as a way to make your wedding day less stressful is because there are so many emotions, thoughts, logistics and personalities coming together that day - the last thing you want to worry about is how to relax and be comfortable in front of the camera. No one should meet the person documenting one of the biggest days of their lives (hopefully it’s me!) for the first time, on their wedding day. In fact, my favorite photos happen when we have a relationship that feels like I’m a friend of yours who happens to show up with a fancy camera. ;) Let all the awkwardness work itself out during your engagement photos, not on your #bestdayever.

Regardless of the flowers, dessert and music, at the end of the day, you’re marrying your soulmate and that is all there is to it. The next day you’ll wake up with a whole new adventure in front of you whether it’s a honeymoon, a new house, a new last name, a new family or simply knowing you’ll always have someone to snuggle next to on the couch while you watch Dateline on Friday nights, because you know, #dontwatchalone. ;)

GROOMS: 3 things to know before your wedding

Let’s be honest… as a groom, you have a lot less on your to-do list than the bride. That doesn’t mean you can’t master the things you do need to know and show up ready to go, ahead of schedule and with time to relax!

Here are 3 things we know you usually don’t think about on the daily, so you may want to practice and wrap your head around them in advance, with plenty of time before your actual wedding day:

1. How to tie your bow tie (watch THIS video and practice in advance!)... or buy a pre-tied one. We won’t tell. Pro Tip: PLEASE don't just start watching YouTube videos the minute we show up!

2. Similarly, how to pin your boutonniere on. Ask your florist for tips on attaching it and/or make sure someone who will be with you while you’re getting ready (either another groomsmen or your mom) has done it before and feels comfortable with that responsibility! The last thing we’d want is to spend time waiting for 10 guys to figure this out and have to help each other get theirs on before we can start taking photos. Your mom is always welcome to pin yours on if she is dressed and can be in the pictures, but help for all the other groomsmen is what we see often lacking and very much needed.  

3. When the photographer is ready to take your getting ready photos, you should be 90% of the way dressed! No one wants photos of you in a t-shirt and boxers on your wedding day. ;)

If you are getting ready in a hotel room and we are starting photos there, all the groomsmen should be fully dressed. As the groom, you should have your shirt and pants on with your tie, shoes, socks (the more fun, the better: colorful stripes? fave sports team? ode to MD?), cuff links, watch and any other meaningful items, in one spot for us to capture right before you put them on. Getting ready photos actually means photographing you as you get your jacket and shoes on, putting the final touches on your tie / cuff links and buttoning your jacket.

If you are meeting us at another location to have your portraits taken (for example, at the spot where you’ll have your first look or even outside the church or venue), then we’ll just capture portraits of you 100% ready to go - adjusting your tie / cuff links and buttoning your jacket make for beautiful and classic getting ready shots.

What NOT to have nearby…

Piles of clothes / bags / food / beverages strewn about. A little tidying up in the room (or corner of the room) that gets the most natural light will go a long way and make your photos that much better!

If you’re able to quickly do all of these things, just think of what it really means: you can pour another glass of bourbon, scotch or grab a can of Natty Boh and relax with the guys. ;)

BRIDES: 3 important details to have with you at your wedding

Over the years of capturing countless weddings, I’ve noticed 3 things that come up time and time again that are small on their own but can make a big difference in your photos, your physical comfort and even your mindset that day.

Brides, here are 3 important things to have with you on your wedding day that you may not have thought of… (ps - a blog post specifically for grooms is coming soon!)

1. A second pair of shoes to wear
   
   This allows you to have your fancy (high heeled!) shoes captured in detail photos and worn during the ceremony but then change into a more comfortable flat or wedge for portrait time and dancing…
   
   Speaking of shoes, if your ceremony is outside and you’ll be walking down a grassy aisle with you or your ‘maids wearing heels, make sure to get heel protectors so you don’t sink in the grass!

Sparkly Badgley Mischkas or any of Kate Spade’s wedding shoes are always a classic way to go!

2. A nice hanger or a thoughtful way to display your dress if it’s more than 1 piece

I always bring a solid white wood hanger with me for your dress in case you don't have one, but use this as a fun excuse for something your friends or family can gift you that will definitely be captured in detail photos!

I’m LOVING these simple, solid gold (or rose gold) hangers and in gun metal for the guys!

3. Knowledge of how the bustle of your dress works

Pro tip: Take a video of it while at your last dress fitting so you have a reference when it comes time to bustle it after the ceremony; you won't want to be away from your guests for 20 minutes trying to figure it out and remember how it works - who wants to miss that precious time at cocktail hour?!

The best bustle I've ever seen was done so intuitively: the seamstress color coded the loops and buttons that were supposed to be matched and connected together so it only took 3 seconds to do. Why aren’t they all done like that?!

And what NOT to have with you…

• a hair band / FitBit / AppleWatch on you or your bridesmaids wrists. This dark black line/square distracts from the beauty of your photos and time/steps are not what you should be worrying about on that day! (…this also applies during your engagement photos and maybe even more so, then)

• Your phone. It goes without saying (I hope), but this is the one day EVERYONE else will document for you... and instead of a device, you should be present and either hold your spouse's hand, a drink or your bouquet. ;)

Hope this helps ensure your best day ever is that much more comfortable, beautiful and easy to manage in the final weeks leading up to the big day!

7 tips for taking better candid engagement photos

So, you said YES (or you asked someone if they’d say yes) and now you’re engaged! Once you’ve had a chance to pop multiple bottles and share the news with everyone, the first official act of your new status as an engaged couple may be to take your engagement photos… the most common concern I hear as a photographer is that you don’t take good photos together / hate having your photo taken / want candid moments together that don’t look posed or staged…

I get it! No one is naturally photogenic when told to “SMILE!”… seriously think about it. I’d rather ask people to lick noses since that elicits more of a genuine expression than asking you to smile on command ever will. ;)

Here are 7 do’s and don’ts that hopefully help get you in the right mindset when it comes to taking photos together!

Do feel confident.
Shop for a fun new outfit or go to an old classic you know you love the way you look in. Make an appointment to get pampered (meaning, scheduling a hair/makeup trial for the day of your engagement session can kill 2 birds with 1 stone!) if it’ll give you an extra boost of confidence. If not, just do you!!

Don’t worry about how you look.
That’s my job. I’ll tell you if something’s out of place and remind you to empty your pockets. ;) You don’t have to be models! The quality and range of emotion real couples have and want to celebrate together, is why I love what I do.

Do think of our time together as a rehearsal for your wedding day.
Having casual and everyday photos of you both that aren’t phone selfies is wonderful and something I think more couples should absolutely have, but the main goal of our time together is to get to know each other. I want to feel like a good friend that happens to have a professional camera by the time you’re saying ‘I Do’… not some random person you can’t remember the name of who asks you to smile in my direction. I want to see how affectionate you naturally are together and learn what inside jokes you make that result in nose crinkling laughter and eyes smiling so brightly, it’s unmistakable that your love is unique and special.

Don’t worry if one of you is more enthusiastic about taking photos than the other.
Just being a good sport and going along with the crazy ideas your fiance has or the prompts that may be out of your comfort zone will encourage them to love you that much more for it… and if nothing else, will earn you a beer right after we’re done.

Do hold hands.
Touch noses, faces, fingers, hips, hair, neck. Seriously, you’re getting married! You found your person!!

Don’t overthink it.
If thinking of it as a photoshoot makes you nervous, think of it as a date and pretend I’m not there!

Do eat before (nothing good happens on an empty stomach) and drink during.
I’m a huge supporter of liquid courage in whatever form that takes! We can start at your favorite bar, break open champagne when we start or enjoy a fun cocktail halfway through... why not?

Don’t look at Pinterest poses.
The light, the location and your love are not the same as that super posed adorable couple who’s flowing hair took more time and setup to capture than it looks like. However, this leads right into my next tip…

Do communicate if you have a strong vision for what you want.
I love it when couples not only choose a location with meaning but also have an idea of the kind of images they want out of their engagement photos. Are you an outgoing couple that want your photos to reflect a lot of movement and more candid action? Or are you most comfortable at home in a more private spot to allow you to be comfortable getting cuddly and close together while barefoot and quiet?

Don’t lose sight of why you’re doing this in the first place.
You met online… or at college… or at work… or at a bar during a night out with mutual friends. However the stars aligned, the fact is that they DID. Millions of tiny decisions, conversations and choices lead up to the moment you met and when you stop to think about it all, it’s pretty miraculous and deserves to be celebrated.

Do bring your dog!
I’ve captured the fastest moving hyper little pup and the sassiest 100lb. Great Danes. I was a boxer mom, we have 2 kids and I have plenty of experience and tricks up my sleeve. Besides, slobbery wet kisses make for the best expressions!

Don’t choose a location you’re not comfortable in or familiar with.
Meaning and good vibes are everything. Your location should hold both... and if you can’t think of the perfect spot, I’m happy to share my favorites that may resonate with you!

Do embrace your awkwardness.
At least for the first 10 minutes. It means you care and you’re doing it right... I promise. Remember your first date? Pretty sure those first 10 minutes were awkward too... and look how that ended up.

Don’t bring an audience.
Other than a friend or family member meeting us to help take the dog home if you bring yours, this is one situation that is best as a party of 3.

6 tips for timeless getting ready wedding day photos

The most stunning getting ready photos are full of incredibly emotional moments that often have had a lot more thought go into them than you may realize... after 8 years of capturing weddings, the question I get asked the most is related to how much time to allow for these photos. While answering that question with a number is helpful (approximately 3.5-4 hours +/- before the ceremony is when I like to arrive at your getting ready location, FYI), there's so much more to it than just a portion of time! Here are some critical lessons I've learned, in the hopes that it'll help with your planning and create a seamless and relaxing getting ready experience!

1. Location, location, location... there's no such thing as too much natural light!!!

Spacious rooms are great, but if I had to choose between a large space and one with many large windows, it would definitely be the latter. Of course, spacious AND well-lit would be a photographer's dream, but prioritize the light and let it guide you. ;)  When light is coming in from various angles, it washes you in a softness that compliments everyone and gives your images that dreamy, ethereal quality.

Bonus points if the area right against the window is clear and open - standing close to the light source is ideal.  If there are a few items to move out of the way, having your bridesmaids help relocate these items would be a great thing to do before your photographer arrives!

And if you need to remove a ladybug on your dress, consider it good luck. :)

2. Clean the clutter... create a zone.

Time during a wedding day is precious and if we spend a good portion of our time cleaning up, it means less time for photos of you. Throw away trash; hide suitcases, boxes against a far corner or under the bed, move extra clothes and shoes into the closet. Keep things organized to allow us to capture photos quickly.

A good rule of thumb is to have your girls monitor a sort of 'bride zone' closest to the window; this zone should remain free and clear of any stuff (which can quickly accumulate!) so that we can photograph there and bring different people in and out of the photos as you transform into the stunning bride we all can't wait to see!

3. Designate a 'holder of all the things'... everything in ONE place (generally).

The last thing we'd want to happen is to be missing important items from all your bridal details! I've found it most helpful if you can designate one person who knows where everything is or better yet, gathers everything into one place for me to start shooting right when I arrive. The list may include some or all of these: the rings, jewelry, perfume, heirloom photos/prayer books, hairpiece, veil, shoes, garter, letters/gifts and bouquet.

If you happen to have a special hanger you'd like your dress photographed on, ask your bridesmaids to take your dress out and hang it up on the hanger prior to your photographer's arrival - steaming it (if necessary) would be a great thing to do early on too since a dress shot is one of the first details a photographer will capture.

4. Don't forget your man... and all of his details.

Oh yeah, your groom...  it may seem silly to think that you'd forget about him, but what I really mean is, his details deserve some thought too. Those are what you both may forget to plan ahead for, especially if you're getting ready in different physical locations/buildings. Be sure someone is accountable for his cologne, boutonniere (and all of the guys' flowers for that matter), ties/bowties, letters/gifts, watch and cufflinks! He may not know how to tie his bowtie and that's ok... (that's what The Art of Manliness is for!) and it makes for fun photos when all the guys band together to figure out how to make it happen. ;)

Protip: EMPTY your pockets, gentlemen. No need for bulging, unflattering pockets.

5. EAT, drink and be merry... you have a long, important day ahead!

Amongst all the excitement, fun and memorable moments, please don't forget to eat and drink (mimosa, water, repeat...) while you're getting ready! The last thing we want is for you to get to your ceremony and realize you feel lightheaded and haven't eaten anything all day. Hours fly by like minutes (trust me!) - so if there are snacks and hydration available, be sure to indulge! You've made it this far, so I think you've earned at least a cookie or two.

6. Enjoy yourself... it's not everyday you get treated like royalty.

Trust that we will capture not only gorgeous details, but candid moments as well. For timeless, authentic and classic getting ready photos, it's important that you relax, take it all in and enjoy each element as it unfolds; we will be sure to ask if we need anything from you. Put on some music (whatever makes you loosen up!), keep a sense of humor and sip some champagne...

7. BONUS TIP! Ask your photographer for advice with timing... we've done this more than once. ;)

Start your day by looking out the window and taking a deep breath. On my wedding day, a hurricane was rolling in (no joke!); it was cloudy, thick and gray outside. I was in a hotel room with my sister and after tears started forming since I wasn't going to have the bright and sunny day that every bride wants, she helped me realize it didn't matter. We were working with talented photographers that were going to capture the beauty and emotion of the day no matter what! Some things are out of your control for a reason... remember that.

Please use us for all of our acquired knowledge over the years! I'd highly recommend reaching out to your photographer if you have any timing concerns or specific shots/moments you want captured as you're getting ready (looking forward to a father/daughter first look? We'll need to build in time for that, so it's definitely worth a mention!). They also may have suggestions based on your getting ready location, if they've photographed there before.

What types of questions do you have about the early portion of your wedding day? Ask away in the comments!

xo, Naomi