1. Special Visits Before The Ceremony
After ten years of photographing weddings, I’ve seen a LOT! From a couples’ unity deadlift (yes-heavy weights) during the ceremony, to releasing doves, singing to one another, but one of my favorite memories each time is when people carve out special time with their grandparents. There have been many times we have swung by a house or a nursing home for couples to visit their grandparents for a fulfilling, special time. And I capture those moments without anyone hardly knowing I’m there.
2. Create Your Own Special Moment In The Ceremony
I LOVE seeing people add special activities during their ceremony to make them feel more “them”. No idea is too out there. I’ve seen a “couples’ unity deadlift” (yes – they lifted giant, heavy weights) during the ceremony.
Singing to one another, foot washing, releasing doves, planting trees are just a few unique ideas that can add to your already so special ceremony.
When you bring a touch of personalization it not only makes for a fun memory, but also enhances the special ceremony.
What are things you love to do together? Any hidden talents? What symbolizes the promises you are making today?
All fun things to think about. And no idea will be the exact same–or end up looking the same–because no couple is ever the same.
3. Visit A Sentimental Location
Your visit doesn’t have to take long, but consider making plans to visit a location that is super special to you.
Photos at a sentimental location enhances the overall feeling of your day and immerses you into a snuggly, deep sense of joy.
Just stepping under that tree or sliding into that booth can bring back all the feels of your first date, or when you first said “I love you”, or even the place when you realized you were going to be together forever.
Your heart will remember…and it will show.
Let’s capture some moments on your family land or your backyard. Even a quick bounce on your childhood trampoline can stir up amazing memories, and fill you with gratitude and nostalgia.
4. Make Time For Some Fun Activities With Your Friends
Why not plan some special time for you and your favorite friends? I’ve seen a lot of clever options where everyone gets some time to just relax and have a great time. What special activity would you love?
You can get after it early with mimosas and getting your nails done, or add some silliness to the day with a round of “horse” at your favorite basketball hoop, or slip off to shoot some blue rock, take a few swings at the golf course, or even bowl for a strike. You’re with your besties so you can’t lose.
5. Add An Activity For You And Your Guests
Pretty much everyone loves a wedding ceremony! We come together and witness such love and joy! But you can give your guests an experience beyond the “I do’s”.
How about an opportunity for them to:
- Blow bubbles
- Play with sparklers
- Fill out advice cards
- Watch a fireworks show
- Try their guesses at bride & groom trivia game
- Play yard games or board games.
Or even a late night food surprise to “boost” the fun for your guests–s’mores, food truck, ice cream sundaes– plus it’s a bonus opportunity to get more amazing photos.
6. Include Your Pets
No matter your age, a furry friend brings out your child at heart. More couples are including their pets on their special day. And nobody is mad about it!
Whether it’s your dog as the ring bearer, a snuggle with your cat, or riding your horse a few rounds, it’s so fun to add that extra four-legged love to your day.
It may seem like a lot of logistics to make it happen, but you have tons of people who want to help! Just ask.
7. Surprise Your Family With Memorable Activities
I’ll never forget this moment: one of my brides surprised her dad during their daddy/daughter dance with fishing poles.
Instead of a dance, they ran down the hill to a pond. They will never forget it–because I caught it all (and I didn’t even need any bait). She said it was one of her favorite parts of the day.
Can’t think of anything that feels like you? Drawing a blank on ways to customize an activity for your day? Ask your photographer! I absolutely love dreaming of ways to add personalized details/activities to your day! (And then capturing the joy that comes with each one.)
There is no one like you. Every moment will be unique because you are! Have fun with it! I’m sure you will!