A tip about unplugged weddings: Don't call them unplugged weddings! I found out really quickly in my wedding planning process that NO ONE knew what that phrase meant. Maybe it's just part of where I'm from, but no one knew what it meant. I'm getting married on May 18, 2019 and I've printed wedding programs that say, "We kindly ask that no cell phones or cameras be out during the ceremony. Our hired videographers and photographers are here to capture this occasion. Please join us afterward for our reception where cell phones and cameras are welcome." And then I'm also going to have my officiant mention the no cell phone thing before the ceremony begins. Fingers crossed that this all works!
Melissa Deitrick yes it did! And I’m sooo glad that I was explicit because the photographer captured some AMAZING photos that otherwise would have been ruined from people sticking their arms out in the aisle.
And “unplugged” can mean different things - if I just saw unplugged I wouldn’t be sure if it meant no phones/cameras, or no posting on socials as well. (I wouldn’t post until I knew it was ok but others may not think the same as me). I’m just going to have the officiant announce it, as I am thinking of having a friend doing some sort of livestream for relatives that can’t make it. So officiant can say “no phones or photos except for xxx who is filming for grandpa”
But surely money is the biggest factor here right? "I had my aunt do the engagement photos" screams to me "I don't have the money to hire a photographer twice" I don't have the money to "build a relationship" with the photographer or the wedding planner. I don't mean to throw shade but I'm sick of wedding advice which essentially boils down to: spend more money
TheEmmaHouli I totally agree with this but a lot photographers will have engagement session as part of the package so maybe research and find a photographer that includes engagement session in their package!
This doesn't at all have to be the case. In a lot of the scenarios where I see this, someone's family member or friend was pushy and really wanted to take the photos for them and they agreed. It's almost never a money case. That wouldn't make much sense because they're hiring someone for the wedding day and often it can include engagement photos. Also, you could easily just go to coffee with the photographer and spend only $4 if the engagement was really too much. :)
@@cavinelizabeth I searched through over 30 photographers and they all costed about $800 to $1000 more for the engagement photos to be "included" in the package. At the cheapest it was about $200-$300 extra. The only thing I could afford was a bridal session and wedding day package at about $1900. With the engagements it would have been $2200, so I had an uncle take them. What can ya do.
What was the different between the uncle's work and the wedding photographer's work? Some photographer will understand your situation and work with you, but you have to be open and honest. I used the engagement as a practice shoot. It is a moment to know the client because not everyone is camera-friendly. The engagement shoot help me to adjust and get myself ready for the wedding day. I completely agree with Miss Elizabeth . Do the engagements shoot with the same photographer because it will help the photographer on your wedding day.
I’m SUPER passionate about unplugged ceremonies. At my mother’s wedding last year, my uncle was literally in the aisle snapping photos and taking video and he wasn’t the videographer.... it was so brutal. And then during the formal photo session after the ceremony, my photographer (I’m using the same photographer as my mother because I’ve known her for years) was trying to take photos and my family members were literally like “hey can you get out of the shot we’re trying to take a photo on my phone...” and I was like “OH HECK NO”! My family was definitely the main offenders. So I sent them all a message the other day saying “hey! For the ceremony, just so you know, it’s unplugged so no phones and cameras. Also, during formal portrait time, no photos on personal cameras and phones because I’m on a time schedule for the reception and I’m going to be ready to party so I want to get these photos done as quickly as possible so we can get to partying”. Sometimes, you have to be direct. Especially if you know your family. My photographer really really appreciated it.
@@JamieWolfer pros cons of different venues (home, restaurant, cater, DIY food?), etiquette?, how to steer extraneous speeches away from wedding day and towards rehearsal dinner.
@@JamieWolfer I would love ideas for informal/smaller rehearsal dinners or "pre-wedding gatherings" for couples who don't actually need a rehearsal. We aren't even having our honor attendants stand up with us, wear matching clothes, hold bouquets, etc. We don't need to rehearse, but we'd love some ideas of how to get together beforehand with the VIPs (a gathering in place of the rehearsal dinner, but with no rehearsal and a more simple, laidback vibe).
Oh! I never thought of that with people having different photographers for the engagement shoot and the wedding day! But it makes so much sense to have the same person AND it is totally like a rehearsal period for you guys.
My mum took our engagement pictures and they were lovely. But as I am uncomfortable about having my picture taken I did want an opportunity to „practice“ with my photographer. So i‘ve booked a mother / daughter photo shooting with the wedding photographer on the day of my make up trial :) that way I can give my mum a gift as a thank you (including a hair and make up appointment for mum), meet the photographer and see what the hair and makeup will look like in photos.
You are amazing! I was wondering if you could do a video on non-traditional activities for a reception. My fiancé and I don’t want to do the garter/bouquet toss and other traditional aspects of the ceremony but would like to have some planned moments/activities during the ceremony. Any ideas?
Ahhhh that is like the best suggestion because I am having the same issue! I can't find alternative options that aren't lame, like board games? Really? And I think the garter toss is so creepy!
Same here. We are not doing a bouquet toss or garter. Since we are having a lot of kids at the wedding, we were thinking of a teddy bear toss or like a pinata filled with candy but I would love other ideas!
I've seen the shoe game at a lot of weddings. That's often a hit. In lots of cultures, it's common for wedding guests to perform little songs, dances, or skits in honor of the couple!
I get the whole don’t worry about getting your dress dirty, but I’m in the opinion of if I spent 5,000+ on a dress I’m not gonna want to go stomping through dirt or mud
I wish we had thought more before booking engagement photos. We ended up getting engagement photos (being unhappy with many of them- bra sticking out of my dress, posting a photo where I was leaning back and somehow look heavily pregnant- I found out these photos had been posted when two family members messaged me freaking out and so upset for me). We booked our wedding photographer and were so happy to get another engagement session done with the photographer we booked for our wedding and she is wonderful.
I understand the unplugged part and how important it is for the photographer. I followed that rule for my sister-in-law wedding. Took no pictures, no selfies. Until I got to see the wedding pictures and I'm nowhere in it. I do not have a single picture of me at the wedding. (And I was at the main table !...). Of COURSE I was not the main subject lol but hair, dress, boyfriend, pictures with the newly weds, I have absolutely nothing but memories, because they asked the photographer to take pics of the "real" family, and seeing as I'm not married yet to her brother, I guess I'm not real family for her since she asked to have only her brother on the pics and not me. Dancefloor, party, dinner, I have absolutely no pics and when I look back it's as if I wasnt even invited. So even if I have the memory in my mind, I honestly wish I had taken a few pics with my phone, because it makes me feel sad. Maybe the best compromise would be for some parts to be unplugged and then allow a time to take pics on the phone !
Estelle Dupont i like the idea of the unplugged part for the ceremony only because of the ideas of the pictures being full of people looking at their phones. My bfs sister got married last August and she sent me the package that she got of photos and tbh it looks bad that everybody is on their phone. I didn’t really take any pictures with the bride and groom except for family photos. I can’t imagine what it must feel not being involved in at least one picture or be included like family. I was in the family picture and that’s the only picture I have with them so I’m glad for that. I believe that the completely unplugged wedding is a bit rude, at least just the ceremony but even when the photographer isn’t taking pictures you should’ve had the opportunity to have at least one
oh no that's awful! Unplugged weddings usually only refer to the ceremony, at least in my recommendation. It's the time when guest phones have the most impact and not in a good way. Thankfully guest phones are never really an issue outside of that time!
For my bf's brothers wedding, (it was a Hindu wedding and the ceremony and reception was diff days) I couldn't make it to the ceremony but I was there for the reception.. The only picture I have with his bro and sis in law is 1 official picture with me, my bf and his bro and bro's wife.. That's it and my bf is lucky enough to be in some family pictures but other than that he isn't in any of the others.. I wish I had taken some selfies with us.. The official pic didn't come out that good too 😕
Sometimes if you asked the photographer he/she may be kind enough to take your phone for a couple seconds to take some photos of you with the family, that’s what I had the photographer do for my bf’s older brothers wedding and have very professional & beautiful pictures with him and his family 💖
I understand that the photographer wants to do the engagement session, but ours lives out of state and with their popularity they did not have any openings. So, we were forced to go elsewhere. Was such a bummer because I was so looking forward to meeting them prior to the wedding. It's not always just to the bride/groom who are trying to get a deal elsewhere or what have you, sometimes their schedules simply don't align and that's ok :)
Would you suggest a list for family photos, that way your wranglers can make sure the next group of people is ready? Or does that crimp your style as a photographer?
I always make a few suggestions for them to choose from and then ask for a list. That's the only part of the day I need a "shot list" for and it's so helpful!
Two things to add to a terrific video: the unplugged ceremony announcement goes on the e-mail too, and getting names and faces to your photographer helps so we can address more people by name. Ok one more: If there first time your photographer sees your venue is the day of the wedding you've hired an amateur.
Jim's videos love the email announcement too. I would say though that the venue part isn’t always the case. Especially as destination shooting is very popular, many photographers can’t see the venue until the morning of the wedding and scout then. They can definitely do an amazing job :)
@@cavinelizabeth Chances are though by the time you can get a destination job you'll have done enough of them that a walkthrough that morning is enough. I appreciate your taking the time to help Jamie with this; I've done enough to understand a little of how much I still have to learn!
Hello Jamie, your video is super helpful. My wedding will be in early June. I have been relying on your vedio for planning my wedding during the last six months. Could you do a similar video sharing what videographers want the new couples to know. Thanks a bunch!
My daughter and her fiancée got engaged in Edinburgh Scotland. He had arranged for a photographer to take pictures and they were amazing. We then hired our wedding photographer here in Dallas who then took new engagement photos that were amazing. She will be doing the Bridal portrait and the Wedding. All of the family pictures will be taken the day of the wedding right after the First Look is done in our church. The Bride and Groom will be the first ones to the reception site and will have a little alone time before presenting themselves to their guests and then they will get shots with friends and extended family. Cocktail hour will be short and the party can begin. It makes everyone much happier and no waiting around for the bridal party.
We have a different photographer for our wedding from our engagement shoot. We got engaged in Hawaii (we are from Australia) and did our engagement shot 3 days after our engagement whilst still overseas. Love the concept and it’s completely understand it, but it doesn’t always work!
It totally can though! I have had some destination couples do their engagement session with me 2-3 days before the wedding once they were in town and it was incredible!
Yes, I thought of having a pre-trial run for engagement photos before this video. I think pictures are the most important thing about a wedding- it’s really the only memory you have. I am researching and looking at every photo. There are photographers i see that are not adventurous, take boring photos, and unflattering. I’m looking at everything. Why, because I was careless for my quince and it was the WORST photos. I’ll never have that day again and stuck with mediocre pictures for life. And yes!! I don’t care about my dress at all! I want pictures in the water(we are in Fl) planning to have my wedding on top of the water by a lighthouse.💕
I hired the same lady who did my stepdaughter's senior photos. I adored her. We talked so much that day. We talked a lot in between that day and the day I hired her. She was a super cool lady and I loved her work!!
What suggestions do you have for how to bond with a new photographer? My fiancé and I had engagement photos already from his mom's photographer friend. That session is how I learned that I wanted a different photographer for our wedding. I love the new photographer we chose! When we met with her I instantly felt comfortable and was able to tell her what I liked and fidnt like about my last experience. She offered another photo session as part of her package even though we had engagement photos... should we do them again? We dont have kids or pets so a family session is out. =/
Hey Jamie! I just found your channel and I've watched every video already lol. Your personality + your good ideas make your content pure gold. Thanks for all the awesome advice. I'm in the throws of wedding planning right now. I would LOVE if you did podcasts (or longer videos) on wedding topics. I could listen to you chat about weddings alllll day. I've found myself turning on your videos and just listening while I drive around town. Hope you consider it! :)
This is so good! At my brother's wedding, we didn't have a planner or coordinator, and the photographer was an amateur so the family photos did not turn out very great because the photographer totally had to put on so many hats in order to get all of the family members organized and be where they need to be for photos. (sorry for the run on sentence!) Great advice, I will definitely keep these tips in mind for the future.
I’d love to know how this went! Specifically with vendors and guest list attendance... we have a FREE venue at a beautiful wine vineyard 6 hours away and I’m feeling like we won’t be able to have it there and have everyone :( currently looking at other venues because of this and man are they pricey. It’s been an incredible impact on even headcount and food...
I watched this a few days and I can’t stop thinking about it. I completely love your videos, Jamie, but I think some of the advice about following your photographer’s bidding is a little off. (I am also a wedding vendor.) I find that sometimes couples can be really uncomfortable with following these instructions. It’s not just about getting your attire a bit dirty, I’ve seen photographers ask their clients to walk through snake ridden tall grass. Or climb gates and fences or boulders, as you suggest. It sometimes ends badly and people get hurt! Especially if people are clumsy or accident prone! Now partly this is a case of picking your vendors carefully. But many times couples don’t feel like they can say no to instructions from the photographer, who often has an almost revered position on the day, whatever they say goes.
Had a photographer ask all these questions, built a relationship and she understood exactly what I wanted.... then quoted me base fee $4500 plus tax (Canadian so 13%) ... I'm sorry didn't know I was talking to a robber!!! Talked to another one, more hrs and only 2000. Why do vendors think they can rob people?
Our ceremony experience is different from our reception. One is very light, airy and beachy but the other is a 1940s USO theme. What things should I be looking for in a photographer's gallery? Thank you for another great video and introducing us to Cavin. I have enjoyed her channel.
This video couldn't have come at a better time! I'm in the process of finding the perfect photographer for my wedding. Could you make a video about dress shopping? Shopping for the dress is the part I'm least excited about.
Planning my wedding now and the way I see it with unplugged ceremony is why do I want to spend a good amount of money for professional photos to have other people taking their own pictures on an iPhone. I will 100% be doing an unplugged ceremony I want people to be in the moment.
So basically, spend more money and more money. Most of us cannot afford a professional photographer, an assistant, and a wedding planner. It's sad that so many in the wedding industry just keep pricing their services out of reach of normal people.
Someone online had this idea we're definitely going to use where there's an announced photo OP during the ceremony (by both signs and the officiant.) That way, people have the photo itch scratched and the phones are still away for most of the ceremony.
I want to say thank you to the photographer here for mentioning that some weddings are Groom and Groom or Bride and Bride. It may seem a small thing, but when you're watching a bunch of wedding videos and constantly hearing "Bride and Groom" (which, I get it, ok) it's so refreshing to occasionally have a reminder that people realize that weddings like yours ALSO exist.
Very informative, love this video. Can you please make a video for What Photographer can advice to wedding decorator/ planner for good lighting shots. Thanks....
LOVED this video! Photography has been the thing that I’ve stressed about the most and this was so helpful. I would love a video with some ideas for kid friendly activities at a Reception please!
How to solve the problem of photographer when having a destination wedding? Great idea with unplugged ceremony. I Should take notes, like the sunset photos in the vineyard. Need to do that. But timing wise I think it would be difficult.
I had to change photographers unfortunately due to finances however we were able to get my step sister who is thankfully just as good as a professional photographer but as sad as i am about the photographer i am excited to have personal photos done by a family Member
Same, we didn't bother with "engagement photos" and a friend of mine is doing the photographery. Honestly I think your budget is way more important than anything else. All I want for my wedding is to wake up debt free the next day
We did have our engagement photos threw the first photographer and they turned out amazing so i would definitely send other people her way we just had to think of the budget
Omg that so so helpful!! Thanks for this video! My sis just got married and the photographer had the worst time cause my sis decided spontaneously that she wanted group shots and it was so hectic. Thanks to your videos I will already make so many less mistakes ❤️❤️❤️❤️
That's one of my biggest worries is people taking pictures and posting them on social media. We're hiring a photographer for that job not anyone else. (Its probably gonna be my petpeeve at my wedding lol)
#1 I always look forward to your videos! #2 my cuz just announced her wedding date and I sent her your TH-cam link #3 this is for me, I decided to do the photoshoot with the wedding party before the ceremony and do the family during cocktail hour. Do you find that to be easier on the photographer? One last thing, taking random group shots during cocktail hour is better than doing group table shots? Thanks
Hi ladies, I have a question.. I would LOVE to have a day of coordinator but I live in a small town, the nearest big city is Denver and it's over 4 hours away. We don't have coordinators and planners near my region, so how do I go about this?
Hi Jamie, is it weird to ask the photographer to change how they edit their photos? I noticed that a lot of photographers nowadays tend to have a very "warm", "yellow-ish" editing style (sorry I have no idea what it's called) and I'm not super into it. Their porfolios are on point beautiful but that's the only issue I have. I like the more colorful styles but the photographers I found who edits their pic the style I like don't have very good skill (or at least it's not how I like my pictures to be captured). So I'm just wondering if it's rude to ask photographers to change how they edit their photos
I have a lot of photographer friends and their editing style is their signature. Asking a photographer to change their editing is not respectful, you’ll need to search extra hard for a photographer that edits photos the way you like them.
@@vivianen5360 thank you for your reply! That's what I was thinking as well and I don't mean to be disrespectful to the photographers. Good to know so I won't do that haha
Hi Jamie, Love from South Africa ! Your videos have helped me PLENTY through out my planning process, and still is! ... please can you do a vid on Rehearsal dinners and why it’s needed or why it’s not? Struggling to decide on whether we should do one or not. Have literally 1 brides maid and my lovely groom also only has 1. So why is it needed ?????? Ahhhhhh wedding planning stresss 😖🤪😁
Super helpful! What do you guys know about george street photo? I'm a little nervous now because I haven't even met our photographer or videographer yet. We won't meet them until the day of the wedding.
Great tips to have, so informative! I'm just starting to look for photographers so this is perfectly timed and so helpful! Also, love your make-up here Jamie, especially your eyes :)
My fiancé and I have been engaged for four years and are tying the knot this October. We had engagement photos done a year into our engagement but the photographers shut their business down and our photos looked horrid. We didn’t do an engagement shoot with our wedding photographer mainly because we had already done them and because my fiancé and I are paying for this wedding completely on our own and are very limited with a budget. But now I’m worried the photographer doesn’t feel close to us or know us well enough and I’m starting to regret not doing one even though I know our budget wouldn’t allow it.
It'll be ok without doing one, but I would try to see if you could make it work or at least have a lunch or coffee date with them. That's always a great alternative if you can't budget for more photos :)
I'm Indian and I feel like we have many ceremonies and many relatives love to see their pictures and share it with other families that may live in other areas (india/london/ toronto etc) so for them, it's really important. I also think that having a compromise is really important, because yes I really want to have amazing pictures ... but I also know I would get in trouble with my family if they didn't get any pictures. I'm a single pringle atm but my idea is to announce no phones during actual ceremonies but to have simple photobooths set up where families can get pictures. Just to paint a picture we have a ceremony where relatives sing songs and gather around you while they take turns applying this turmeric paste onto your skin to make it clear for the day of the wedding. I would leave it up to the professionals to capture this moment, but have a dedicated spot for cousins and relatives to take pictures with each other, and me after the ceremony. I totally understand Jamie's and the photographer's perspective though because at most American style weddings you only have that one ceremony and reception to truly capture beautiful pictures.
Great point!👌 If you live in the States, it might be effective to hire a photographer that specializes in Indian weddings. Or, if you live in India, I suppose that would be ALL photographers 😉 Someone that has worked non-W.A.S.P. weddings might be a good choice.
I just want to find a photographer who specializes in interracial couples because our lighting problems can be tricky. Do I lose my nose with a flash or is he just eyes and teeth? How can we both look awesome?
What's your advice for brides like myself with LOATHE having their pictures taken. I hate being in photos and then I act awkward. I did do facetime with my photographer prior to hiring him so I do feel comfortable. But if there was no photos of me I am not sure if I'd mind. But the fiance is wanting wedding photos.
Hi! I've been tuning into a lot of your videos and have picked up so much useful information, Thank for you that! As far as photographers go, I am having a destination wedding. What would you recommend for photos in that sense? I have my wedding planner on site in Hawaii but I don't live there myself. My finace's family does which is why we're getting married there but because of that we're considering not doing engagement photos at all.
My photographer who did our engagement shoot wont be able to come to our wedding because she's due a couple of weeks before hand. We've hired a new one, met with her, like her, but we have don't really know if we should do a second engagement shoot with the new girl. It seems excessive to have that many photos, but I also want to get to know her better. Thoughts?
Ladies I need HELP, I hired a wedding coordinator and designer. She made our wedding invitations, not of us noticed it until I've sent most of them out but instead of Jason (he's the groom) it says Jacob. I basically texted the wedding planner saying hey I'm getting new invitations I changed the RSVP date to make the time, this is why. She then argued with me about how it's my fault I didn't catch it. I agree, I should have. But, I really don't think it should have been an argument. Only after did she apologize when I had to design new invitations, get them reprinted, pay to get them reprinted, remail them, and do damage control for all the pissed of family members. Keep the current wedding coordinator or find a new one? My main gripe is how she handled this conversation, I don't feel it was professional or understanding
Sadie Ann Find a new one! If she gets like that over something like that which is clearly her fault then it could be baddd on the day with others and people managing
I completely understand why it’s better to have engagement pictures with the wedding photographer, but I really want to have engagement pictures in another state than where the photographer is located. Any suggestions?!
Have them fly out if feasible. If they're not too far, they might even be able to fly in and out same day to avoid hotel costs. Or do an engagement again with them a few days before the wedding when you're in the same state. I've done that before and it's so helpful. There are always ways to make it work and I fully suggest doing so :)
Did anyone else notice that the things next to the speed limit sign look like they spell out “VOW”?
lharstad93 omg, @Jamie was that intentional?!
A tip about unplugged weddings: Don't call them unplugged weddings! I found out really quickly in my wedding planning process that NO ONE knew what that phrase meant. Maybe it's just part of where I'm from, but no one knew what it meant. I'm getting married on May 18, 2019 and I've printed wedding programs that say, "We kindly ask that no cell phones or cameras be out during the ceremony. Our hired videographers and photographers are here to capture this occasion. Please join us afterward for our reception where cell phones and cameras are welcome." And then I'm also going to have my officiant mention the no cell phone thing before the ceremony begins. Fingers crossed that this all works!
Great idea!
Did it work??
Melissa Deitrick yes it did! And I’m sooo glad that I was explicit because the photographer captured some AMAZING photos that otherwise would have been ruined from people sticking their arms out in the aisle.
And “unplugged” can mean different things - if I just saw unplugged I wouldn’t be sure if it meant no phones/cameras, or no posting on socials as well. (I wouldn’t post until I knew it was ok but others may not think the same as me).
I’m just going to have the officiant announce it, as I am thinking of having a friend doing some sort of livestream for relatives that can’t make it. So officiant can say “no phones or photos except for xxx who is filming for grandpa”
I'm definitely going to do this! thank you for sharing & updating us on how it went😊❤
But surely money is the biggest factor here right? "I had my aunt do the engagement photos" screams to me "I don't have the money to hire a photographer twice"
I don't have the money to "build a relationship" with the photographer or the wedding planner.
I don't mean to throw shade but I'm sick of wedding advice which essentially boils down to: spend more money
TheEmmaHouli I totally agree with this but a lot photographers will have engagement session as part of the package so maybe research and find a photographer that includes engagement session in their package!
This doesn't at all have to be the case. In a lot of the scenarios where I see this, someone's family member or friend was pushy and really wanted to take the photos for them and they agreed. It's almost never a money case. That wouldn't make much sense because they're hiring someone for the wedding day and often it can include engagement photos. Also, you could easily just go to coffee with the photographer and spend only $4 if the engagement was really too much. :)
@@cavinelizabeth I searched through over 30 photographers and they all costed about $800 to $1000 more for the engagement photos to be "included" in the package. At the cheapest it was about $200-$300 extra. The only thing I could afford was a bridal session and wedding day package at about $1900. With the engagements it would have been $2200, so I had an uncle take them. What can ya do.
What was the different between the uncle's work and the wedding photographer's work? Some photographer will understand your situation and work with you, but you have to be open and honest. I used the engagement as a practice shoot. It is a moment to know the client because not everyone is camera-friendly. The engagement shoot help me to adjust and get myself ready for the wedding day. I completely agree with Miss Elizabeth . Do the engagements shoot with the same photographer because it will help the photographer on your wedding day.
Elise Hanson oh wow that’s cheap! photographers where I live average their cheapest package at 3k & that’s AVERAGE so not all.
I’m SUPER passionate about unplugged ceremonies. At my mother’s wedding last year, my uncle was literally in the aisle snapping photos and taking video and he wasn’t the videographer.... it was so brutal. And then during the formal photo session after the ceremony, my photographer (I’m using the same photographer as my mother because I’ve known her for years) was trying to take photos and my family members were literally like “hey can you get out of the shot we’re trying to take a photo on my phone...” and I was like “OH HECK NO”! My family was definitely the main offenders. So I sent them all a message the other day saying “hey! For the ceremony, just so you know, it’s unplugged so no phones and cameras. Also, during formal portrait time, no photos on personal cameras and phones because I’m on a time schedule for the reception and I’m going to be ready to party so I want to get these photos done as quickly as possible so we can get to partying”. Sometimes, you have to be direct. Especially if you know your family. My photographer really really appreciated it.
I am SO glad you sent them a note! You definitely don't want them in the way of your photos for the wedding day. So smart!
At my friends wedding some guy had a fucking IPAD. Standing up taking a video the whole ceremony. They had a videographer wtf dude
A video on rehearsal dinners would be wonderful!!!!
@@JamieWolfer pros cons of different venues (home, restaurant, cater, DIY food?), etiquette?, how to steer extraneous speeches away from wedding day and towards rehearsal dinner.
Just even a step by step process and everything you need! I feel like that is the least covered topic in the wedding world! @@JamieWolfer
@@JamieWolfer How to do the actual rehearsal/runthrough of the ceremony when you're doing it at a restaurant and can't go to the venue
@@JamieWolfer I would love ideas for informal/smaller rehearsal dinners or "pre-wedding gatherings" for couples who don't actually need a rehearsal. We aren't even having our honor attendants stand up with us, wear matching clothes, hold bouquets, etc. We don't need to rehearse, but we'd love some ideas of how to get together beforehand with the VIPs (a gathering in place of the rehearsal dinner, but with no rehearsal and a more simple, laidback vibe).
Omg yes! I’m at this part in planning my wedding and am so confused!
This sounds good! (Also, who else is a single Pringle but watches Jamie’s videos? 🤣 I want her to be my wedding coordinator!! Lol!)
Thanks!! And Jamie is definitely amazing!
Not engaged but watch every video!!
I'm single and probably have five to seven years to get married and I don't miss a single video...
Same
Oh! I never thought of that with people having different photographers for the engagement shoot and the wedding day! But it makes so much sense to have the same person AND it is totally like a rehearsal period for you guys.
Gigi The Waitress 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
We decided to go with the photographer my fiance hire for the proposal because we really enjoyed working with him
My mum took our engagement pictures and they were lovely. But as I am uncomfortable about having my picture taken I did want an opportunity to „practice“ with my photographer. So i‘ve booked a mother / daughter photo shooting with the wedding photographer on the day of my make up trial :) that way I can give my mum a gift as a thank you (including a hair and make up appointment for mum), meet the photographer and see what the hair and makeup will look like in photos.
You are amazing! I was wondering if you could do a video on non-traditional activities for a reception. My fiancé and I don’t want to do the garter/bouquet toss and other traditional aspects of the ceremony but would like to have some planned moments/activities during the ceremony. Any ideas?
Ahhhh that is like the best suggestion because I am having the same issue! I can't find alternative options that aren't lame, like board games? Really? And I think the garter toss is so creepy!
Same here. We are not doing a bouquet toss or garter. Since we are having a lot of kids at the wedding, we were thinking of a teddy bear toss or like a pinata filled with candy but I would love other ideas!
I've seen the shoe game at a lot of weddings. That's often a hit. In lots of cultures, it's common for wedding guests to perform little songs, dances, or skits in honor of the couple!
We’re going to do a pub quiz with a wedding theme 😊
@@mirandapontarelli5485 What shoe game?
zero regrets about engagement photos. i didnt want to do them, but we learned alot about what would make our wedding day photos better
Video Idea: writing vows!
Hell yes. Not only do I always love when women help women in business, but I learned so much from this. Will be going to Cavin's channel now!
I get the whole don’t worry about getting your dress dirty, but I’m in the opinion of if I spent 5,000+ on a dress I’m not gonna want to go stomping through dirt or mud
Then don't spend 5k on a dress G, I'm rich but I'd never spend that on a dress lmfao
I wish we had thought more before booking engagement photos. We ended up getting engagement photos (being unhappy with many of them- bra sticking out of my dress, posting a photo where I was leaning back and somehow look heavily pregnant- I found out these photos had been posted when two family members messaged me freaking out and so upset for me). We booked our wedding photographer and were so happy to get another engagement session done with the photographer we booked for our wedding and she is wonderful.
So glad it worked out and you found someone amazing!
I understand the unplugged part and how important it is for the photographer. I followed that rule for my sister-in-law wedding. Took no pictures, no selfies. Until I got to see the wedding pictures and I'm nowhere in it. I do not have a single picture of me at the wedding. (And I was at the main table !...). Of COURSE I was not the main subject lol but hair, dress, boyfriend, pictures with the newly weds, I have absolutely nothing but memories, because they asked the photographer to take pics of the "real" family, and seeing as I'm not married yet to her brother, I guess I'm not real family for her since she asked to have only her brother on the pics and not me. Dancefloor, party, dinner, I have absolutely no pics and when I look back it's as if I wasnt even invited. So even if I have the memory in my mind, I honestly wish I had taken a few pics with my phone, because it makes me feel sad.
Maybe the best compromise would be for some parts to be unplugged and then allow a time to take pics on the phone !
Estelle Dupont i like the idea of the unplugged part for the ceremony only because of the ideas of the pictures being full of people looking at their phones. My bfs sister got married last August and she sent me the package that she got of photos and tbh it looks bad that everybody is on their phone. I didn’t really take any pictures with the bride and groom except for family photos. I can’t imagine what it must feel not being involved in at least one picture or be included like family. I was in the family picture and that’s the only picture I have with them so I’m glad for that. I believe that the completely unplugged wedding is a bit rude, at least just the ceremony but even when the photographer isn’t taking pictures you should’ve had the opportunity to have at least one
oh no that's awful! Unplugged weddings usually only refer to the ceremony, at least in my recommendation. It's the time when guest phones have the most impact and not in a good way. Thankfully guest phones are never really an issue outside of that time!
For my bf's brothers wedding, (it was a Hindu wedding and the ceremony and reception was diff days) I couldn't make it to the ceremony but I was there for the reception.. The only picture I have with his bro and sis in law is 1 official picture with me, my bf and his bro and bro's wife.. That's it and my bf is lucky enough to be in some family pictures but other than that he isn't in any of the others.. I wish I had taken some selfies with us.. The official pic didn't come out that good too 😕
Sometimes if you asked the photographer he/she may be kind enough to take your phone for a couple seconds to take some photos of you with the family, that’s what I had the photographer do for my bf’s older brothers wedding and have very professional & beautiful pictures with him and his family 💖
The "real" family statement make me cringe hard. If you're invited to my wedding, you're family, blood or not.
I think this is awesome advice. We found a photographer who includes the engagement photos on their package
I understand that the photographer wants to do the engagement session, but ours lives out of state and with their popularity they did not have any openings. So, we were forced to go elsewhere. Was such a bummer because I was so looking forward to meeting them prior to the wedding. It's not always just to the bride/groom who are trying to get a deal elsewhere or what have you, sometimes their schedules simply don't align and that's ok :)
Would you suggest a list for family photos, that way your wranglers can make sure the next group of people is ready? Or does that crimp your style as a photographer?
I always make a few suggestions for them to choose from and then ask for a list. That's the only part of the day I need a "shot list" for and it's so helpful!
Two things to add to a terrific video: the unplugged ceremony announcement goes on the e-mail too, and getting names and faces to your photographer helps so we can address more people by name.
Ok one more: If there first time your photographer sees your venue is the day of the wedding you've hired an amateur.
Jim's videos love the email announcement too.
I would say though that the venue part isn’t always the case. Especially as destination shooting is very popular, many photographers can’t see the venue until the morning of the wedding and scout then. They can definitely do an amazing job :)
@@cavinelizabeth Chances are though by the time you can get a destination job you'll have done enough of them that a walkthrough that morning is enough. I appreciate your taking the time to help Jamie with this; I've done enough to understand a little of how much I still have to learn!
Hello Jamie, your video is super helpful. My wedding will be in early June. I have been relying on your vedio for planning my wedding during the last six months. Could you do a similar video sharing what videographers want the new couples to know. Thanks a bunch!
My daughter and her fiancée got engaged in Edinburgh Scotland. He had arranged for a photographer to take pictures and they were amazing. We then hired our wedding photographer here in Dallas who then took new engagement photos that were amazing. She will be doing the Bridal portrait and the Wedding. All of the family pictures will be taken the day of the wedding right after the First Look is done in our church. The Bride and Groom will be the first ones to the reception site and will have a little alone time before presenting themselves to their guests and then they will get shots with friends and extended family. Cocktail hour will be short and the party can begin. It makes everyone much happier and no waiting around for the bridal party.
We have a different photographer for our wedding from our engagement shoot. We got engaged in Hawaii (we are from Australia) and did our engagement shot 3 days after our engagement whilst still overseas.
Love the concept and it’s completely understand it, but it doesn’t always work!
It totally can though! I have had some destination couples do their engagement session with me 2-3 days before the wedding once they were in town and it was incredible!
Yes, I thought of having a pre-trial run for engagement photos before this video. I think pictures are the most important thing about a wedding- it’s really the only memory you have. I am researching and looking at every photo. There are photographers i see that are not adventurous, take boring photos, and unflattering. I’m looking at everything. Why, because I was careless for my quince and it was the WORST photos. I’ll never have that day again and stuck with mediocre pictures for life. And yes!! I don’t care about my dress at all! I want pictures in the water(we are in Fl) planning to have my wedding on top of the water by a lighthouse.💕
Oh my! I just watched a Cavin Elizabeth video the other week 😍
And now she's here! 😍
hehe!!
I hired the same lady who did my stepdaughter's senior photos. I adored her. We talked so much that day. We talked a lot in between that day and the day I hired her. She was a super cool lady and I loved her work!!
This Book is what I have been DREAMING about and it EXISTS!!! LOVE JAMIE but so excited for Cavin!!!
Can you do a video about all the gifts the bride and groom are supposed to give? Wedding party gifts, hospitality bags for out of town relatives, etc.
What suggestions do you have for how to bond with a new photographer? My fiancé and I had engagement photos already from his mom's photographer friend. That session is how I learned that I wanted a different photographer for our wedding. I love the new photographer we chose! When we met with her I instantly felt comfortable and was able to tell her what I liked and fidnt like about my last experience. She offered another photo session as part of her package even though we had engagement photos... should we do them again? We dont have kids or pets so a family session is out. =/
Hey Jamie! I just found your channel and I've watched every video already lol. Your personality + your good ideas make your content pure gold. Thanks for all the awesome advice. I'm in the throws of wedding planning right now. I would LOVE if you did podcasts (or longer videos) on wedding topics. I could listen to you chat about weddings alllll day. I've found myself turning on your videos and just listening while I drive around town. Hope you consider it! :)
This is so good! At my brother's wedding, we didn't have a planner or coordinator, and the photographer was an amateur so the family photos did not turn out very great because the photographer totally had to put on so many hats in order to get all of the family members organized and be where they need to be for photos. (sorry for the run on sentence!) Great advice, I will definitely keep these tips in mind for the future.
I would LOVE it if you could do a video on a long distance wedding. My venue is 3 hours away from where I live and finding vendors is very stressful!
ours will be 6 hours away ! and so remote
I am planning my wedding from my hometown from 4 states away and it's soo hard.
Mine is five hours away
I’d love to know how this went! Specifically with vendors and guest list attendance... we have a FREE venue at a beautiful wine vineyard 6 hours away and I’m feeling like we won’t be able to have it there and have everyone :( currently looking at other venues because of this and man are they pricey. It’s been an incredible impact on even headcount and food...
I watched this a few days and I can’t stop thinking about it. I completely love your videos, Jamie, but I think some of the advice about following your photographer’s bidding is a little off. (I am also a wedding vendor.) I find that sometimes couples can be really uncomfortable with following these instructions. It’s not just about getting your attire a bit dirty, I’ve seen photographers ask their clients to walk through snake ridden tall grass. Or climb gates and fences or boulders, as you suggest. It sometimes ends badly and people get hurt! Especially if people are clumsy or accident prone! Now partly this is a case of picking your vendors carefully. But many times couples don’t feel like they can say no to instructions from the photographer, who often has an almost revered position on the day, whatever they say goes.
Had a photographer ask all these questions, built a relationship and she understood exactly what I wanted.... then quoted me base fee $4500 plus tax (Canadian so 13%) ... I'm sorry didn't know I was talking to a robber!!! Talked to another one, more hrs and only 2000. Why do vendors think they can rob people?
Our ceremony experience is different from our reception. One is very light, airy and beachy but the other is a 1940s USO theme. What things should I be looking for in a photographer's gallery? Thank you for another great video and introducing us to Cavin. I have enjoyed her channel.
This video couldn't have come at a better time! I'm in the process of finding the perfect photographer for my wedding. Could you make a video about dress shopping? Shopping for the dress is the part I'm least excited about.
But what if you didn’t like the work of the photographer for the engagement photos? Hence why you’re hiring a different photographer
Planning my wedding now and the way I see it with unplugged ceremony is why do I want to spend a good amount of money for professional photos to have other people taking their own pictures on an iPhone. I will 100% be doing an unplugged ceremony I want people to be in the moment.
You are helping me so much. I have been dreading planing especially finding a photographer. This has been so helpful
so thrilled it helped!!
So basically, spend more money and more money. Most of us cannot afford a professional photographer, an assistant, and a wedding planner. It's sad that so many in the wedding industry just keep pricing their services out of reach of normal people.
You always post the right video at the right time lol!
Okay but what if you are having a destination wedding and can’t afford to fly out the same photographer either way for the engagement or the ceremony?
Someone online had this idea we're definitely going to use where there's an announced photo OP during the ceremony (by both signs and the officiant.) That way, people have the photo itch scratched and the phones are still away for most of the ceremony.
This is soooo helpful! We're chatting with the person we're probably gonna have as a photographer next week and this is super going into that!
I want to say thank you to the photographer here for mentioning that some weddings are Groom and Groom or Bride and Bride. It may seem a small thing, but when you're watching a bunch of wedding videos and constantly hearing "Bride and Groom" (which, I get it, ok) it's so refreshing to occasionally have a reminder that people realize that weddings like yours ALSO exist.
Unplugged ceremony!!! 👏👏👏
Very informative, love this video. Can you please make a video for What Photographer can advice to wedding decorator/ planner for good lighting shots. Thanks....
LOVED this video! Photography has been the thing that I’ve stressed about the most and this was so helpful. I would love a video with some ideas for kid friendly activities at a Reception please!
So glad it was helpful!
"Getting some dirt on the skirt won't hurt." 😂
How to solve the problem of photographer when having a destination wedding?
Great idea with unplugged ceremony. I Should take notes, like the sunset photos in the vineyard. Need to do that. But timing wise I think it would be difficult.
i have 11 months to plans for my wedding and your videos are so so helpful! thank you Jamie!
I had to change photographers unfortunately due to finances however we were able to get my step sister who is thankfully just as good as a professional photographer but as sad as i am about the photographer i am excited to have personal photos done by a family Member
Same, we didn't bother with "engagement photos" and a friend of mine is doing the photographery.
Honestly I think your budget is way more important than anything else.
All I want for my wedding is to wake up debt free the next day
@@TheEmmaHouli That's great that you have your priorities so set!
We did have our engagement photos threw the first photographer and they turned out amazing so i would definitely send other people her way we just had to think of the budget
Wow, super helpful. Thanks
Omg that so so helpful!! Thanks for this video! My sis just got married and the photographer had the worst time cause my sis decided spontaneously that she wanted group shots and it was so hectic. Thanks to your videos I will already make so many less mistakes ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Oh gosh, yeah that is so hard to work with. You have to tell them yes even though it's going to be crazy lol!
Such great tips!! Thanks for sharing these!
so glad you loved it!
Great video! It was helpful to think of the big "picture" that you are making lasting memories, as much as celebrating the moment.
Her commitment to these Utah hats in these old videos 💀
Favorite part of my Wednesday mornings!
That's one of my biggest worries is people taking pictures and posting them on social media. We're hiring a photographer for that job not anyone else. (Its probably gonna be my petpeeve at my wedding lol)
Cavin is such a beautiful name ❤️
#1 I always look forward to your videos!
#2 my cuz just announced her wedding date and I sent her your TH-cam link
#3 this is for me, I decided to do the photoshoot with the wedding party before the ceremony and do the family during cocktail hour.
Do you find that to be easier on the photographer?
One last thing, taking random group shots during cocktail hour is better than doing group table shots?
Thanks
Such a useful video! Thank you!
Thanks for educating us! More guests please!
Hi ladies, I have a question.. I would LOVE to have a day of coordinator but I live in a small town, the nearest big city is Denver and it's over 4 hours away. We don't have coordinators and planners near my region, so how do I go about this?
I started watching her videos and felt like I was cheating on you, so this gives me permission to watch both of you.
Great video full of great information as always!! I’m hoping for another behind the scenes video soon!
Katie Wentworth thrilled you loved it!
Hi Jamie, is it weird to ask the photographer to change how they edit their photos? I noticed that a lot of photographers nowadays tend to have a very "warm", "yellow-ish" editing style (sorry I have no idea what it's called) and I'm not super into it. Their porfolios are on point beautiful but that's the only issue I have. I like the more colorful styles but the photographers I found who edits their pic the style I like don't have very good skill (or at least it's not how I like my pictures to be captured). So I'm just wondering if it's rude to ask photographers to change how they edit their photos
I have a lot of photographer friends and their editing style is their signature. Asking a photographer to change their editing is not respectful, you’ll need to search extra hard for a photographer that edits photos the way you like them.
@@vivianen5360 thank you for your reply! That's what I was thinking as well and I don't mean to be disrespectful to the photographers. Good to know so I won't do that haha
How do you figure out the best places to take family/wedding party pictures?
What would be your suggestion for a couple who is having a destination wedding?
I want to have a later in the evening...and possibly forgo having a formal sit down dinner with mostly finger foods? Thoughts?
Hi Jamie, Love from South Africa ! Your videos have helped me PLENTY through out my planning process, and still is! ... please can you do a vid on Rehearsal dinners and why it’s needed or why it’s not? Struggling to decide on whether we should do one or not. Have literally 1 brides maid and my lovely groom also only has 1. So why is it needed ?????? Ahhhhhh wedding planning stresss 😖🤪😁
What do you think about "family" reception table photos? Instead of after ceremony family photos?
*Does a video about photography.*
*Is out of focus.*
Super helpful! What do you guys know about george street photo? I'm a little nervous now because I haven't even met our photographer or videographer yet. We won't meet them until the day of the wedding.
Great tips to have, so informative! I'm just starting to look for photographers so this is perfectly timed and so helpful! Also, love your make-up here Jamie, especially your eyes :)
My fiancé and I have been engaged for four years and are tying the knot this October. We had engagement photos done a year into our engagement but the photographers shut their business down and our photos looked horrid. We didn’t do an engagement shoot with our wedding photographer mainly because we had already done them and because my fiancé and I are paying for this wedding completely on our own and are very limited with a budget. But now I’m worried the photographer doesn’t feel close to us or know us well enough and I’m starting to regret not doing one even though I know our budget wouldn’t allow it.
It'll be ok without doing one, but I would try to see if you could make it work or at least have a lunch or coffee date with them. That's always a great alternative if you can't budget for more photos :)
I'm Indian and I feel like we have many ceremonies and many relatives love to see their pictures and share it with other families that may live in other areas (india/london/ toronto etc) so for them, it's really important. I also think that having a compromise is really important, because yes I really want to have amazing pictures ... but I also know I would get in trouble with my family if they didn't get any pictures. I'm a single pringle atm but my idea is to announce no phones during actual ceremonies but to have simple photobooths set up where families can get pictures.
Just to paint a picture we have a ceremony where relatives sing songs and gather around you while they take turns applying this turmeric paste onto your skin to make it clear for the day of the wedding. I would leave it up to the professionals to capture this moment, but have a dedicated spot for cousins and relatives to take pictures with each other, and me after the ceremony.
I totally understand Jamie's and the photographer's perspective though because at most American style weddings you only have that one ceremony and reception to truly capture beautiful pictures.
Great point!👌
If you live in the States, it might be effective to hire a photographer that specializes in Indian weddings.
Or, if you live in India, I suppose that would be ALL photographers 😉
Someone that has worked non-W.A.S.P. weddings might be a good choice.
@@MrsAlexisAgnew2019, I actually live in Canada! So I'm sure I'll be able to find someone who specializes in Indian weddings.
I just want to find a photographer who specializes in interracial couples because our lighting problems can be tricky. Do I lose my nose with a flash or is he just eyes and teeth? How can we both look awesome?
Thank you ladies!!!!
Christine Marie 🥰
What's your advice for brides like myself with LOATHE having their pictures taken. I hate being in photos and then I act awkward. I did do facetime with my photographer prior to hiring him so I do feel comfortable. But if there was no photos of me I am not sure if I'd mind. But the fiance is wanting wedding photos.
Hi! I've been tuning into a lot of your videos and have picked up so much useful information, Thank for you that! As far as photographers go, I am having a destination wedding. What would you recommend for photos in that sense? I have my wedding planner on site in Hawaii but I don't live there myself. My finace's family does which is why we're getting married there but because of that we're considering not doing engagement photos at all.
Woooo!!! Photography! 🙌🏻
:-)
Lol I was editing while I listened to this and I heard "Don't you wander over to the bar, Jen" and of course felt called out! Haha
Any tips for if the groom hates getting his picture taken?
The dirt on the skirt 😂😂😂😂
Love this duo 😍😍😍
:)
LOVE IT! SUPER IMPORTANT INFO :)
Do you prefer taking more photos pre-ceremony or post-ceremony?
Sarah Unan I prefer them before and my brides do too. They say it’s more relaxing knowing everything is done and they can just go enjoy cocktail hour.
I didn’t even know engagement photos were a thing.
My photographer who did our engagement shoot wont be able to come to our wedding because she's due a couple of weeks before hand. We've hired a new one, met with her, like her, but we have don't really know if we should do a second engagement shoot with the new girl. It seems excessive to have that many photos, but I also want to get to know her better. Thoughts?
We had two engagement photo shoots done, for different reasons, but absolutely no regrets!
Yes do it!! I always say the session isn't about the photos but rather the experience!
Some of us have budgets!!!
What about divorced parents? That creates extra groupings.
Any Dallas Texas photographers anyone could recommend?
recebaby88 Savannah Peterson photography :) she’s mine and she’s amazing!
The background is in focus, the taling heats aren’t. Inspireren confidentieel in theorie photography.
Ladies I need HELP,
I hired a wedding coordinator and designer. She made our wedding invitations, not of us noticed it until I've sent most of them out but instead of Jason (he's the groom) it says Jacob.
I basically texted the wedding planner saying hey I'm getting new invitations I changed the RSVP date to make the time, this is why. She then argued with me about how it's my fault I didn't catch it. I agree, I should have. But, I really don't think it should have been an argument. Only after did she apologize when I had to design new invitations, get them reprinted, pay to get them reprinted, remail them, and do damage control for all the pissed of family members.
Keep the current wedding coordinator or find a new one?
My main gripe is how she handled this conversation, I don't feel it was professional or understanding
Sadie Ann Find a new one! If she gets like that over something like that which is clearly her fault then it could be baddd on the day with others and people managing
I started looking and there's still some available. I can deal with the stress of micromanaging the wedding planner
Get a timeline from your photographer and videographer
Hi there, what if the photographer you wanted to use and did your engagement shoot with, has decided to stop shooting weddings?
I would do another session with your wedding photographer! It's totally worth it!
Should the coordinator be responsible for the family photos?
I completely understand why it’s better to have engagement pictures with the wedding photographer, but I really want to have engagement pictures in another state than where the photographer is located. Any suggestions?!
I'm in the same boat! I'm going to meet my photographer on my wedding day.
Have them fly out if feasible. If they're not too far, they might even be able to fly in and out same day to avoid hotel costs. Or do an engagement again with them a few days before the wedding when you're in the same state. I've done that before and it's so helpful. There are always ways to make it work and I fully suggest doing so :)
so helpful!
Jamie! You're hair in thsi vid is soooo beautiful! 😍😍😍
I LOOOOOOOVE IT! 😊😊😊
Just ordered the book! Really excited to read
yay I hope you love it!