Family + Bridal Party Expectations
It’s smart to notify your VIP’s about what to expect over the course of the day. Feel free to copy and paste the following or download and attach the file below in a group email to them, so they are familiar with how the day will go and what’s expected of them. This is good to do about a month or two prior to the wedding day, and then a reminder about a week beforehand, so it’s fresh in their minds. Be sure to also include a copy of the timeline we’ve curated together as well, so they know where to be and when.
A note from the Photographer to the Family Members and Bridal Party:
I’m excited to meet each of you and spend the day celebrating this special couple together! Please take note of the following so you have a clear idea of what to expect on the wedding day.
GETTING READY - this portion of the day is photographed candidly, so just be yourselves and have fun. Make sure you eat and stay hydrated too!
Bridesmaids + Mothers - upon arrival, please have your dresses hanging, pressed/steamed, and ready to go so that you’re prepared to step into your dresses about 15-20 minutes prior to the Bride getting dressed.
Groomsmen + Fathers - it won’t take you guys long to get dressed. Save your jackets and ties for when the photographer arrives to your room, so photos can be taken casually as you finalize your looks with these finishing touches.
BRIDAL PARTY PORTRAITS - I want you all to have fun and enjoy this portion of the day, but please take this time to focus and listen to direction from us as we photograph each of you individually with the Bride and Groom, as well as together in a group. The better you all cooperate with us, the smoother it will go, and the sooner you can get back to your cocktails and celebration!
GROUP FAMILY PORTRAITS - Please ensure that everyone is dressed and ready by the time we’re scheduled for portraits together. Notify extended family members and grandparents with appropriate advanced notice on where to be and when, if they are to be included in the group photos. On the Wedding Day, I will have a list from the Bride and Groom of each person/group photo requested, so as long as everyone is present and accounted for in time, we’ll be smooth sailing.
Note: If for some reason we are missing a VIP during group photos, we can re-take a shot or two during the Reception when everyone is together.
SPECIAL PHOTO REQUESTS - Due to the nature of the very specific time-sensitive schedule of a Wedding Day, I’ll be photographing portraits and group shots based on the Bride and Groom’s requests only. Should anyone wish for additional shots taken, we will be sure to photograph these during the Reception time.
Thank you all in advance!
Cheers!
Kirsten Smith
@kirstensmithphotography