Erin Gets Married! What Being the Bride Taught a Nashville Wedding Photographer (Part 2)
Friday, October 17, 2014
You think you know all about weddings until you get engaged and its your money, your emotions, your family! It really doesn't matter how many weddings you have helped plan, attended or even worked. Things change when you are the bride, starting with your perspective. Erin of The Collection found that out very fast.
If you missed part 1 of Being the Bride, start by clicking this link. Otherwise, keep reading more insight from Erin Gets Married...
Let the Pros Be Pros
I asked if she traveled with her cake. She said yes! And she said it was delicious and arrived without any harm. But, she was prepared just in case there were issues. What I love most about her cake story is that Juanita, of Dulce Desserts, recommended a "messy buttercream, 2-tier cake" that would travel well. It would be ok if it got bumped. Gotta love Nashville wedding pros! They are so talented, knowledgeable and always willing to help make weddings wonderful.
Receiving great advice is one thing, but as a wedding pro herself, she accepted advice from not just Juanita but her arsenal of wedding pro friends.
Photos Last a Lifetime!
When It came to photographer, let's be honest, she had her choice selection, which is a luxury generally afforded to celebrities. The dynamic team that is Dove Photography aka Peter and Whitney (for whom Erin has worked for seven years) could not let Erin down.
But even with the best photographers, Erin knew that certain things were still on her. Hair and makeup! That was a splurge item. As a photographer she knew the importance and hired a local pro to ensure she was camera ready. Unfortunately, she did not do a trial run but it all worked out. In hindsight, she would have made sure she had a trial run.
She also planned her wedding weekend so that she would have plenty of time for photos. The more time they have, they more wonderful shots photographers can get. If you only give them a small window, they can only do so much. Erin allowed for 90 minutes for portraits and their first-look and couple photos all around Savannah. Then she and Taylor took photos with every family and guest (totally 45 people) and allowed ample time. She made a list so no one was forgotten. This eliminated all of the one-off pics that guests would normally request that pull you away from the moment.
Shop Around
Erin was most surprised by her wedding dress because it was something she never would have picked - strapless. She planned to find a dress online and keep it simple. One day, she found herself trying on dresses and none looked good. A sales person suggested a strapless gown. She gave it a try and it was the one! She ended up adding straps, something she also had never considered as an option. She found the style, added the straps and the dress was perfect.
She recommends trying on a broader range of dresses, even the ones you are sure you won't like. You might just be surprised. (Other brides I know would agree!)
Be Yourself
Erin isn't big on flowers, pomp and circumstance. She decided to keep the decor simple and within reach. She purchased flowers placed them in pots and the table decor doubled as favors.
Keep It Simple
Erin said she didnt want the stress of certain things. Instead of a formal rehearsal dinner, she and Taylor had pizza with everyone on the same deck we had the wedding on the next night. I wanted to enjoy the deck since we thought it could be downpouring the next day. They kept it easy and just ate on the rooftop.
As a photographer and now bride, Erin wants you to know that something always goes wrong. Be ready. Professionals can help you deal with it, rearrange things and give you more quality time to enjoy your family, big day and your significant other!
Being a wedding photographer helped her reduce anxiety because at every wedding, something has gone wrong but every couple has left married. It always works out.
All incredible photos courtesy of Dove Wedding Photography
About the Author:
Ashley King
Hey - I'm Ashley! I started AshleysBrideGuide.com to give Nashville brides, or folks planning a Nashville wedding, a local resource for inspiration and resources. Hope to see you at a bridal show soon! Until then, Find me on Google+.
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Posted on October 17, 2014 |
Filed under: Destination Weds & Honeymoon , Florals, Details & Design , DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Photography, Real Nashville Brides, Real Nashville Weddings,
