wedding journal
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The coziest little spot on the Internet for inspiration, advice, and ideas for weddings in Boston and across New England.
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Arianne & George’s Waverly Oaks Wedding
Arianne and George had the most beautiful day at Waverly Oaks. With the perfect mix of gorgeous fall weather, a stunning location, and the love of their closest friends and family, everything came together effortlessly. Waverly Oaks Golf Club provided the ideal backdrop for a celebration that felt relaxed, joyful, and full of heart.
Engagement Photos
I first met Arianne and George the winter before their wedding for their engagement session. They chose a new location for me in Boston, one that was extra special because it’s where they got engaged. From the moment I met them, it was clear how much love and respect they have for each other. It all felt so natural and effortless. I remember one moment in particular: I asked them to pretend I wasn’t there and just enjoy being together. Without hesitation, George started twirling Arianne and dancing with her, something they love to do at home. It was pure joy and so authentically them.
Getting Ready
Fast forward to their wedding day in October. We started the morning at a nearby hotel for getting ready photos. Everything was so smooth and organized, thanks in large part to Arianne, who is incredibly on top of things, and her amazing bridal party and mom, who were beyond helpful. They had everything laid out and even reserved a separate room free of hair and makeup products so we had a clean, clutter-free space for photos.
I can’t stress this enough. Assigning tasks to your bridal party really makes the day easier. Because they were so prepared, I was able to start with flat-lay photos in that clean space. Not only did they have gorgeous details ready for me to photograph, but their florist (thank you @texturefloraldesign) also provided the most stunning floral accents. It made such a difference and truly elevated the entire gallery.
Some of the beautiful details
First Look, Private Vows & Portraits
Arianne and George chose to do a first look and share private vows before their ceremony, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite parts of the day. Even with two photographers and two videographers present, it still felt incredibly intimate. They were completely focused on each other and those quiet, emotional moments before becoming husband and wife.
After their first look, we moved right into portraits. While we did more photos later in the day, this gave us a beautiful variety and helped the timeline stay relaxed. We also took advantage of this time to do wedding party and family photos. One of the best parts of doing a first look is that you get to spend more time with your soon-to-be spouse, shake off some of those pre-ceremony nerves, and get all the formal photos done early. That way, after the ceremony, your wedding party and family can head straight to cocktail hour, and you can take a few more photos and get a minute to breathe!
Ceremony
The ceremony was held outside at Waverly Oaks, just as the sun began to set, and the lighting was absolutely beautiful. There was a soft golden glow over everything, creating the most romantic atmosphere. Arianne looked radiant as she walked down the aisle, and even though she and George had already seen each other during their first look, the emotion on their faces made it feel like they were seeing each other for the first time all over again.
Their ceremony was filled with so much love and joy, and they ended it with the best dip kiss I’ve ever seen. It was such a fun, cinematic moment that perfectly captured their energy as a couple. Everyone was cheering, and you could just feel how happy and present they were in that moment.
Sunset Photos
After the ceremony, we took full advantage of the setting sun to capture those dreamy golden hour portraits. We hopped on a golf cart and explored a few beautiful spots around the property before heading back up to the venue to finish the rest. The sunset did not disappoint, it gave us the softest, most magical light, and Arianne and George looked absolutely stunning. It was such a peaceful, fun moment for them to soak everything in before heading into the excitement of the reception.
Reception
By the time the reception began, everyone was ready to celebrate. The evening kicked off with a beautiful first dance, followed by two sweet dances with their moms that had everyone smiling. One of the most touching moments was a surprise anniversary dance dedicated to Arianne’s aunt and uncle—who now share a wedding anniversary with them. It was such a thoughtful gesture and had the whole room cheering.
From there, the dance floor stayed full all night. The kids especially brought the energy, showing off their best moves and keeping the party going strong. It was the perfect end to a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Arianne and George’s wedding at Waverly Oaks was such a beautiful reminder of why I love what I do. From emotional vows and golden hour portraits to thoughtful details and nonstop dancing, their day was filled with so much joy and intention. It was truly an honor to be a part of it.
Vendor Team:
Photographer – @daniellelittlesphoto
Venue – @waverlyoaksgc
Dress – @chryssiesbridal
Suits – @menswarehouse
DJ – @benwayentertainment
Florist – @texturefloraldesign
Make-up & hair – @dropdeadgorgeousri
Videographer – @ez.videoproductions
Desserts – @montiliosweddings
Invitations – @minted
2nd shooter – @photosbyarlinda
If you’re planning your own wedding and are looking for someone to document it with care, attention to detail, and a personal connection, I’d love to chat. You can get in touch through my contact page or send me a message on Instagram @daniellelittlesphoto. Let’s create something beautiful together.
Keywords: MA weddings, wedding photographer, MA wedding photographer, NH weddings, Waverly Oaks Wedding, wedding portraits, Waverly oaks golf club
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When it comes to choosing the perfect summer wedding location, coastal venues are hard to beat. That’s exactly why Mikayla and Mike went with a Beauport Gloucester wedding for their big day. With killer ocean views, a salty sea breeze, and that perfect mix of elegance and coastal charm, Beauport is hands down one of the best spots to tie the knot.
Getting Ready
One of the best parts of the day? They both got ready at the Beauport Hotel, major win. The rooms are gorgeous, the vibe was relaxed, and it made everything so much easier.
The guys kicked things off with “game day photos,” fully leaning into the hype. Seriously, they had a blast, and it set the tone for the whole day. Meanwhile, the girls were in full wedding morning mode, music on, champagne popping, just soaking in all the excitement.
No First Look, No Problem
Mikayla and Mike skipped the first look, which meant getting creative with wedding party photos before the ceremony. We did separate shots for each side, making sure they didn’t cross paths, a little chaotic, but totally worth it. And let’s be real, the moment they finally saw each other at the altar made it all worth it.
The Ceremony – A First Look Worth Waiting For
Mike’s reaction when he saw Mikayla? She took his breath away. These two have been together since high school, so this moment was years in the making, and you could feel the love from everyone there. Add in that insane ocean backdrop, and yeah, it was something special.
Portraits & Classic Beauport Wedding Moments
After the ceremony, we knocked out family photos, wedding party pics, and then headed to the beach for some just-married portraits. Golden hour, ocean breeze, two people crazy in love, it doesn’t get better than that.
And, of course, we had to do the classic Beauport wedding photos in front of the Beauport bus and sign, if you know, you know.
The Reception – Absolute Chaos (In the Best Way)
By the time the reception started, it was ON. The dance floor was packed from the jump, shoes were off, drinks were spilling, and nobody was holding back. Just pure, unfiltered celebration. This crew knew how to party, and they went all in from start to finish.
The Details
Last but not least the details. Mikayla’s carefully styled flat lays (rings, invites, all the pretty things), the gorgeous reception setup, the candlelit tables, and just an overall dreamy, romantic vibe. Every little piece came together perfectly, and it was awesome to see their vision come to life.
Mikayla and Mike’s Beauport Gloucester wedding was everything a summer wedding should be, emotional, wild, and full of love.
Planning your own wedding? If you’re getting married at Beauport (or anywhere along the coast), I’d love to capture your day. Contact me and let’s make some magic!
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Looking for an 8 hour wedding photography timeline with no first look? I’ve got you covered! Planning your wedding day can feel overwhelming, but having a structured timeline can make everything flow smoothly. If you prefer to wait until the ceremony to see your partner, this timeline ensures all the key moments are beautifully documented while keeping your day stress-free. I’ve used this template year after year to help my couples enjoy a seamless and memorable wedding day.
8-Hour Wedding Timeline with no first look
1:00 PM – Coverage Begins & Detail Shots
Your photographer will start by capturing all the gorgeous details—your dress, rings, invitations, shoes, and any sentimental items. Candid moments of you and your wedding party getting ready will also be documented.
1:30 PM – Hair & Makeup Need to Be Done
Hair and makeup should be fully completed by this time so everyone is ready for portraits.
2:00 PM – Bride + Bridesmaid Getting Ready
Bridesmaids in their dresses, final makeup touch-ups, and those beautiful pre-ceremony moments happen now.
2:30 PM – Bride + Bridesmaid Portraits
The bride and her bridesmaids take portraits together while everyone is fresh and ready.
3:00 PM – Groom + Groomsmen Getting Ready & Portraits
The groom and groomsmen prepare for the big day, with candid and posed portraits captured.
4:00 PM – Photograph Ceremony & Reception Space
The photographer captures the beautifully set ceremony and reception space before guests arrive.
4:30 PM – Ceremony Begins
Time to say “I do!” Your photographer will capture the processional, vows, ring exchange, first kiss, and all the little moments in between.
5:00 PM – Cocktail Hour & Portraits
While guests enjoy cocktails and appetizers, the bride and groom take newlywed portraits, along with wedding party and family photos.
6:00 PM – Reception Begins
Your reception officially kicks off!
6:05 PM – Entrance, First Dance & Toasts
Your grand entrance, followed by your first dance and heartfelt toasts.
6:30 PM – Dinner
Time to enjoy a meal with your loved ones.
7:15 PM – Dinner is Served
Guests begin eating while the couple relaxes and enjoys the moment.
7:10 PM – Special Dances, Cake Cutting & Dancing
Parent dances, cake cutting, and the dance floor opening up for celebration!
7:30 PM – Sunset Photos
A golden hour session to capture dreamy, romantic portraits.
8:00 PM – Toasts, Special Dances & More Dancing
A few final toasts, parent dances, and the party officially kicks off!
9:00 PM – Coverage Ends
Final moments captured before wrapping up your photography coverage.
Why This Timeline Works
This 8 hour timeline with no first look ensures that every special moment is documented while keeping a natural flow to your day. By waiting until the ceremony to see each other, the excitement builds for that unforgettable first moment down the aisle.
Need a customized timeline? I’m here to help! Let’s craft the perfect schedule for your special day.
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Looking for an 8 hour wedding photography timeline that keeps your day stress-free? I’ve got you covered! Planning your wedding day can feel overwhelming, but having a structured timeline can make everything flow smoothly. If you’re looking for a simple yet effective 8-hour wedding photography timeline that includes a first look, I’ve got you covered! I’ve used this template year after year to help my couples have a stress-free and beautifully documented day.
8-Hour Wedding Photography Timeline
12:30 PM – Coverage Begins & Detail Shots
Your photographer will start by capturing all the gorgeous details—your dress, rings, invitations, shoes, and any sentimental items. Candid moments of you and your wedding party getting ready will also be documented.
1:00 PM – Hair & Makeup Final Touches + Getting Dressed
Hair and makeup should be completed at this time, and the bride and bridal party start getting dressed.
1:30 PM – Bride + Bridesmaid Getting Ready Photos
PJ photo, final makeup touch-ups, and those beautiful pre-ceremony moments happen now.
1:45 PM – Bridesmaids to start getting dressed
Bridal party starts to get dressed
2:00 PM – Bride Gets Dressed & Groom + Groomsmen Getting Ready Photos
Bride gets dressed, final getting ready moments for both the bride and groom, capturing those emotional and candid interactions.
2:30 PM – First Look & Portraits
One of the most emotional and intimate moments of the day! The first look allows you to share a quiet, special moment together before the hustle and bustle begins. This is also a great time to take couple portraits while hair and makeup are fresh.
3:15 PM – Bridal Party & Family Photos
With the first look done, we’ll capture fun and formal shots with your wedding party and immediate family.
4:00 PM – Hide Couple Away Before Ceremony & Photograph Ceremony + Reception Space
The bride takes a moment to freshen up while the photographer captures the beautifully set ceremony and reception space before guests arrive.
4:30 PM – Ceremony Begins
Time to say “I do!” Your photographer will capture the processional, vows, ring exchange, first kiss, and all the little moments in between.
5:00 PM – Cocktail Hour
Guests enjoy drinks and appetizers while you relax or take additional portraits.
6:00 PM – Reception Begins
Your reception officially kicks off!
6:05 PM – Entrance, First Dance & Toasts
Your grand entrance, followed by your first dance and heartfelt toasts.
6:30 PM – Dinner
Time to enjoy a meal with your loved ones.
7:10 PM – Special Dances, Cake Cutting & Dancing
Parent dances, cake cutting, and the dance floor opening up for celebration!
7:30 PM – Evening/Sunset Photos
A golden hour session to capture dreamy, romantic portraits.
8:30 PM – Coverage Ends
Final moments captured before wrapping up your photography coverage.
Why This Timeline Works
This 8-hour timeline ensures that all the key moments of your wedding day are beautifully documented while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable. With a first look included, you get extra time for portraits and can fully enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests.
Need a customized timeline? I’m here to help! Let’s craft the perfect schedule for your special day.
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A perfect summer wedding at Grand View in Mendon MA was exactly what Simone and Joe got. The weather was unreal, the venue was gorgeous, and they were surrounded by the best people. These two have been together since high school, so this next chapter is extra exciting for them!
Getting Ready
The day started at a local hotel, where they got ready with their wedding party. The girls hung out, got their hair and makeup done, and I snapped some flat lays of all the little details. Meanwhile, the guys got ready in one of the suites, keeping things chill. Joe loves Sprite, so naturally, he and his groomsmen took a shot…of Sprite, of course, to kick off the day.
Once they got to Grand View, the girls finished getting ready in the beautiful bridal suite. None of the bridesmaids (except the Maid of Honor) had seen Simone’s dress, so we set up two reveals, one with her bridesmaids and another with the moms. Both were such sweet, emotional moments!
First look
Simone and Joe decided to do a first look because they wanted to spend as much time together as possible on their wedding day. It was such an emotional moment. Joe’s reaction said it all. Right after, they shared private vows, which I think is just so special. It gave them a quiet, intimate moment before the whirlwind of the day really kicked in.
Portraits, Wedding Party & Family Photos
The bonus of doing a first look? We were able to get all their portraits, wedding party, and family photos done before the ceremony! That meant they could head straight to cocktail hour and actually enjoy it with their guests.
Beautiful Ceremony
The ceremony site at Grand View is one of the most beautiful spaces I’ve seen, and I totally get why they picked this venue. Not only is there a grand staircase, but the lake backdrop is absolutely stunning. And like I said, the weather was perfect, just look at that sky!! Simone made the most gorgeous entrance, walking down the staircase with her brother before her dad met her halfway to walk her the rest of the way. Their close friend Erin officiated, making the ceremony even more personal. Even though Simone and Joe had already seen each other during their first look, there’s something different about that moment at the ceremony, it just hits differently.
Reception…party time!
Simone & Joe were definitely ready to celebrate with their family and friends. The reception was an absolute blast! The bridesmaids kicked things off by holding up giant letters spelling out the couple’s last name, and from there, the energy never died down. They even cut their cake with a sword, which was just as epic as it sounds! From nonstop dancing to so many fun, unforgettable moments, they truly had the best night.
Details
And we can’t forget about the details! So much time and effort goes into picking out everything, the invitations, flowers, cake, and colors, and it all came together beautifully. Every piece of their wedding reflected them perfectly, from the carefully chosen décor to the little personal touches scattered throughout the day.
Simone and Joe truly had a perfect summer wedding at Grand View.
Are you having a wedding at Grand View? Let’s chat! I’d love to hear all about your vision and capture every special moment of your day. Reach out, and let’s make it happen!
And Grand View is one of my top wedding venues in MA! Read more about it here.
The Vendors:
Photographer: @daniellelittlesphoto
Venue: @grandviewmendon
Videographer: @redrosevisuals
Dress: @kleinfeldbridal & @randyfenolibride
Hair: @niki.snips
Make-up: @beautybyelysep
Suits: @menswearhouse
Invitations: @zazzle
DJ/Band: @djelsid
Florist: @77blossomshop
Dessert: @gerardositalianbakery
2nd photographer: @elizabethstrokaphotography
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You’re engaged…woohoo! Now comes the fun (and sometimes overwhelming) part, researching and booking vendors. When it comes to photography, you might be wondering: what questions to ask a wedding photographer? Having been on both sides, planning my own wedding and now working as a wedding photographer, I’ve learned there are things I wish I had asked and things I want my potential clients to know. So, let’s dive into the must-ask questions to help you find the perfect photographer for your big day!
1. What is your style, and how do you approach a wedding day?
This is such an important question because every photographer has a unique style and approach! Some focus on a documentary, candid style, while others lean towards a more posed, editorial look. Their approach to a wedding day can also vary, do they take charge and direct moments, or do they blend into the background and capture things as they naturally unfold?
It’s essential to find a photographer whose style matches your vision and whose personality makes you feel comfortable. Ask to see full wedding galleries, not just highlight reels, to get a true sense of how they capture an entire day.
2. What is your backup plan? If you aren’t able to be there on my wedding day due to an emergency, what happens?
Life is unpredictable, and while no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, it’s important to know your photographer has a solid backup plan in place. Ask if they have a trusted network of photographers who can step in if needed. Do they have second shooters or assistants who could take over?
3. What happens to my photos after the wedding? Do they get deleted once delivered, or do you keep them?
This is so important, I can’t stress it enough! After your wedding, your photos (and video, if chosen) are the one thing you have left from the day. You want to make sure your photographer has processes in place to keep your images safe.
Ask about their backup system, do they use dual memory cards while shooting? How and where are the photos stored after the wedding? How long do they keep them? Also, find out how long your online gallery will be active and whether there’s a fee to have it re-uploaded if needed.
For me, both of my cameras have dual memory cards, and as soon as I get home, I upload everything to my computer, two hard drives, and the cloud. And they never get deleted. Like, never. I keep online galleries active for a year, but since I always have backups, I can easily re-upload them, for free.
Quick story: A bride from 2021 reached out to me today because her wedding photos were on an old device, and she forgot to move them over. She thought she’d ask if I still had them but understood that I probably didn’t… but I did! I was able to re-upload her photos, and she was beyond grateful.
Not all photographers keep images forever, and some charge to re-upload galleries, so it’s crucial to ask before booking. That way, you know what to expect and can take any necessary steps to back up your photos yourself!
4. What does communication look like when working with you?
Planning a wedding involves a lot of moving parts, so knowing how and when you can communicate with your photographer is key. Ask what their preferred method of communication is, can you text them, or is it strictly email? How many meetings are included in your package? What’s their typical response time?
For me, I want my couples to feel like they can reach out anytime! I’m available via email and text, and I include however many meetings needed in my collections to go over details, timelines, and any questions you have. I also aim to respond within 24 hours/days because I know how important quick communication is when planning a wedding.
Every photographer has a different approach, so it’s important to find someone whose communication style aligns with your needs and expectations. The last thing you want is to feel like you’re left in the dark leading up to your big day!
5. Do you have insurance?
This one is pretty simple, all professional photographers should have insurance, especially when working at venues (and most venues require it!). Liability insurance protects both you and the photographer in case of accidents, and equipment insurance ensures that if anything happens to their gear, your wedding day coverage isn’t at risk.
6. How long until I get my final gallery?
Turnaround time is an important detail to discuss and should be clearly stated in your contract. Some photographers take several months, while others have a quicker turnaround depending on their workload.
For me, I take on a limited number of weddings each year so that no one has to wait months and months for their photos. I believe in delivering galleries in a timely manner while maintaining the highest quality.
Make sure to ask about sneak peeks as well, some photographers provide a small selection of edited images within a few days so you have something to share while you wait for the full gallery!
7. What do you love about weddings?
Ask this!! The person you choose should truly love photographing weddings. You want someone who is passionate, excited, and genuinely cares about capturing your day, not just someone who sees it as another job.
When your photographer is just as excited about your wedding as you are, it makes the experience that much better!
8. What is your booking process?
Understanding the booking process upfront ensures there are no surprises. Ask what’s required to officially secure your date, do they require a retainer fee? When is the final payment due? What does the contract include?
For me, I make the process as simple and clear as possible. A signed contract and retainer fee are required to lock in your date, and I provide a payment schedule so you always know what to expect. Everything should be discussed in advance, so you’re never left wondering about the next step!
9. Can I see full wedding galleries?
You should always be able to view a couple of full galleries from real weddings! While Instagram and website portfolios showcase the best highlights, they don’t show how a photographer captures an entire wedding day, from getting ready to the ceremony, reception, and all the in-between moments.
Seeing full galleries will give you a better idea of their consistency, editing style, and how they handle different lighting situations. It’s one of the best ways to make sure their work aligns with your vision for your own wedding photos!
Choosing the right wedding photographer is about more than just loving their photos—it’s about trusting them to capture one of the most important days of your life. By asking what questions to ask a wedding photographer, you’ll gain a better understanding of their style, process, and professionalism, ensuring they’re the perfect fit for you.
If you’re looking for a photographer who truly cares about your experience, values communication, and will preserve your memories with passion, I’d love to chat! Reach out here to inquire about your date, ask any additional questions, or just say hello! And be sure to check out my Pinterest to get wedding inspo!
