wedding journal

As a wedding photographer, it is crucial to be prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise on the big day. Over the years, I have learned the importance of having an emergency kit on hand, as there have been numerous instances where someone needed something urgently, and no one else had it. Read below to check out what I have in my emergency kit and what I’d recommend.

1. Shoe Horn:

A shoe horn might seem like an odd item to include in an emergency kit, but it can be a lifesaver for both the bride and groom. Oftentimes, wedding shoes can be tight and uncomfortable, which can cause unnecessary stress. A shoe horn helps ease the process of putting on and taking off shoes without damaging them or hurting the feet. Here is the link to the shoe horn I keep on me.

2. Tide Pen and Shout:

Having a tide pen and shout stain remover in your emergency kit can be a quick solution to tackle unexpected stains on wedding attire. These handy stain removers can save the day by ensuring that the couple looks their best throughout the entire event. I’ve seen them work magic on wedding dresses!

3. Hair Accessories:

Hair emergencies can be a nightmare, especially for brides. Having a collection of hair accessories in your emergency kit can help you assist the bride or bridesmaids in fixing any hair mishaps that may occur. I keep bobby pins, comb, hair spray and hair ties in my kit.

4. Sewing Kit:

A sewing kit is an essential component of any wedding day emergency kit. I’ve had to sew on bottoms on suit jacket multiple times for the groom and groomsmen. This is a must for your kit.

5. Deodorant:

Including a travel-sized deodorant in your emergency kit can help the couple, and even yourself, feel fresh and confident throughout the long day of capturing precious moments.

6. Sanitary Products:

It’s essential to be considerate of the needs of the bride and her bridal party. Including sanitary products such as tampons or pads in your emergency kit can provide comfort and relief during unexpected situations.

7. Tums:

Wedding day jitters can sometimes lead to an upset stomach. Having Tums or other antacid tablets in your kit can help alleviate any discomfort the couple may experience, ensuring they can enjoy their special day to the fullest. I’ve been to a few weddings where no one has had tums so adding these to my kit was a must.

9. Safety Pins:

Safety pins are versatile tools that can fix a wide range of issues. From securing loose hems to temporarily fixing broken accessories, safety pins are a handy item to have in your emergency kit.

10. Scissors:

A small pair of scissors can come in handy for various purposes. Whether it’s cutting loose threads, opening packages, or assisting with minor wardrobe adjustments, having scissors readily available is essential. I keep two on me because someone always needs scissors!

11. Advil:

Wedding days can be long and tiring, both physically and mentally. Including a few packets of Advil or other pain relievers in your emergency kit can provide quick relief for headaches or any other minor aches and pains.

12. Cliff Bar:

Lastly, it’s important to have a quick source of energy on hand. Including a nutritious snack like a Cliff Bar or any other energy bar can help keep you fueled throughout the day, ensuring you have the stamina to capture all the magical moments. These are my favorite and I always have a few on me during weddings.

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What do you carry in your emergency kit?

Over the years first looks have become very popular but why?

So what is a first look?

The first look is when the soon-to-be married couple see each other for the first time on their wedding day before the ceremony.

When I got married 5 years ago, I wish I had known more about the first look. We weren’t able to capture all of the photos we wanted and 5 years later, I am still bummed out. I believe if we had done a first look, we would have been able to get all of our must-have photos!

Ok, so you know what the first look is. Let’s talk about why you should do it!

1. Private moment with your significant other.

You’ll realize at the end of your wedding day, that you’ve barely had any time with your spouse. Yes, you’ll be with them during the ceremony, photos and reception but there is so much going on during that time that you won’t have had a moment to yourselves. The first look creates that moment.

2. You can get the majority of your photos taken before the ceremony.

I believe that this is one of the biggest perks to having the first look. As I mentioned before, I believe if my husband and I had done a first look for our wedding, we would have all the images we wanted.

Cocktail hours usually aren’t long enough for family, wedding party and the new married couple to all have the photos done. You may not be able to mingle with your guests during cocktail hour.

Ask any photographer, we hate to feel like we don’t have enough time for your must-have photos!

3. Calms the nerves.

I don’t think it matters who, you’re going to have some nerves on your wedding day, I know I did! Seeing your soon-to-be husband or wife beforehand can make the nerves disappear. All of my couples have felt less nervous after!

Sounds great, right?!

You’re probably wondering what the downside to the first look is, and although there are things to consider, I still think the first look is a must! But let’s talk a little about what to consider.

1. You’ll need to get ready earlier.

Ideally, you’ll want the first look to take place 1.5-2 hours before the ceremony. This means you’ll need to get ready earlier. Depending on your ceremony start time, this tricky.

During your wedding consultation, let’s chat about this to see how we can fit the first look in your timeline (if that’s what you want!)

2. Possible challenges with lighting.

The best time for lighting is about an hour after sunrise and before sunset. Most people aren’t getting married at 7/8PM at night so most first looks are happening around 1/2PM. The lighting isn’t the best, but that shouldn’t stop you!