Andrea’s Insider Wedding Day Tips


Little things that make a big difference—for beautiful photos and a stress-free day.



After photographing weddings for over a decade, I’ve learned that it’s the small details—thoughtful timing, light-filled spaces, and a few key people knowing what to do—that help everything feel smooth and joyful. These are my go-to tips and tricks, gathered from years behind the camera, to help you get the most out of your photos and your wedding day.

A tender emotional embrace between father and bride at a wedding ceremony with a bouquet of white flowers visible in the background.

Plan for the Hug Rush

Right after you say “I do,” there’s usually a beautiful, chaotic few minutes where everyone wants to hug you. It’s emotional, spontaneous, and so worth capturing. I always suggest setting aside 15–20 minutes post-ceremony for this moment. These are some of the most honest, joyful photos you'll get all day.


Want Altar Photos? Ask First.

If you’re planning formal photos at the altar after the ceremony, make sure to check with the parish ahead of time. Some churches have strict timelines or back-to-back bookings. Knowing this in advance helps us make the most of your access time.

Bride and mother of the bride pose with elegant bridal bouquet featuring peach and white flowers against blue wall backdrop.

Portraits in More Than One Spot? Let’s Talk Cars.

If we’re heading to more than one location for portraits, double check that everyone has a ride—and enough seats. I always offer my own vehicle as backup—I can comfortably bring along five extra people if needed!


Light Matters (Especially at the Reception)

Venues with natural light make all the difference for those gorgeous candid shots. If your reception has windows, try not to block them with big installations or curtains. More light means fewer flashes, more atmosphere, and photos that feel like real life.


The Getting Ready Space Sets the Tone

Let’s be honest—getting ready spaces can get chaotic. You’ve got bridesmaids, makeup artists, curling irons, coffee cups, suitcases, snacks, and about three half-empty water bottles per person. Everyone’s in celebration mode (as they should be!), but when a bunch of people—and their habits—share one room, things can get messy fast. This is true for the groomsmen too!


Before I arrive, take a few minutes to tidy up the area where you’ll be getting into your dress. Clear off surfaces, tuck bags under beds, and gather any random clutter into one corner or closet. You don’t need a magazine-perfect room—just a calm little space that feels peaceful and light-filled. Neutral tones, clean walls, and good window light make a world of difference for those dreamy, timeless shots you’re going to want to frame.


Bonus tip: designate one person (a sibling, friend, or early riser) to do a quick tidy sweep before I arrive. It’ll help everything feel more relaxed and focused, and your photos will thank you.

Someone helps attach a white rose boutonniere to a man's formal black tuxedo lapel while he smiles joyfully.

Talk to Your Florist

This one is often overlooked: ask your florist for boutonniere instructions and bouquet care tips. Can't tell you how many times I've stepped in to help put on a boutonniere (because most people only do this a handful of times in their entire lives). Knowing how to pin the flowers and how to keep them fresh for photos goes a long way in making sure everything looks perfect.


Family Photos Go Faster with a List

Formal family portraits are quick and painless with a clear shot list. I recommend writing out your groupings ahead of time and asking someone from each side of the family (a sibling or close friend works great!) to help round people up. It saves time and keeps things smooth and happy.


Give the MOH & Best Man a Game Plan

Your maid of honor and best man are your wedding day MVPs. Ask your MOH to help keep your dress fluffed, your bouquet in reach, and your hair and makeup looking fresh during portraits. The best man? He’s your guy for wrangling the wedding party and family when it’s time for group photos. Let them know their roles ahead of time so they’re ready to step in and shine.

A happy couple poses together in formal wedding attire on a rooftop during sunset with city buildings in the background.

Consider an Unplugged Ceremony

This one’s personal choice, but I always encourage it: ask your officiant to invite guests to put away their phones and be present. Not only does it keep the focus on the moment, but it ensures your aisle shots are full of smiling faces—not screens.


Build in Breathing Room

Wedding days almost never run exactly on time. Literally not one wedding I've been to has started on time. Adding a bit of buffer between events helps everything feel less rushed—and keeps the energy calm if something runs late. Even 10 extra minutes here or there makes a difference.


Golden Hour is Gold

If the timing works, we’ll sneak out for 10–15 minutes during golden hour (that dreamy stretch just before sunset). It’s when the light is soft, romantic, and cinematic. Plus, it’s often the only quiet moment the two of you will have alone all day. And I'm more than happy to leave and come back for this moment if you've booked a shorter package (only if it happens to work with my schedule, just ask!).

A group of people in formal attire share a candid moment outdoors near a white building in natural lighting.

My Two Cents on the Child-Free Wedding Trend…

I’ll just say it—child-free weddings are not my favourite. The BEST weddings are the ones with kids in them. There’s something so pure and joyful about having little ones running around, blowing bubbles, dancing in circles, and sometimes even stealing the show.


The whole day feels more alive when there are children present. It’s a reminder of the legacy your marriage is building and adds a layer of warmth and real-life beauty that can’t be manufactured.


If you're inviting families, make it fun and easy for them! Buy a bunch of bubbles for the ceremony or reception, print out some themed colouring sheets, and hit up the dollar store for simple games or little toys to keep tiny hands busy. Set up a small kids’ table or play corner at the reception, and everyone will thank you—especially the parents!


Bonus? When there are kids around, and alcohol is being served, adults tend to do a little self-regulating (wink). Everybody wins.


Children belong at weddings. Period.


Split Coverage? Absolutely.

If there’s a big gap between your ceremony and reception (or other events), I’m more than happy to split my coverage so I can be there for the moments that really matter. Not your guests munching away at their dinner! Let’s build a timeline that gives you what you need without feeling rushed or over-scheduled.


A vintage black and white photograph of children playing and jumping outdoors with joyful expressions.

Final Thoughts


These are the little things that make a big difference—things I’ve picked up after years of being invited into one of the most important days of people’s lives. If there’s ever anything you’re unsure about, just ask. I’m here to help you feel prepared, relaxed, and beautifully yourself from start to finish.

Let’s make it a day you’ll never forget.

– Andrea