Somehow Wednesday flew by before I had a chance to sit and write the next fun post for the Wedding Wednesday series. I recently updated my Facebook status saying how fast time is flying by this year. It almost feels like Mr. Time hopped on the Concorde as of lately. So it looks like this post should be titled “Wedding Wednesday…a day late”. haha.

This past weekend I had the privilege of being on the other end of the wedding festivities. Instead of documenting the day, I was participating in my sister’s wedding in Chicago. What an amazing 4 days it was to be back home with friends & family AND to see my sweet sister marry such an incredible man. Congratulations Sarah & Ari – I love you! You are probably wondering how this is leading into my newest topic for WW. Well, my sister called me up prior to the wedding to ask my advice on things to include in the welcome bags/baskets. Having shot several destination weddings, I have received some very creative and fun welcome bags and they are a treat to open.

Here are a few thoughts:

1. Include a basic itinerary of the wedding-related activities.
2. Provide a couple of water bottles, snacks, mints, gum and anything else a traveling guest may enjoy.
3. All contact information in case a guest has questions. Assigning someone to this number is helpful because the bride & groom will be busy.
4. Maps & local coupons.
5. Something specific to your theme.
6. Something specific to the location of your wedding.
7. A note pad & pen.

You can be as creative as you want. This is a special way to let your traveling guests know how much you appreciate them sharing in this special day with you and your family.

Welcome bag notes can be found on Etsy.

Thank you for stopping by!

~lisa

As I sit here and edit my most recent engagement shoot, the topic for this week’s Wedding Wednesday came to me. It has to do with the connection you feel with your chosen photographer. I will often tell prospective clients during a consultation that you have to not only love the work of your wedding photographer, but you MUST feel a little bit of a connection, chemistry and most importantly…feel comfortable. If you do not feel these things, it will likely show in your most cherished images. I cannot help but smile while going through this soon to be posted engagement shoot because I can truly feel the love between this couple. I can hear their laughter. I can see how comfortable they are just closing their eyes and being still for a brief moment. Anyone can sit and pose for the camera, but being comfortable enough to show who you really are and capturing that on film is priceless. Truly.

~lisa