As I’m in my fourteenth year as a wedding photographer, it is amazing to look back and consider the amazing DIY brides that I’ve photographed over the years.  We really cater to the DIY wedding couples who value photography, yet are looking to both express themselves and cut back on wedding expenses.

Here are my top handful of ways that you can showcase your own talents, personality, and family heirlooms on your wedding day without breaking the bank.

DIY Wedding Flowers

I’ve had countless brides who have put together their own bouquets, and they have all been charming, unique, and deeply personal.  I’ve seen them made out of broaches, paper folding, pinecones, silk and fresh flowers, and with all kinds of personal details.

DIY Wedding Decor

It’s always special when I hear about brides and grooms who have gathered friends and family together to create unique and meaningful decor for their wedding day.  Often it is for the reception and table decor, but even at the wedding venue we see many personal details shining through. Here are a handful of DIY backdrops and centerpieces that really stand out.

DIY Guest books

When I was a kid my parents stuck by the tradition of a guestbook on a stand by the front door.  As guests stopped by, they’d sign the book, and occasionally we’d go back through and reminisce about the people who had filled our home. Even today, though that tradition is rare, the wedding guest book still remains. In many weddings though, the book itself is often replaced with more personal or decorative options.

Some of my clients have used rocks, thumbprints, or plates for guests to sign.

One favorite DIY guestbook was a vintage copy of a favorite novel.

Though not entirely DIY, we offer a photo guest book that showcases engagement photography.  This is certainly personal and a keepsake for years to come.

DIY Wedding Food and Dessert

Cooking your own food for your wedding day certainly comes with its own logistical challenges.  Some of the ways wedding couples have tied their favorite foods into the wedding day has been such a (tasty!) pleasure.  It hasn’t all been exactly do it yourself, but keeping the responsibilities close to home or helping the caterer truly cater to your clever ideas can really heighten the celebration.

I’ve seen s’mores, handmade pies and cakes, and even donuts!

DIY Wedding Activities

Dinner and dancing may be the best route for many, but we’ve had many couples pass in front of my lens that were really seeking to find an alternative to those traditional activities- something to suit their guests and themselves better.

I’ve attended bonfire receptions, seen handmade beanbag toss games, board game rooms, and even Guitar Hero competitions and costumes!

It’s fun for your guests when you consider their preferences and are willing to think outside the box. As much as I love hitting the dance floor, I know just as many friends who would much rather grab a cup of hot cocoa and play a board game or do a puzzle at their table.

I am eager to see what new and clever DIY brides come my way in the coming wedding seasons! It’s always an adventure and keeps it fresh as we continue to celebrate new families!

In this day and age, we call men “guys” and yet on a wedding day, we expect gentlemen. A lot of the fashion sense and etiquette we have grown to expect has been lost over generations of increasing casualness. Do you know how to pin on a boutineer? Outside of prom, you probably have not worn one. What about a pocket square? Do you know how to tie a tie? Use studs and cufflinks?

Increase the pressure, a photographer like me is going to photograph you trying to figure it out.

Do your homework and practice a bit. The Art of Manliness has tons of great tutorials to help you out. If you get stuck that day, I’ll help you out.

Beyond all the formalwear, your purpose is both to witness and support the bride and groom in their new marriage. You watch and affirm the life-long commitment they are making to one another, and say, “Yes! I think this is a good idea!” Keep your knees unlocked so you can attentively bless and encourage your friends or family as they are getting married. Though it makes a good story, I’d suggest avoiding fainting.

During portraits or other transitions, help the couple by carrying things or offering to help with anything they need. Bring some water, grab a snack, chapstick, or drive the car around.

Many Best Men know their duties include a toast. I’ve seen all sorts. Including one with a sword. Most with laughing, some with crying, and the occasional poorly prepared toast. Do your best to bless the couple and stick to your personality to aid the celebration.

Are you an usher? Ushers usually get off easy or no one knows how to tell you your job. But people want to see, and your job is to escort people to their seats and help them find the best place to sit for their size of party. Perhaps it’s a family with a young child. Place them near an aisle (not the center aisle, if you can), so they can escape if needed. Family? Up close. Large group, help them find the open areas so they can sit together.

Etiquette would encourage you to escort the eldest female by the arm, and her partner or family would follow.

What about during all those pictures? The best groomsmen are respectful of the couple and the photographer and full of fun. Sometimes all the guys have known each other for years, and it’s joyful reunion. Sometimes the groomsmen come from all walks of the groom’s life, so they don’t have long-term camaraderie, and that’s ok, but do your best to break out of your shell and have fun. Listen to the photographer and do your best to listen to their lame jokes to keep you smiling.

The photographs will be cleaner and taken faster if you leave your phone and keys in the car or limo. Empty those pockets, please! Same goes for sunglasses unless that’s part of the game-plan.

If you are married, dating, or otherwise connected with a bridesmaid, stick close and you’re likely to be positioned in the photograph with the person you like best. When a photographer is moving fast, group portraits are often done by who is closest or the height that balances the photo the best.