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Why Your Wedding Needs a Private Last Dance: A Perfect Ending to Your Day

Picture this: the reception is winding down, your guests are chatting and celebrating, but you and your partner step away for one last intimate moment. Just the two of you on the dance floor, with the world fading into the background. This is the magic of a private last dance—and here’s why it might be the most unforgettable part of your wedding day.

Wedding Days Are a Blur

Between the excitement, endless congratulations, and whirlwind of activities, your wedding day will fly by in a blink. Most couples find that there’s barely any time to truly soak in what’s happening. A private last dance creates a moment where you can slow down, reconnect, and reflect on the day you’ve just experienced together.

private last danceWhy a Private Last Dance Matters

  1. A Moment to Reconnect
    After spending most of your day surrounded by loved ones, a private last dance offers a rare moment of peace and connection. Just you, your partner, and a song that means something special. This quiet time together lets you pause, look at each other, and truly appreciate the incredible journey you’ve begun.

  2. A Chance to Catch Your Breath
    The reception can be a blur of dancing, toasts, and mingling with guests. A private last dance allows you to take a deep breath and savor the final moments of your wedding day. It’s a brief but meaningful pause before stepping into the next chapter of your lives as a married couple.

  3. A Photographer’s Dream
    From a photographer’s perspective, a private last dance provides some of the most emotional, genuine shots of the entire day. Without the distraction of guests, we can capture the quiet joy, the smiles, and the soft, intimate moments between you and your partner. These images often become some of the most cherished ones in your wedding album.

  4. End the Day Your Way
    As your guests enjoy the final songs of the night, a private last dance lets you end your celebration in a way that’s intentional and meaningful. Whether it’s to your favorite song or something that feels more reflective, this dance is yours—without interruptions, just the two of you ending your day with love and calm.

  5. Smooth Transition to Your Grand Exit
    A private last dance also helps with logistics. It gives your wedding party and coordinator time to organize and prep for your grand exit. This quiet moment together allows everything behind the scenes to flow seamlessly, ensuring a perfect transition to that magical send-off.

Private last dance weddingWhy You Should Consider It

Including a private last dance in your wedding timeline doesn’t just create a beautiful moment to cap off the day—it offers you a chance to breathe, connect, and reflect before stepping into your future together. It’s a peaceful, heartfelt way to end the night and make sure your final moments as newlyweds are truly unforgettable.

So, when planning your big day, think about adding this one final dance for just the two of you. It’s a small but powerful way to make sure you leave your wedding with love, intimacy, and a moment you’ll cherish forever. 🌟

Why Your First Dance Should Follow Your Grand Entrance

The grand entrance at a wedding is one of those big, unforgettable moments. You and your partner step into the room as newlyweds for the first time, and everyone’s eyes are on you. It’s electric, exciting, and filled with joy. So, why not take advantage of that energy and dive straight into your first dance? Here’s why having your first dance right after your grand entrance can be a magical choice:

1. Ride the Wave of Excitement

Your grand entrance sets the tone for the rest of the celebration. The energy is high, the crowd is cheering, and everyone is already on their feet. This is the perfect moment to glide straight into your first dance while the excitement is at its peak. It makes the transition seamless and keeps the momentum going, making the moment feel even more special and cinematic.

2. Break the Ice and Calm the Nerves

Let’s be real—dancing in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking. But guess what? The hardest part is already done. You’ve walked in, the spotlight is on you, and everyone is already cheering. By jumping right into your first dance, you can get the most nerve-wracking part of the reception over with quickly. Plus, that initial excitement can help ease any lingering jitters, allowing you to focus on each other and enjoy the dance rather than worrying about it all night.

3. Create a Natural Flow for Your Reception

Starting your first dance immediately after the entrance creates a smooth, natural flow to your reception timeline. It avoids the awkward “What happens next?” moment for both you and your guests. Your guests are already focused on you, making it the perfect opportunity to keep the spotlight and move effortlessly into a romantic moment. Afterward, you can transition into dinner, toasts, or even open up the dance floor, all without missing a beat.

4. Capture Stunning, Emotion-Filled Photos

Your photographer is primed and ready to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments during your grand entrance. By having your first dance right after, you’re giving them the perfect opportunity to capture a sequence of high-energy, emotional shots. You’ll get photos filled with raw, genuine emotion—the joy on your faces as you walk in and the love between you as you share that first dance.

5. Keep Your Guests Engaged

Let’s face it—there’s always a bit of a lull in the wedding reception when guests are waiting for the next big moment. By going straight into your first dance, you keep the energy high and the guests engaged. It’s a way of telling your guests, “The party starts now!” Plus, it gives them a beautiful, intimate moment to enjoy before they get swept up in the festivities.

6. Start the Celebration on a Romantic Note

Your first dance is a beautiful, romantic highlight of the day. By starting the reception with this intimate moment, you set a loving tone for the entire evening. It’s a way to signal that this celebration is about the two of you and your unique love story. The rest of the night then becomes a continuation of that story, with your guests dancing, laughing, and celebrating alongside you.

7. Maximize Dance Floor Time Later

By having your first dance early, you free up the dance floor for later in the evening. Once the formalities are out of the way, you can spend more time on the dance floor with your guests without worrying about fitting in your first dance. This means more time for everyone to let loose and enjoy the party!

In Summary

Having your first dance immediately after your grand entrance is like catching lightning in a bottle. It’s a seamless, exciting way to keep the energy high, engage your guests, and start the celebration with a romantic flair. You’ll break the ice, set the tone for the evening, and create a series of unforgettable moments that flow naturally into the rest of your reception. So, why wait? Take that energy and turn it into a memory you’ll cherish forever.

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Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer: Beyond the Price Tag

How to Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer: Key Questions to Consider

When planning your wedding, choosing the right photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While the price is a significant factor, it’s crucial to dig deeper to ensure you find a photographer who perfectly aligns with your vision and needs. Here are some essential questions to ask your wedding photographer that go beyond just discussing the cost:

1. What is Your Photography Style?

Understanding a photographer’s style is key to ensuring their work aligns with your vision for your wedding day. Whether you prefer traditional posed shots, photojournalistic storytelling, or fine art photography, make sure their style matches what you envision for your special day.

2. Can We See a Full Wedding Gallery?

It’s easy to be swayed by a photographer’s highlight reel, but to get a true sense of their work, ask to see a complete wedding gallery. This will give you insight into how they capture the entirety of the day, from start to finish.

3. What Is Included in Your Packages?

Different photographers offer various packages, so it’s important to know what’s included. Ask about the number of hours of coverage, whether a second photographer is included, and what extras are part of the package, such as prints, albums, or digital files.

4. Do You Have a Backup Plan for Equipment Failure?

Technical issues can happen, so it’s crucial to know if your photographer has backup equipment ready to go. This ensures that they can handle any unexpected problems without compromising the quality of your photos.

5. How Do You Handle Unpredictable Situations, Like Weather or Venue Restrictions?

No one can predict the weather or specific venue restrictions. Ask how the photographer adapts to such situations and how they ensure they can still capture beautiful photos regardless of the circumstances.

6. How Many Weddings Have You Shot?

Experience matters in wedding photography. Find out how many weddings the photographer has covered to gauge their level of expertise and their ability to handle the dynamics of a wedding day.

7. Can You Provide References from Previous Clients?

Talking to past clients can offer valuable insights into the photographer’s professionalism, work ethic, and overall satisfaction. Ask for references to hear firsthand experiences from couples who have worked with them.

8. How Will You Coordinate with Other Vendors?

Smooth coordination with your wedding planner, videographer, and other vendors is crucial for capturing the best moments. Inquire about how the photographer works with other professionals to ensure a seamless experience.

9. What is Your Approach to Posing and Candid Shots?

Photographers vary in their approach to posing and capturing candid moments. Clarify whether they prefer directing poses or focusing on candid shots, and discuss how they handle special requests.

10. What is Your Editing Process?

Editing can significantly impact the final look of your photos. Ask about the photographer’s editing process, how many photos you can expect, and the style of editing they use to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

11. What is the Timeline for Receiving the Photos?

Understand the expected timeline for receiving your photos. Photographers usually take time to edit and process images, so ask about how long it will take to get your final photos and in what formats they will be delivered.

12. Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs?

Be clear about any potential extra charges. This could include travel expenses, overtime, or additional prints and albums. Knowing about these upfront will help you avoid surprises later.

13. How Do You Handle Copyright and Usage of the Photos?

Discuss the rights to the photos and how you can use them. Ensure you understand the photographer’s policies regarding social media sharing, printing, and any limitations on the use of the images.

14. What Happens if You’re Unable to Attend the Wedding?

In the rare event that the photographer cannot attend your wedding, it’s important to know their contingency plans. Ask if they have a backup photographer or an alternative solution to ensure your day is still captured beautifully.

Asking these questions will help you get a comprehensive understanding of your wedding photographer’s approach, experience, and services. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and ensure that your wedding photos are everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

Learn more about the Wedding Experience when working with me.

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Working on your wedding Timeline

A comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect wedding timeline.

Planning a wedding involves many details, and creating a wedding day timeline is crucial for ensuring everything runs smoothly. A well-structured timeline helps coordinate vendors, manage the flow of events, and keep everyone on schedule. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft the perfect wedding day timeline.

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Key Components of a Wedding Day Timeline

1. Getting Ready (4-5 Hours)

  • Hair and Makeup: Schedule hair and makeup for the bridal party, usually starting with the bridesmaids and ending with the bride. Allow about 30-45 minutes per person.
  • Getting Dressed: Plan 30 minutes to an hour for the bride and bridesmaids to get dressed. You will want your bridesmaids to be dressed first if you want any photos of them helping you into your dress.
  • Photos: Allocate time for pre-ceremony wedding photos, including shots of the bride, bridal party, and immediate family as well as first looks (with your soon-to-be spouse or someone special in your family). This typically takes 1-2 hours.

Example Timeline:

  • 8:00 AM – Hair and makeup begin (don’t forget to eat breakfast & lunch)
  • 11:00 AM – Bride gets dressed
  • 11:30 AM – Pre-ceremony photos

2. First Look (30 Minutes)

  • If you opt for a first look, plan about 30 minutes for this special moment and the accompanying photos. You will want to have these done at least 30 minutes before guests should start arriving so we can stash you back in your hiding spot.

3. Ceremony (30 Minutes to 1 Hour)

  • Factor in time for guests to arrive and be seated. The ceremony itself usually lasts between 20-30 minutes but can vary depending on the type of service.

Example Timeline:

  • 1:00 PM – Guests begin to arrive
  • 1:30 PM – Ceremony starts
  • 2:00 PM – Ceremony ends

4. Post-Ceremony Photos (1-2 Hours)

  • Family photos, bridal party photos, and couple portraits are typically taken during this time. Ensure you have a list of must-have shots to keep things moving efficiently. To ensure this moves smoothly, make sure to designate someone to be your “family wrangler.” This is someone who knows your family and can make sure they are where they are supposed to be (in their seats waiting for their turn, in the photo…)

5. Cocktail Hour (1 Hour)

  • While photos are being taken, guests can enjoy cocktails and appetizers. This is also a good time for the couple to have a brief moment together before the reception.

Example Timeline:

  • 2:00 PM – Cocktail hour begins
  • 3:00 PM – Cocktail hour ends

6. Reception (4-5 Hours)

  • The reception timeline includes the grand entrance, first dance, dinner, toasts, cake cutting, and dancing. Here’s a breakdown of common reception events:

Example Timeline:

  • 3:00 PM – Reception begins with the grand entrance (you can shave time by going right into a first dance after your grand entrance)
  • 3:15 PM – First dance
  • 3:30 PM – Dinner is served
  • 4:30 PM – Toasts and speeches
  • 5:00 PM – Cake cutting
  • 5:15 PM – Dancing begins
  • 7:30 PM – Sneak out for sunset photos
  • 8:00 PM – Last dance
  • 8:15 PM – Couple’s send-off

Tips for a Seamless Timeline

  1. Communicate with Vendors: Ensure all vendors are aware of the timeline and their specific roles.
  2. Build in Buffer Time: Add extra time between events to account for any delays. If you know you have perpetually late friends/family (or if that’s you), make sure to account for that.
  3. Delegate: Assign a trusted person, like a wedding planner or coordinator, to keep the day on track.
  4. Be Flexible: Be prepared to adapt the timeline as needed. Weddings can be unpredictable, and a bit of flexibility can help keep the day stress-free.

Conclusion

A well-planned wedding day timeline is the backbone of a smooth and enjoyable celebration. By organizing the day’s events and allowing sufficient time for each activity, you’ll ensure that your wedding day is as stress-free and memorable as possible. Whether you’re working with a wedding planner or managing the details yourself, a clear and detailed timeline is your best tool for success.

For more detailed templates and examples, consider checking out resources like The Knot, WeddingWire, and Brides, which offer comprehensive guides and customizable timeline templates​ (Atlanta Magazine)​​ (All-American Atlas)​ .

Texas Renaissance Wedding

Christopher & Maureen’s Texas Renaissance Festival wedding.

As a kid growing up in the Houston area, I felt like we always managed to go to the Ren Fest at least once a year. I have vivid memories of wearing flower crowns and playing with wooden swords with some friends. The Texas Renaissance Festival holds a special place in my heart. I am so fortunate to be able to do one of my favorite things (take wedding photos) at one of my favorite places.

The one thing I know working a Texas Renaissance wedding is that this place is just as special to me as it is to my couples, and Christopher & Maureen were no different.

Maureen rode the carriage with her wedding party to the English Garden Wedding Chapel which is covered in lush green vines with an open air seating area. When the officiant got to the rings part of the ceremony, a falcon delivered them. This, I think, is one of the coolest benefits to having a wedding at the Ren Fest (that and the built in entertainment).

The couple had a procession from the chapel to one of the reception areas in the back of the grounds. There, they did some traditional things like cake cutting & speeches. After their reception was over, most of the guests were free to wonder the grounds. Some of their closer friends and family followed along for the fun of wedding portraits. We went to some of the couple’s favorite places to take photos and just enjoy the beautiful day. They told me they went to the forge the day before to have some custom things made.

We finished the day with a drink at the Pirate bar and a little jousting entertainment. Maureen’s sister is a professional jouster, so it was extra special.

Congratulations to Christopher & Maureen!!

 

Vendors:

Venue & Food: Texas Renaissance Festival

Wedding Gown: Inga Ezergale Designs

 

Houston JP Wedding

Lee & Stephany’s JP wedding at the downtown Houston courthouse.

Monday Andy and I took the spawn to the local courthouse to get his very first passport. That reminded me of this amazing JP wedding I shot downtown last year. The interesting thing about the JP weddings at the downtown courthouse is that they don’t happen in an actual court but in the rotunda. Family can line up along the spiral staircase or around the edge of the rotunda to watch.

Before Lee and Stephany’s wedding, we took some family photos as well as couple portraits around the courthouse. I loved getting to meet their fur-baby and taking some photos of him as well.

Check out the photos here!

 

Houston’s Hottest Wedding Trends

A Glimpse into 2024 Wedding Celebrations

Happy 2024 Y’all!

As the bustling city of Houston gears up for another year of love and matrimony, couples are setting the stage for weddings that blend tradition with the contemporary. 2024 promises to be an exciting time for weddings in Houston, with trends that showcase the city’s rich cultural diversity, love for innovation, and a touch of Southern charm. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top wedding trends that are set to make waves in the Houston wedding scene.

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  1. Texan Elegance:

Houston couples are infusing their weddings with a touch of Texan charm, celebrating the city’s rich cultural heritage. Rustic elements, cowboy boots, and Southern-inspired cuisine are making a comeback. From BBQ buffets to Tex-Mex flavors, couples are incorporating local tastes to create a wedding experience that is distinctly Houstonian.

  1. Outdoor Extravaganzas:

With its favorable climate, Houston continues to be a hub for outdoor weddings. In 2024, couples are choosing picturesque outdoor venues such as lush gardens, vineyards, and waterfront locations. Outdoor ceremonies and receptions under the Texas sky are gaining popularity, providing a natural and romantic backdrop for the celebration.

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  1. Cultural Fusion:

Houston’s diverse population is reflected in the wedding trends of 2024, with couples embracing cultural fusion in their celebrations. From incorporating traditional rituals to infusing diverse cuisines and music styles, weddings in Houston are a melting pot of cultural influences that honor the backgrounds of both partners.

  1. Houston Skyline as the Backdrop:

As the cityscape of Houston evolves, couples are choosing iconic venues with panoramic views of the Houston skyline. Rooftop weddings and venues with large windows overlooking the city are becoming increasingly popular, offering a breathtaking backdrop for both daytime and evening celebrations.

  1. Live Music Experiences:

Known for its vibrant music scene, Houston weddings are turning into live music extravaganzas. Couples are hiring local bands, solo artists, and DJs to create an electric atmosphere. From classic country tunes to contemporary hits, live music is becoming an integral part of the wedding experience in Houston.

  1. Blend of Modern and Vintage:

In 2024, couples are striking a balance between modern elegance and vintage charm. Mixing sleek, contemporary decor with subtle nods to the past, such as vintage-inspired attire and classic car arrivals, creates a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic for Houston weddings.

  1. Technology Integration:

As a tech-forward city, Houston couples are incorporating cutting-edge technology into their wedding celebrations. From virtual reality experiences to personalized wedding apps, technology is enhancing the guest experience and allowing couples to share their special day with friends and family, no matter where they are.

Houston, with its dynamic spirit and diverse culture, is poised to be a trendsetter in the wedding scene in 2024. From Texan elegance to cultural fusion, outdoor extravaganzas to breathtaking skyline views, couples are weaving a tapestry of love that reflects the unique essence of Houston. As we embark on another year of love stories, Houston weddings are set to be a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and the undeniable warmth that the city is known for.

Lord of the Rings Themed Wedding

Jared & Elzabeth’s Lord of the Rings themed wedding

It was a blazing hot day in June when Jared & Liz tied the proverbial knot at a small church in Houston. Luckly, the wedding was an indoor affair (with limited stents outside in the heat for quick photos). The couple has a love for all things LOTR… and swords… so it was only fitting that they styled their wedding around this passion.

As a fellow nerd, I was over the moon when I found out the theme of their wedding. This would be my second Lord of the Ring wedding in less than a year! In true Hobbit fashion, the couple and most of their wedding party opted for bare feet.

Jared and Liz opted for a private first look. I set Jared up under a pergola on the property and had Liz walk to him. I love first looks. If you’re a more private couple, or maybe a little shy, it’s a nice touch. In leu of a father-daughter dance, Liz and her father had a beautifully touching slideshow. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

“Po-tay-toes!* Boil ’em, mash ’em, stick ’em in a stew…“

The couple offered a baked potato bar that they brought and set up. They also had a variety of tasty cupcakes for their guests.

At the end of the day, the couple had a grand exit filled with bubbles and a sword arch from their wedding party.

#brownleetobe

 

Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Wedding in Houston

Kyle and Lauren’s Downtown Houston Texas wedding at the Crystal Ballroom at the Rice.

In February I had the pleasure of hanging out with the, now, Luong’s for nearly the entire weekend! I caught up with them at Kim Son’s Downtown for their epic rehearsal dinner. Kyle and Lauren honored Kyle’s heritage by wearing traditional outfits for their rehearsal as well as hiring some really awesome Lion Dancers!

The following day, I caught back up with the amazing couple at the Rice. Lauren and her bridesmaids got ready in the bridal suite there while Kyle got ready at a nearby hotel with his grooms men. I nearly forgot until I was posting photos, that Lauren stitched some love notes into Kyle’s tie and jacket. What a sweet idea.

The couple decided they wanted both a first touch and a first look. For the first touch, they read their vows to each other in private while holding hands and looking in opposite directions. I mean in near total privacy. All photography parties (including myself) hung out in a very loud room and took photos and video through the paned glass door like the paparazzi. We couldn’t hear a word they spoke to each other. After the first touch, we ushered Lauren and Kyle into different rooms and re-positioned them on the balcony for a gorgeous first look! It was one of the best first looks I’ve experienced. Kyle was in total awe of Lauren’s dress and had to take a look at every inch.

After Kyle & Lauren had their first look, Lauren had a first look with her father. Kyle decided he wanted to do a first look with the bridesmaids, so we lined them up for a first look on the balcony. After that, the grooms men wanted a first look with Lauren (which was one of the most adorable first looks). We then shot a couple of group photos on the balcony and on the streets of Downtown Houston before catching a chartered bus to the church for the ceremony.

Once back at the Crystal Ballroom, Kyle and Lauren were whisked to the bridal suite for a private dinner while their guests enjoyed a cocktail hour. This is probably one of the BEST things a couple can do for their reception. Once done eating, they got to take a private tour of their reception hall before their guests took their seats. During the night, the couple did a photo-dash, danced their hearts out and ate some amazing looking gluten-free cake (allergies are the best!…).

At the end of the night, the guests sent the happy couple off in a haze of bubbles.

Vendors:

 

Ring bearer Alternatives

Little boys 5 and under in a tux is the cutest thing in the world, but sometimes it’s not feasible to have an adorable kid as your ring bearer at your wedding.

Here are 5 alternatives for a ring barer.

  1. Don’t have one. Just send the rings down with the best man or if the maid/matron of honor has pockets, she can hold them too!
  2. Have an older relative walk the rings down the aisle. If you’re really close to your grandpa and want him to take part in your wedding, now’s your chance! If you have a cousin or sibling that you want in your wedding but don’t have the room for them as a groomsman, they can be an extra enthusiastic ring bearer (with fanny-pack and all).
  3. Do you have a pet that’s special to you? Strap the rings to your pet and have someone walk them down the aisle.
  4. Use technology. Send an RC car or drone down the aisle with the ring. Bonus points if the drone can drop the rings into someone’s hand!
  5. Want to be extra? Hire a falconer to send your rings down the aisle with a falcon!

Do you have any creative ideas on getting your wedding rings down the aisle? I would love to hear them. Leave me a comment!

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kelly@kellyurbanphotography.comKelly Urban Photography

A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
Richmond, TX

A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
Richmond, TX
kelly@kellyurbanphotography.comKelly Urban Photography

A Houston wedding photographer