How to Give a Proper Toast at a Wedding | Arden Photography

Public speaking: an activity that holds a vicious grip on many people’s number one top fears. Yet, what do you do when your dear family member or friend asks you to take part in the special tradition of presenting a wedding toast on their big day? You say, “YES, of course,” because they love and appreciate you so much that they want to cherish the memory of you speaking at their wedding for a lifetime. So, where to begin? Below is a simple and quaint outline you can base your speech on, as well as a few things to think about and avoid. The road to a wedding toast is daunting, but not impossible, and no matter what, just smile.

Wedding Toast Outline:

1. Thank the host

2. Engaging opener

3. Simple, but endearing anecdote about bride & groom (individual &/or as a couple)

4. Compliment bride & groom individually & their partnership

5. Well wishes and congratulations

Do’s:

• Practice

• Coordinate with the wedding planner

• Tactfully get the guests’s attention

• Keep it simple

• Speak to the room and get them involved in your speech

• Be sincere

• Mix humor and sentimentality

• Keep it appropriate

• End on a sweet note

Avoid:

• Too much alcohol prior to the toast

• Past relationships/negative commentary on marriage

• X-rated topics

• Bathroom humor/inside jokes

• Your personal life

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Looking & Feeling Good on Your Wedding Day: Men's Edition

Much to many people’s surprise, a wedding isn’t only about the bride. The groom should be just as mentally, physically, and emotionally prepared as his beloved. By you taking the time to put in the effort to prep yourself for your big day, not only will the festivities flow smoother, but it will also take a lot of pressure off of your significant other in regard to them not having to simultaneously worry about you and themselves. Below are a few things to consider to make sure you’re feeling and looking your best for your shared and long-awaited wedding day.

• Grooming

  • Smile: Consider getting your teeth whitened, and/or skipping out on the coffee and tea several weeks before the big day.

  • Hair: Get your hair cut, but NOT the day before the wedding. You want to look clean and fresh, and the ample time in between your hair appointment and wedding should allow fo any mishaps to be combed over.

  • Face: Consider a skincare routine. The bride isn’t the only one who should focus on having a clear face on you guys’s special day.

  • Hydrate: Not only will it keep any accidents from occurring in regard to dehydration, but water does amazing things for your skin when consumed often and frequently.

• Dress

  • Suit: Get a color that you feel confident in and that will also compliment the theme of your wedding. Also, make sure that it is tailored to perfection. A well-fitted suit looks phenomenal in photographs and will make you exude confidence.

  • Accessorize: Think of accessories as a way to bring out your personality on your big day. A sleek watch or classic jewelry, always adds a touch of character to your overall ensemble.

• Practice

  • Vows: Say them out loud to get the hang of what you wrote down. This way you’ll be able to edit out any unwanted stumbles or unnecessary information.

  • Speech: it’s gonna happen, and it’ll happen fast. Prepare and practice your speech so you can continue on celebrating without any mishaps.

  • Poses: Your bride isn’t the only one that has to be photogenic. Practice posing and facial expressions. We want you to be comfortable in front of the camera because you and your partner will feed off of each other’s energy.

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

How To: Wedding Vows | Arden Photography

Probably coming in second of importance after saying, “I do,” wedding vows should be made a priority to create the perfect beginning of a life together with your partner. They should be personal, yet easily understood. Sophisticated, yet light-hearted. Realistic, yet present the dream you're willing to offer to your love. Wedding vows should be a balanced proclamation of your uniting love and forever future, but if you need a little nudge to help get you on track, here are a few tips to get your William Shakespeare on.

• Punctuality

  • Start early, and don’t wait till the last minute. Vows are meant to be personal and created with care.

• Talk to your partner

  • Establish a tone, structure, and word limit so that no one is being taken too seriously or not seriously enough and so that they don’t last for more than a couple of minutes.

• Reminisce

  • Think back on memories you have with your partner, the good and bad, to appreciate where you came from and how you have evolved into who you are now.

  • Look back at old pictures, trinkets, and experiences to become inspired and possibly include in the anecdotal portion of your vows.

  • Avoid anything too personal, embarrassing, or cryptic. Your vows should be unique, but they should also be understandable to your audience.

• Unsure of where to start or how to get out of writer’s block?

  • Make a list. This way you’ll be able to stream-of-consciousness write, convert those words into sentences, and then simplify and edit out anything unnecessary.

  • Look at other couple’s vows to get ideas and to reignite your inspiration.

  • Simply take a break. Sometimes we overthink too much and don’t allow ourselves the opportunity to enjoy the experience of celebrating our partners through our vows. Take a step back, breathe, and resume when you feel the time is right.

• Promises

  • Come up with several you can make to your spouse that you know you can keep and our realistic.

  • Avoid anything too cliché.

• Editing

  • Have someone you trust to read over your vows to make sure that they make sense and are easily listened to.

  • Simplify. We all want our vows to be perfect, but perfect does not equate to longwinded. Save intense proclamations for a private time to make it more personal.

  • Practice makes perfect. Practicing out loud will help you avoid any slip-ups and helps you understand how the audience will process your words.

  • Make a clean copy for yourself.

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Five Ways to be a Good Bridesmaid | Arden Photography

• Pay attention

  • Listen: The less times something has to be repeated the more laidback the experience is.

  • Body language: If someone, or, more importantly, the bride looks uncomfortable automatically see what can be done to take away any negative feelings.

  • Offer help if someone appears they are struggling.

• Be a team player

  • Not everyone in the bridal party may get along, but it’s your job to be civil. The bride wanted you and everyone else to be specifically involved for her special day, so put aside any hostility.

  • Be open-minded and understanding toward other’s special needs and personalities.

  • All bridesmaids should have a basic understanding and leniency of catering toward the bride’s needs and requests.

• Don’t share every opinion

  • When asked for, answer honestly but respectfully. Remember that although something may not be up to your standard, each wedding is individualized and unique to a couple, and they should be the ones happy with the outcome.

• Plan bachelorette party accordingly

  • Time can get away from the bride and her bridal party when planning for the big day. Make sure to take time to sit down and converse about date, location, and budget so that everyone can experience some fun R&R before the b ig day.

• Set boundaries

  • Sometimes requests and needs may be completely out of your control. If the bride gets upset or is asking for a lot of your time, respectfully address it and designate when you can be available. It’s okay to confront possible conflict before it gets too out of hand.

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Exiting in Style | Arden Photography

It’s down to the final minutes of your wedding festivities, but there’s still ONE more hurtle before being full-fledged, independent newlyweds… the exit. There are many takes on exiting the reception and that primarily depends on venue rules and regulations and the overall theme of your wedding. So, whether you want to be showered in luxurious rose petals or be picking glitter confetti out of your hair for the next month, here’s some creative exits depending on your personality and theme.

• Classic

  • Flower Petals

  • Dried Lavender

  • Vintage Car Getaway

  • Rice

  • Candles

• Fun

  • Glow Sticks

  • Confetti (check for eco-friendly)

  • Feathers

  • Paper Airplanes

  • Flags

  • Light Sticks

  • Ribbon Wands

  • Streamers

  • Balloons

• Glamourous

  • Feathers

  • Rose Petals

  • Sports Car Getaway

Quick Note: Be sure to check in with your venue to see what is allowed or not allowed for send-offs.

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Five Ways to be a Good Wedding Guest | Arden Photography

• RSVP

  • ASAP: This will give the couple/planner time to plan accordingly to guest influx.

  • “Officially”: Usually on invitations there is information to RSVP officially so that you don’t keep the bride and groom on their toes with a simple verbal response.

• Be positive

  • Avoid comparing and criticizing details: Each couple’s wedding is individual and unique to their own preferences. Save your opinions for your special day.

  • Share your excitement: Ultimately, the. couple wants you to be just as excited as you are about their long awaited day. If you’re excited, let them know you’re having a great time.

  • Mingle: Get to know those around you, and make friends and connections.

  • Offer to help: If you see someone or something not going as planned, offer to aid in making things go smoother… but, only if you mean it.

  • Be present: Weddings are meant to celebrate the happiness and love caused by the unity of two individuals, so celebrate… don’t worry about trivial conflict that can wait for another day.

• Check before you ask

  • Plus-one: Unless if other wise stated, don’t bring a plus-one that may or may not be welcome.

  • Don’t assume children are welcome: Sometimes children cause distractions, and sometimes that’s unwanted during a wedding ceremony. Make sure children are allowed and plan accordingly.

  • Dress: Dress for the occasion. Most of the time the invitation will state dress code ( if anything, it’s always better to dress up then dress under).

• Bring a gift

  • Registry: Check the couple’s registry so that you are gifting something that they need and will use.

  • Mail: Consider mailing your gift so that the couple doesn’t have to worry about gathering up and possibly misplacing your gift.

  • Card: Can’t/don’t want to bring a gift? Consider giving a card to show your appreciation toward the invite.

• Be considerate

  • Venue: Understand and follow the rules of the venue. The owners put a lot of effort to maintain their venue, and they don’t want to cause conflict by getting onto a guest that isn’t respecting their property.

  • Arrive on time: Be punctual. There is a designated time for a reason. Don’t interrupt something important.

  • Drink responsibly: Look, we all want to have fun and enjoy ourselves, but it also needs to be taken in moderation. Don’t cause other guests to be uncomfortable.

  • Silence your phone: One of the worst things would be for your phone to go off during an important speech or during vows… don’t be that person.

  • Talking during ceremony: Most ceremonies last between 30-45 minutes, allow the couple to take in everything without mindless chatter in the background.

  • Food allergies: If you have specific allergies, let the couple/planner know so that they can plan accordingly.

  • Respect the photographer: We all want to document this special day for our own memories, but it is very important for the hired photographer to be the front-runner in capturing the couple’s special moments. We want the newlyweds to have quality content to reminisce over.

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

How to Pack for Your Honeymoon | Arden Photography

Don’t get me wrong, your wedding day is DEFINITELY something to look forward to and enjoy, yet the (hopefully) slight stress and nerves that culminates into one day can pass by like a blur if you don’t take care to breathe it all in. Receptions usually do the job of loosening everyone up after a long day of hair and makeup, photos, tending to guests, you know… the works, BUT, where you FINALLY get to relax is during your honeymoon. One on one time with your new partner in life is high on the list of priorities after months of planning and waiting to officially call each other yours.

So, for that much deserved R&R, I’ve culminated a list of how to efficiently pack for your honeymoon, no matter the location. It’s much better to be over prepared than to be franticing last minute during an experience where you should be able to slow down and focus on your significant other.

Must-Haves/Carry-On

• Airline tickets/e-ticket confirmations

• Passport, visas, driver's license

• Credit cards 

• Reservation confirmations

• Important phone numbers

• Copies of the above

• Prescription medicine/Aspirin/Ibuprofen/Tavel-sickness pills

• Contraception 

• ID tags for luggage

• Camera

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Small bag of makeup

• Brush 

• Valuable jewelry

• In-flight reading

• Light sweater

• 1 change of clothing

• Travel pillow/blanket

• Sewing kit

• Headphones 

• Chargers for electric devices

Her Checked Bag

• 2 pairs of pants/jeans/leggings

• 1 light jacket/pullover

• 2-3 skirts/dresses 

• 1 cardigan

• 4 casual shirts 

• 2 blouses

• 2 pairs shorts {warm destinations}

• Swimsuit {if appropriate for destination}

• 1 swimsuit cover-up

• 2-3 pairs of sneakers/sandals/heels

• Evening wrap/jacket

• 1 evening purse/clutch

• Socks, underwear, & bras + extras {dependent on length of trip}

• Accessories

• Lingerie

His Checked Bag

• 2-3 pairs jeans/khakis/slacks

• 1 light jacket/pullover

• 4 casual shirts

• 2 pairs shorts {warm destinations}

• 2 button-down short-sleeve shirts

• 1 sports jacket

• Swimsuit {if appropriate for destination}

• 2-3 pairs of sneakers/sandals

• Socks/underwear + extras {dependent on length of trip}

Essentials/Toiletries

• Insect repellent

• Sunscreen/lip balm

• Sunglasses

• Sun hat/baseball cap

• Band-Aids

• Tampons/pads

• Tote bag

• Electrical converter/adapter

• Makeup remover/face cleanser/soap

• Cotton balls/swabs

• Hair gel/spray

• Nail file/clippers

• Shaving cream

• Razors

• Contact lenses, re-wetting solution, & storage case

• Hair accessories

Optional 

• Shampoo/conditioner

• Body lotion

• Hair dryer

Tropical Add-ons

• Aloe vera/after-sun cream

• Beach bag

• Sun hat

• Flip-flops

• Water shoes

Cold Add-ons

• Waterproof ski pants & jacket/snowsuit

• Heavy sweaters

• Underlayers

• Gloves/mittens

• Warm hat/headband

• Scarf

• Goggles

• Skis, poles, ski boots

• Waterproof socks

• Hand & foot warmers

• Waterproof boots

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations

1. California

2. Fiji

3. Paris

4. Walt Disney World

5. Bali

6. Italy

7. Japan

8. Bora Bora

9. Greece

10. Hawaii

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Flat Lay Build, Workshop, & Styled Shoot Deal | August 21-22, 2019 | Arden Photography

The flat lay build/workshop and styled shoot sessions can be purchased individually, or you can get 10% off of your purchase if you book both days collectively! On August 21st you will create your very own styling mat and backdrop that will be custom painted by YOU! We will work on canvases in the a.m., and then during lunch we will chat about photography and its creative processes. After lunch, we will design flat lays to photograph, as well as discussing appropriate compositional choices and lighting of flat lays and still-lifes. I will also be giving you a list of my go-to details to photograph during weddings!

The following day, August 22nd, you will shoot alongside myself and CeCe Todd, owner of CeCe Designs, on a styled shoot to make an impressive presence in your portfolio! This opportunity includes photographing a reception tablescape, wedding setup, and our very own ceremony with a model bride. Also, bring five of your favorite images for an art critique during lunch so that we can learn about our individual styles as well as evolving into better artists. CeCe will also be guests speaking during lunch.

Styled Shoot | August 22, 2019 | Arden Photography

Join me and CeCe Todd, owner of CeCe Designs, on August 22nd for a styled shoot to make an impressive presence in your portfolio! This opportunity includes photographing a reception tablescape, wedding setup, and our very own ceremony with a model bride. Also, bring five of your favorite images for an art critique during lunch so that we can learn about our individual styles as well as evolving into better artists. CeCe will also be guests speaking during lunch. This session can be purchased individually, or you can get 10% off of your purchase if you book both the Workshop and Styled Shoot.

Flat Lay Build & Workshop | August 21, 2019 | Arden Photography

Join me on August 21st to create your very own styling mat and backdrop that will be custom painted by YOU! We will work on canvases in the a.m., and then during lunch we will chat about photography and its creative processes. After lunch, we will design flat lays to photograph, as well as discussing appropriate compositional choices and lighting of flat lays and still-lifes. I will also be giving you a list of my go-to details to photograph during weddings! This session can be purchased individually, or you can get 10% off of your purchase if you book both the Workshop and Styled Shoot.

What to Consider for Your Wedding Day: Special Picture Requests | Arden Photography

More often than not, couples depend on their photographer’s expertise when picture time comes around on their wedding day. Poses, who’s photographed with who, location, and time of day are a few of the many things photographers take into consideration when directing their photographs to make sure that the day goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

But what happens when you trust your photographer’s routine, yet you want to make sure they capture a specific moment during your special day? You ask, of course. Special picture requests are not uncommon, and they are also a way to give your wedding memories a unique and personable vibe.

Now you’re probably wondering, “What could be considered a special picture request?”

Well, as mentioned earlier, most photographers have a routine or timeline they follow for weddings. Getting ready photos; pre-ceremony photos that include the first look (if you’re into that), bridal party, groom’s party, and immediate family pictures; ceremony photos; post-ceremony photos if you didn’t do a first look (or just want more couple portraits) that can also include friend and family group shots; and, lastly, reception photos.

Photographers usually do the basics of formal posing of the bride and groom while incorporating family and friends to record who was a part of the celebration, as well as detail shots of the floral arrangements, invitations, food, jewelry… you know, the works.

If you have something in mind that doesn’t fall into the realm of the aforementioned categories, that's when you request for a special picture.

Examples of special picture requests are listed below to give you an idea of what might take your wedding photographs to the next level; and as said earlier, if it’s not mentioned… just ask. We want to make your day as special as you have always dreamed it to be.

• A location that the photographer and you didn’t previously discuss

• Personal trinkets

• Family Memories, photos of grandparents

• Specific poses

  • Silly, high-fashion, meaningful, etc.

• Specific people

  • Those that might fall outside of immediate/close family and the bridal/groom’s party

• A specific act

  • Usually asked when the act is outside of “normal” wedding routine

• A specific setting

  • Sunsets, fireworks, snow, etc.

What to Consider for Your Wedding Day: Weather | Arden Photography

We all know weather in Alabama is bipolar to the nth degree. So, here is a list of considerations you should make for your special day, whether in Bama or not, to make sure it remains special and stress-free.

• Temperature

  • Hot, cold, in between, make sure you know the general whereabouts of where the temperature is going to be on your special day so that you can plan accordingly on beauty and attire.

  • Small, portable fans are a mindful consideration just in case you're stuck outside taking pictures in the heat.

  • Blankets and shawls on hand are also something to consider to walk around with during the cooler degrees.

• Rain/Snow… any type of precipitation

  • Have a backup plan for possible rainouts. Most weddings are not events to postpone, so if having a tent readily available is an option, make sure you have them on speed-dial.

• Hydration

  • It is SO important to stay hydrated during your wedding day. Regardless if it’s hot or cold outside, water will keep any medical issues from occurring and it will keep you feeling fresh all day.

• H&MU

  • Hair and makeup can be a huge issue if there is imminent weather on the way. Make sure your styles are weather-appropriate, and even have a possible backup. There are many products that are on the market to keep you looking and feeling your best, just ask your stylist what they recommend.

  • Argan and morroccan oil can prevent and reduce frizz.

  • Setting spray and waterproof makeup can keep your face in place all day.

• Attire

  • Make sure your attire is temperature-appropriate for the time of year your wedding is scheduled for. There is nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable for a day that you are supposed to remember fondly.

  • If you want a short-sleeve dress during cooler weather, maybe opt for a fur shawl to place over yourself during downtime. Plus, they make for beautiful, classy pictures.

• Guests

  • If you know there is a significant weather change on your wedding day, make sure to let your guests know so they know how to dress accordingly and schedule how they will arrive easier. They’ll surely be thanking you for your consideration.

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Photo by: Arden Photography

Met Gala 2019 Recap | Best Dressed | Arden Photography

This year’s Met Gala “Camp: Notes on Fashion” was co-hosted by Lady Gaga, Harry Styles, Serena Williams, and Gucci’s Alessandro Michele. If you’re unfamiliar with the term ‘camp’ it is defined as “an aesthetic style and sensibility that regards something as appealing because of its bad taste and ironic value.” This means more was more, and the eclectic style choices our favorite celebs made gave us mixed emotions of awe, wonder, and down-right shock. From Disney-inspired chic to the guests doing their own rendition of their celebrity aspirations to Las Vegas showgirl to the nth degree, I was not disappointed with the “lewks” that graced the 2019 Met Gala’s highly-esteemed red-carpet staircase. In no apparent order, here’s a few of my by-far faves that showed up and showed out at Monday’s event.

Lily Collins in Giambattista Valli Haute Couture (inspired by Priscilla Presley)

Candace Swanepoel in Atelier Prabal Gurung

Kendall Jenner in Versace

Ciara in Peter Dundas (inspired by Diana Ross)

Emily Ratajkowski in Peter Dundas (inspired by Cher)

Céline Dion in Oscar de la Renta and Fred Leighton jewelry

Madelaine Petsch in Jean Paul Gaultier

Florence Welch in Gucci

Bella Hadid in Moschino

Kacey Musgraves in Moschino (inspired by Barbie)

Gemma Chan in Tom Ford wearing Forevermark jewelry

Saoirse Ronan in Gucci

2019 Oscars Best Dressed | Arden Photography

The anticipation that builds for the Oscars isn’t only to see which of your favorite actors is going to win an award of a lifetime, it’s a cat walk of the simple, avant-garde, and down-right out of the ordinary. This years annual event showcased sleekly-designed gowns, spring-time colors galore, and metallics that would make any disco ball jealous. We also had our occasional androgynous ‘fit that fully exemplified that any one can pull off any style as long as you have the confidence to wear it. Here’s a few of my favorite picks from last weekend’s Oscars. Maybe it’ll give you the unknown inspiration you’ve been longing for.

Regina King in Oscar de la Renta

Ashley Graham in Zac Posen

Kiki Layne in Versace

Lady Gaga in Alexander McQueen

Amandla Stenberg in Miu Miu

Brie Larson in Celine

Elsie Fisher in Thom Browne

Laura Herrier in Louis Vuitton

Jennifer Lopez in Tom Ford

Charlize Theron in Dior haute couture

Harrison & Matt Rehearsal: Arden Photography

Maggie & Kyle Rehearsal Dinner: Arden Photography

The White Room 2015 Bridal Fashion Show

When you walk in to The White Room, you are overwhelmed with the urge to start planning a wedding wherein you get to don every gorgeous dress they have hanging in the elegant salon. It is such a beautiful studio with the most lavish and dazzling gowns a bride could dream of; not to mention the outstanding women who are devoted to every bride that sashays through their door.

The White Room Bridal Salon is hosting a Bridal Fashion Show on January 23, 2015. Doors open at 6:15pm, and you do not want to miss this. The newest 2015 collections from some of the most prestigious designers on the market will be headlining this event. Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door. To purchase online please visit: thewhiteroombridalshow2015.eventbrite.com

2014 Maestro's Ball: Arden Photography

Alabama Symphony Orchestra held its annual Maestro's Ball. The gala fundraising event is ASO's largest, and the proceeds benefit the programs they offer for education, creation, and outreach. Accompanying the event is music performed by the Alabama Symphony Youth Orchestra, and then a concert led by Conductor Christopher Confessore, followed by an elegant dinner and champagne. 

Hope Gala: Arden Photography

The American Cancer Society of Birmingham hosted its 34th annual Hope Gala. It is an event that aids in fundraising for local cancer centers and also honors a Birmingham family that has been affected by cancer. This year's event celebrated the life of local artist, Toni Tully. Her family donated three original works of art to the auction that was held to raise funds. Many other local vendors and artists also supported the event by donating items of their own. Dinner, hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and dancing accompanied the evening. There was much hope to be had at The Hope Gala.