Shooting a Wedding You’re In: Behind the Scenes

As you may already know, I had the privilege of shooting my sister-in-law’s wedding, while acting as her Matron of Honor! You may be wondering how we made that work, and it was definitely a creative labor of love! A huge thanks to Riane and Monique of Monique Hessler Weddings for not only capturing timeless, meaningful images, but being flexible and letting me step in throughout the day! It was so special to me to be able to share this day with family in the most unique way, so without further adieu, here’s how we pulled it off!

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First, I captured Janessa and Stu’s personal details, most of which I helped her pick out! It was so fun to see it all come together in the most beautiful way!

I got to snag a shot of my nephew and ring bearer, Lennon! The bow tie kills me.

I ran upstairs and got ready with all the girls as we got so excited for the day ahead. Then I pinned on boutonnieres with the help of a couple bridesmaids, and we headed outside where I shot groomsmen group and individual photos.

This included my handsome husband and brother-in-law!

I then jumped into my dress and we put Janessa in hers, through lots of tears of course. Riane captured these beautiful moments for us.  It was getting real!

My mother-in-law and I helped her put on her veil and I touched her up to prepare her to see Stu for the first time.

Riane and I both shot their first look from two different vantage points, and it was the most special moment of the day for me. Another bridesmaid, Laura, also shot it on video which was so sweet! They read their vows and said a prayer together…

While a few bridesmaids and her mom snuck a peek and cried of course.

Then Riane shot us girls together and we had way too much fun!

I organized the huge bridal party because I knew everyone’s names which made the process so fast! Then Riane captured pure gold!

One of my all-time favorites was this shot she got of Janessa and my niece, Rylinn. There are no words!

I then ran around like mad to grab our ginormous family for Riane to capture. How sweet is this photo of Nessa, her dad, and her older brothers? Love.

Then, Riane captured the entire ceremony solo!

“Don’t cry Don’t cry Don’t cry…”

Followed by the signing of the marriage license. #canIgetawitness

Then we both captured their husband and wife portraits in the most beautiful light! I couldn’t even handle how gorgeous it was.

I’m so thankful for Riane letting me jump in so I could capture shots like this. MY HEART.

Afterwards, I bustled her dress and we lined up for the grand entrance. At this point, I was done shooting and ready to enjoy the evening with everyone (and put my pregnant feet up)! 24 Karat Magic in the Aiirrrrrr

After dinner I gave my speech through tears, and I’m actually pretty proud of myself for not letting my emotions get the best of me. I got through it with only a couple shaky cries. Success!

I even shared my first ever photoshoot on a professional camera: Janessa’s high school senior pictures! She was a little embarrassed 🙂 “Ness, I’ve literally watched you grow up behind my lens, and it’s been one of the biggest blessings in my life.”

Then we danced the night away while Riane snapped the most memorable, hilarious images. We even managed to get the whole group! See if you can spot me and Jerrin!

So that’s how it was done everyone! It was a crazy, unforgettable, beautiful day, and I can’t believe how fast it flew by. I can’t wait to capture more incredible moments for these two in the future. I love you guys so much!!

Be sure to check out their blog post of their full wedding day here!