The Salty Blog

When I first met with Sandy and Brendan over Zoom, they declared themselves as “criers” and promised a wedding full of emotion...they did not let me down. Buckets of tears and boatloads of laughter. This couple knows how to throwdown a great celebration, no matter the circumstance. My heart goes out to all couples contending with all of the changes in plans and postponements as we navigate this public health crisis. Sandy and Brenden pivoted from a 200+ guest list Texas barn blowout to a family-only gathering of 21 on Cape Cod and I was honored that they chose Salty Broad Studios, to document to such a personal occasion with a tight knit group. Congratulations, Sandy and Brenden. Thank you for letting me share your wedding day story!

Savvy brides or grooms want to know that their vendors are prepared for anything. You that you definitely don’t have anything worry with Salty Broad Studios. I have over a decade of newspaper experience so I have learned to be ready for the unexpected.

When I roll up to a wedding venue, I have my ThinkTank Roller Derby bag in tow and usually someone asks whether or not I’m moving in since it looks like a suitcase. So here’s what’s inside–my collection of essentials: Two Nikon DSLRs, a D850 and a D810. Four strobe units and wireless transmitters for creative lighting during your portraits and fun party photos. I have several Nikkor lens and for those who want the nitty gritty details, here’s the focal lengths: 17-35mm, 50mm, 60mm, 24-70mm, 85mm, 70-200mm and one Sigma lens 35mm f/1.4. This picture does not include my memory cards, batteries, charges and additional light kits and modifiers. I have a lot of stuff.

But wait...there’s more! Not only do I have tons of camera gear but I also come prepared with my own “Wedding Day Emergency Kit.”

Yes, just call me Auntie Salty because I will have all these goodies at your disposal. In my handy dandy emergency kit you will find: a sewing kit, scissors or a pocket knife, bandaids, a Tide pen (more for me than you but your never know), Ibuprofen, Still Standing foot spray to help ease the pain from a day in heels (yes, it really works), a lint roller, safety pins, bobby pins, fashion tape and deodorant. 

As we come to terms with the reality that the COVID-19 pandemic will be canceling all large group gatherings for the majority of 2020, I’d like to try and provide some helpful suggestions to couples who will need to postpone the big celebration but would still like to tie the knot privately on the original date that they intended on getting married.

Here’s some sage advice, it’s always a good idea to ask for permission but as long as you are in a public place, don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be. Just book an officiant (and maybe a photographer) and go get married. It will probably take 5 minutes total. Carpe Diem!

1. Blish Point - Barnstable Harbor - This breathtaking nook is truly a special place and typically only know by locals. Technically, it’s just a boat ramp but as you venture down the wooden stairs you’ll be delighted by the striking view of Sandy Neck in the distance and the phragmites swaying against the soft sand dunes in the breeze. Stay at the Lamb & Lion Inn, they’re offering special elopement packages.

2. Cape Cod Lavender Farm - Harwich - Locally owned and operated, this quaint farm is New England at it’s finest. Schedule your private photo session for a small fee but make sure it’s in late June/early July so you can catch the lavender in its peak.

3. Grays Beach - Yarmouth Port - A favorite landmark for visitors and locals alike. The boardwalk can be your own private aisle then exchange vows in front of the expansive Salt Marsh with Chapin’s Beach in the distance

4. Kelley Chapel - Historical Society of Old Yarmouth - Formal weddings with up to 60 guests can be held here but why not exchange vows right out front. What a perfect backdrop?

5. Crowes Pasture Conservation Area in Dennis - Accessing this area might be a little tricky if you don’t have an ORV permit but if you are willing to walk a little, the stunning flats at low tide are worth it. You can bring your pup to this dog-friendly spot too.

6. The Knob, Woods Hole - The Cornelia Carey Sanctuary in Quissett Harbor is a popular engagement session spot also but it also makes for a great wedding venue too. I happened upon this couple’s impromptu ceremony on a walk one afternoon and just had to take a picture myself.

7. Cranberry Bog - There’s quite a few to choose from on the Cape and many have accessible walking trails. PJs Cranberries in Sandwich formally hosts tented weddings. Take a hike along the Pamet Cranberry Bog Trail in Truro, enjoy the view from Bearberry Hill summit and check out the remnants of a former bog house. 

8. Red Maple Swamp Trail - Cape Cod National Seashore, Eastham - This is probably the prettiest swamp you’ll ever meet. Explore the winding and recently renovated boardwalk in this enchanted forest of beech trees and pitch pines. You’ll find a “scenic point” that would make a lovely spot to say “I do.” Hemenway Landing is a beautiful spot too and it’s right around the corner!

9. Scorton Creek - East Sandwich - Take in the peaceful marsh views and the unique shapes that form at low tide. If you explore the Marshside Trail you’ll find a lovely bridge with a stunning view. There’s also a “Nature’s Classroom” with benches overlooking a peaceful scene–perfect for an intimate wedding. Want something different? Get married on a kayak excursion. If it’s just the two of you, you might as well do something special.

10. Craigville Retreat Center - Eggers Chapel in the Pines - Nestled in the woods behind the Tabernacle Church, this humble cross and rows of benches is quaint and idyllic. Imagine how lovely this will be when summer sets in and the birds are chirping!

By Christine Hochkeppel

Since I happen to be situated near one of the most well-beloved LGBTQ destinations–Provincetown–I thought it would be fun to compile a list of the most queer-friendly cities and towns for an engagement session. 

Provincetown, MA - This place truly does have a little bit of everything! Beautiful sand dunes, ocean views, sunsets and quirky, upbeat nightlife. Every where you turn there’s pride and good cheer! Want to make your session super queer? Come up for the annual Carnival parade–the third Thursday is August. This year’s theme is “The Holidays” and last year’s was “Enchanted Forest.”

South End, Boston - Home to Boston’s original gay clubs and bars, Club Cafe and the Boston Eagle, this neighborhood has so much history. Gentrification has drastically changed the face of this once gay ghetto but the city has led the nation in bringing the gay rights movement forward. It was the first state to legalize gay marriage in 2004. 

Dupont Circle, Washington D.C. - Complete with beautiful historic museums, row houses and a stunning marble fountain, this little corner of the District has long been known as a haven for queer folks. Since 1986, it’s hosted the “High Heel Race”–a drag queen sprint down 17th Street NW. Thank you to Aimee Custis for sharing this photo!

Gayborhood, Philadelphia - This place is so gay-friendly that in 2007 the city of Philadelphia officially recognized the Gayborhood area by adding 36 gay pride rainbow flag symbols to street signs. Situated in the Washington West neighborhood of Philly this is a great choice for a sophisticated, urban look.

Ogunquit, Maine - Yet another queer enclave in the Northeast. Ogunquit is a great option if you’re a couple who loves the outdoors paired with quaint, nautical New England vibes. Thank you, Jackie Riccardi for contributing the photo!

Greenwich Village, Manhatthan - So much queer love here! Tons of great landmarks to work with plus the stunning New York City skyline. For a classic backdrop, visit the Washington Square Arc and Fountain then hit up some of the iconic gay bars like Stonewall and Cubby Hole, and, of course, Gay Street!

Portsmouth, NH - This Historic seaport on the Piscataqua River may appear to be a just another sleepy New England town but there’s plenty of nightlife and gay-owned businesses to support.

Castro St, San Francisco - The home to the late, great gay rights activist Harvey Milk and the site of many demonstrations that advanced the movement. You can have fun with the rainbow painted crosswalks! Thanks Zoe Larkin for contributing this photo!

Rehoboth Beach - One of the mid-Atlantic’s most popular tourist destinations for LGBTQ people! Take a stroll on Queen Street and be sure to get a shot in front of Dolle’s Saltwater Taffy on the boardwalk!

Northampton, MA - This Pioneer Valley town nestled in Western Massachusetts has hosted an annual LGBTQ Pride Parade since 1981! It’s a hub for academics and creatives alike. Lots of unique LGBT-owned businesses to support on Main Street.

By Christine Hochkeppel owner of Salty Broad Studios

I think we can all agree that the gay rights movement has made some great strides in the last decade but, we still have a long way to go. We still hear true stories of groom-groom couples being turned away from cake makers and homophobic venues rejecting a gay couple’s wedding celebration. Hell, I even had a bride/bride couple work with me after the first wedding photographer they inquired with said “after praying on it,” she decided she could not work with them. It’s a hard pill to swallow but there is something you can do to fight back! When planning your wedding, seek out vendors who are part of our queer-lovin’ community! Here’s a couple a great reasons why you should go-gay when hiring your wedding day team.

1. Comfort - No awkwardness about misused pronouns or ignorant mistakes (my first hand experience - a florist labeled a bride’s boutonniere “for the groom”)

2. Sensitivity - Every family has drama but families’ with queer kids tend to have a little more (major understatement). I make sure I get to know my couples and their family dynamics before the big day to avoid any painful mentions or triggers.

3. Camaraderie - I’m out and proud and I LOVE celebrating that pride. Simply put, it’s FUN working with gay folks and you can really feel that bond when you work with LGBTQ+ run businesses.

4. Laughter - Let’s face it, you can laugh with LGBTQ+ peeps about things that straight people just don’t identify with and you know giggles make everything better.

5. Advocacy - Supporting LGBTQ+-owned businesses means that you are putting your money where your heart is and you are helping these businesses earn more success and credibility to attract more LGBTQ+ couples for the future.

Here’s a few firsthand accounts from real same-sex couples who hired Salty Broad Studios for their big gay weddings…

"Working with Christine was a ton of FUN. She was funny, up-beat, and had us laughing when we could have been stressed.  It was meaningful to have a LGBTQ wedding photographer to help us document this important moment in our lives.  Wedding photographers capture very intimate moments, which, for gay and lesbian couples, can feel uncomfortable to share.  It was reassuring to know that Christine understood and appreciated this.  We'd recommend that any LGBTQ couple seeking a wedding photographer consider hiring someone who is also LGBTQ for these reasons, and to support LGBTQ-owned businesses.” -Janie & Cristina

“As a lesbian couple, we are so thrilled that we had the opportunity to choose a gay photographer to shoot our wedding. For one thing, it is important to us to be selective about our vendors and support local LGBTQ+ businesses when we can. Second of all, we were so instantly comfortable in front of the camera knowing that a fellow LGBTQ+ identifying person was behind the lens. We had full faith that there was no judgment coming from our photographer, and we knew that she would be able to capture our love as something beautiful - and she did!” -Maggie & Kelli

So, I get this question a lot and I have to start with the annoying vague answer...it depends. Wardrobe choices for your engagement session will greatly fluctuate based on the season, your body type and, of course, your personality!

I prefer a more casual look because there are plenty of formal wedding day opportunities so dress like you are going out for a regular date night but step it up just a touch. Color coordinate without matching. This is important. I have included some of my favorite palettes for you to get inspired by but, truly, this should be whatever feels right to you.

Ladies, if it’s spring or summer, it’s always nice to see a lovely, flowy dress but, please, avoid busy prints, stick to the solids, except for polka dots–that’s my one exception. If you must wear a pattern, then please have your partner were a solid. I also think going simple: jeans and a nice top can be lovely as well. For shoes, dress for the terrain, if we’re going on a hike, obviously, don’t wear heels or something you are worried about ruining. Don’t hesitate to bring options, maybe a walking shoe for the duration of the shoot and a sexy pair of pumps or boots for just before or at the end.

For the guys, I think a nice fitting pair of jeans, nothing too worn out or dated, with some brown leather shoes (stay away from the sneakers and flip flops) and a button-down shirt, maybe a sweater on top? Layers are nice because we can add or subtract for different looks. Solids are preferred but if it’s a nice gingham or plaid that color-coordinates with your partner’s look, go for it!

Blazers are great for both men and women but just don’t be twins. Accessories are awesome! Bring a hat to add some variety or if it’s weather appropriate, how about a scarf?

My friend and former colleague Candace Hammond is a fashion columnist and social media manager for several clothing stores, Here’s her Top 10 Tips:

Compliment each other but don’t match. You don’t want to look like a Gap ad from the ‘90s.

Make sure you feel good in what you’re wearing. If you’re not comfortable it will show on your face. Choose something that makes you feel amazing.

Wear clothes that fit well - nothing too tight or baggy. You want something that is flattering and comfortable. Being able to breathe and move is important!

Be yourself. If you’re someone who always wears vintage, then wear that. But don’t be costumey or choose something trendy that’s not you.

Think in terms of - ‘Will I feel good about this outfit 10, 20, 30 years from now’ or will it be...‘What was I thinking?’

When choosing your outfit, consider where your photo shoot will take place. What might work at the beach won’t be as fitting for an urban shoot.

Bring a couple of options. Having choices is always a good idea, but don’t bring your whole wardrobe!

Accessories - A fall shoot with a beautiful scarf can look warm and cozy and add some texture. If you’re known for your cool hats, take some shots with one or two! If you have something that means a lot to you - a necktie that was your dad’s, a pin from your grandmother, wear it! It will add very personal details to your photos.

A few hard no’s - No fleece, no plain t-shirts or sweatshirts, it’s an important event, not a keg party. These are photos your grandchildren will look at someday. Look like you put in some effort and cared!

By Nicole Perullo, licensed esthetician and founder of Nolia Mabel

Congratulations on your engagement! 

In all the happy chaos of planning it’s easy to overlook one of the most important parts of your big day, making sure your skin is in tip top shape. If you’ve ever wanted to know the best way to get your skin prepped and glowing before you say “I do” then read on for my suggested timeline for your Wedding skin care routine. 

12-9 month before your wedding 

Interview estheticians who will guide you through this exciting time before your wedding. Meet at least 3 different professionals and go prepared with goals and questions. You want to make sure that you find someone who, not only has the expertise, but also a good personality.You should feel confident that they will listen to your needs. For example, if using natural products is important to you, ask your esthetician what skin care lines they use. If you are struggling with acne, ask your esthetician if this is something they specialize in. We all have our areas of expertise and it’s important to find someone who can help you make the improvements you’re looking for. 

Develop a game plan for monthly/bimonthly spa treatments that will be performed in the Spa. For most brides and grooms, I recommend a basic facial treatment within a few weeks of our consultation, so I can get to know their skin ASAP! Then I give them some options for facials leading up to the wedding. 

Establish a regular skin care routine, if you have not already. On a daily basis, in the morning and evening you should be cleansing, using a toner, and moisturizing. This will ensure that your skin stays clean and balanced all the time. You also need to start a weekly routine that will include exfoliation and a treatment mask. Exfoliation is the often overlooked key to achieving authentic results with your products

8-6 Months before your wedding

Begin more intensive skincare treatments. Hydrodermabrasion is a treatment I specialize in at my skin spa that provides deep exfoliation and intense hydration, and this is the time I generally begin a scheduled series of treatments. Unless you are already working with a professional esthetician, DO NOT get a facial or any kind of skin care treatment less than 2 months prior to your wedding. The month before your wedding is NOT the time to try a peel for the first time, reactions can happen and you may not have time to allow your skin to recover before your big day. 

The month before your wedding

This is a great time to check in with your esthetician!He or she will be able to help you with any last minute unwanted skin conditions and perform your final facial treatment.  At this stage, you and your makeup artist should discuss your game plan for the morning of your wedding. Some will want you to perform your regular skin care routine and others may want you to just wash your face and then let their team do the rest.

I always suggested to my brides and grooms, that they lay low on the alcohol and sugar, drink plenty of water, and get as much sleep as possible. Stress can do a lot of bad things to your skin. Sign up for a yoga or meditation class in the last few weeks before you walk down the aisle. 

The morning of the wedding

By Lisa George

Don’t  be swayed by current make-up trends when it comes to choosing your wedding day look. Going with what you are  comfortable with is key! Many looks you see trending in magazines are not appropriate, particularly in a white dress, on a summer afternoon. 

My job as a make-up artist, is to enhance your features and bring you into symmetry for photography.

This does not always translate into heavy make-up. The camera does not erase what it sees! Symmetry is balancing the face. Perhaps one eyelid is larger than the other or a nose needs to have the bridge highlighted in an area that is flat. It might be appropriate to straighten a chin or decrease it's length.  All of this is done with highlighting and shading that even the eye does not detect as corrected. However, these subtle changes are beautiful in person as well. This is how I achieve the right look for you.

By Sarah Mason, owner of Cape Cod Nail Co.

Photographer, CHECK! Flowers, dress, cake, CHECK! Hair & Makeup, CHECK & CHECK! …But what about your wedding day mani?! With so many details to plan and coordinate, nails for the big day can easily get overlooked. Your hands however, can show up in a lot of detail shots. We’re here to give you a few tips to get your nails wedding day ready and how to narrow down your color choices.

Keep it simple!

If you struggle with your natural nails, there’s no need to go crazy and invest in a full set of artificial nails just for your wedding…especially if you’re not used to wearing them. Bi-weekly manicures will do wonders leading up to your wedding day. We recommend starting a regimen at least three months out. Regular maintenance will help curb stress biting and picking, heal and condition unsightly cuticles, and promote healthy nail growth. If getting to the salon isn’t practical, you can absolutely DIY at home! Here’s a few tips to follow for wedding ready nails:

Use a nail strengthener! (We love Duri Rejuvacote.)  Biotin is also great for supporting healthy hair, skin, nails, as is drinking plenty of water.

Cuticle oil is a must! Dadi Oil is a great option. Use it generously! Keep a bottle in your purse. If you pick your nails or cuticles, slather on some oil every time you start to pick. If you have cracked or open skin around your nails, Neosporin also works great to moisturize and heal.

Keep your nails on the shorter side. Letting your nails grow too long will increase the chances of a break. File your natural nails with a fine grit file, keeping them nice and even.

Don’t cut your cuticles! Gently push them back but don’t go to town with the nippers. Leave that part for the professionals! Cutting cuticles can cause peeling, painful and sensitive skin, and even infection.

Avoid using your nails as tools and wear gloves when doing the dishes.

Now the fun part: Let’s pick a COLOR!

Believe it or not, brides are moving away from the traditional French manicure. We’re seeing more reds, blues, and even dark purples and bright pinks on our brides. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your nails! Your pedicure is the perfect way to add in a last minute “something blue.” Even shorter nails look great with a darker or bright color. Let your personality shine through!

When picking a color, consider your accent colors and colors from your bouquet. Pick a seasonal color or play on your wedding theme. If your wedding is super glam, black tie, elegant…maybe a metallic will polish your look! If you’re more boho or natural, a taupe or earth tone would be a great choice! And of course, if a neutral is your comfort zone, have at it! There’s nothing more timeless than a clean classic manicure. Here’s a few tips to picking a color shade that’s right for you:

Choose two shades lighter or darker than your skin tone to add contrast. Avoid choosing a color too close to your skin tone.

If neutral is your wedding day go to, avoid wearing bright or dark colors leading up to your wedding day. They can stain and be difficult to remove.

Your nails don’t have to match your accent or bouquet, they should however compliment the colors to not complete the look.

Book your nail appointment three months out and no more than two days before your wedding day. Have your favorite clear coat on hand. Use a coat of clear at the first signs of wear to save and extend the life of your main through your honeymoon.

By Hillary Peavey, Hill the Hair Painter

The #1 thing is to make sure your hair is “clean” of buildup and chemicals. Talk to your stylist about what you can do to make your hair feel as clean as possible! Water and pipe chemicals can cause damage to your hair and well water can leave a greenish hue that will show in photos. I recommend looking into either Malibu treatments or Color Wow Dream Filter spray. Also, look into a shower head filter. You can get a Britta shower head on Amazon or your local hardware store.

While you certainly want your water to be clean, don’t overdo it with the shampoo! You don’t need to wash your hair everyday! Every other day is perfectly fine and this will preserve some of the natural oils in your hair so it will style better. For blondes, consider using a purple shampoo or conditioner to keep out brassy/yellow tones! It will also help keep your blonde bright for the big day! Just don’t over do it. Even once a week or as needed is perfect!

Keep your hair free from frizz and broken ends! Length is great but remember to keep your hair looking its best. You can always get clip in extensions. If you have the extra money in your budget, bond extensions are a GREAT option! Unlike tape or sown in extensions, bonds are small and easy to hide with most wedding styles!

When picking a style for your wedding day, remember you are going to have these memories and pictures for life! Don’t get too caught up in what friends, family & trends are suggesting. You want to feel comfortable and confident! 

So, you’re not feeling excited about your upcoming engagement session? In fact, you’re kind of dreading it? Well, you’re not alone. Many couples tell me they are overwhelmed with the idea of finding the right outfit and location, not to mention, thinking of poses that don’t feel cheesy and awkward. Do not let this stop you from booking an engagement session!!! This is supposed to be FUN. It’s also a great way to evaluate whether the photographer you chose is right for your big celebration. This is someone you are going to spend 8 to 10 hours with on your wedding day. You want to make sure you are comfortable with this person and that their style is a good match for you.

1. Location, Location, Location 🌎– The best engagement session locations are in places that have a special meaning to the couple, that being said, that special place isn’t always available or practical. Maybe you are stuck and need a little help? I have a lot of favorite places I suggest to couples but it’s helpful to know what kind of place is relevant to you. What environment tells your story? Sunset at that beach? A hike in the woods? A stroll through the city? Maybe you’d rather document an experience? Let’s go apple picking together or share an ice cream sundae at an old-fashioned parlor. I am an expert at discovering visual opportunities. After our introductory conversation, I’ll have lots of ideas for you! 

2. Get a manicure 💅 and a haircut 💈– You probably have some bling, right? Since your hands will be showcasing the symbol of your engagement, you should give your hands and nails some attention. Even if you’re not into gels or polish, simply moisturizing and shaping your nails will take those detail shots of the next level. Hair styling is super important too. Ladies, consider scheduling a blowout before your session and, gentlemen, get your ears lowered a couple days before your session, not the day of...

3. Clean your ring 💍– Stop at any jewelry store a day or two in advance of your engagement session and have your ring polished. It’s free and will add a little extra shimmer to your session.

4. Go shopping! 🛍️ – Don’t wait until the last minute and throw something together. Make this an intentional, well-curated experience. Go shopping together and pick out outfits that color coordinate without matching. Solids work best but if one lovebird wears a print that compliments their sweetheart’s solid, then go for it! Shoes are important (unless we are going barefoot on the beach). Every component of your ensemble should be planned out. Look at style guides for inspiration. 

5. Trust your photographer – You don’t need to practice poses or know what to do with your hands. Your photographer should be an expert in this and will help coach you with positioning. The most important thing for you two to do is to arrive relaxed and to keep an open mind throughout your session. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your location so you are not stressed out when you arrive. Let your photographer guide you. Even if something feels a little silly, just go with it. Often times, the goofy laughs make the best pictures. 

As a wedding industry professional (and also a newlywed), I’m active in a lot of social media groups and networks. I am constantly asking recently married folks about their wedding day experience. I have compiled this list to help engaged couples prepare for their big day. Getting the best results from your vendors often means that you need to be participating in the discussion. Here’s some common threads I have found in my research...

1. BUILD A BUFFER - If you don’t build a realistic timeline for your wedding day, your group photo session will likely be the chunk of time that will take the hit. Make sure you build enough padding into your timeline for travel and even for unexpected changes. Hair and makeup appointments notoriously go overtime. That doesn’t always mean the stylist or technician is at fault, a bridesmaid could arrive late or you could blow a fuse while you’re getting blown out. There are so many moving parts to this day–expect everything to take more time than you think. Make sure you have checked and re-checked your timeline with your wedding party and vendors. Your photographer should be happy and willing to help you with this.

2. WIND - Couples often worry about rain on their wedding day but I will tell you the biggest threat to your outdoor portrait session is not drizzle, it’s wind! Showers pass but if you have a blustery day, all of the updos your hair stylist worked so hard to perfect turn into wind blown messes. What’s the solution? Have a backup plan. Come up with indoor alternatives and make sure your photographer has a light kit.

3. HARSH LIGHT - Your wedding day festivities will likely span 8 to 10 hours from start to finish. Ceremonies usually begin anytime between 2pm and 5pm. If your ceremony is on the later side and you are planning to do your photos afterward, you will have the best light of day. On the other hand, cloudless, bright mid-day sunshine is the absolute worst. Don’t worry! There are plenty of workarounds like taking group photos in the shade so no one is squinting (or sweating profusely). If you’re passionate about getting the best quality pictures, plan ahead and schedule your photo session for later in the day. 

4. DON’T CUT CORNERS - Many couples consider reducing the number of hours the photographer will be on site in an attempt to save money. Please DO NOT do this. Cramming all of your important wedding traditions into a shortened timeline will not get you good results. You’ll be stressed about getting everything done and you won’t be living in the moment. Photography is the one service from your wedding day that will result in a product you can cherish for the rest of your marriage. After the food is savored, the makeup washes off and the decor is put back on the shelf, it’s the photography that remains as your only record of this important occasion. Don’t give in to the temptation to save a couple hundred dollars. Investing in a complete photographic collection of your wedding day is priceless.

When I first started working as a cub-photojournalist, I admit it, I thought being a wedding photographer was the sign that someone who wasn’t really serious about professional storytelling. I was young and and naive and didn’t realize that the newspaper profession, too, has its own trappings and career pitfalls. Once it became clear that I would need to create my own growth opportunity, I started to re-evaluate my perspective.

Weddings have a natural story arc. They are the perfect assignment for story hunters like myself. Photojournalists are passionate about access and discovery. Weddings are a challenging assignment but provide the perfect opportunity for unfettered access to wedding couples and their families. Moment-driven wedding photography requires expert-level organization and superior time management skills to achieve success. I truly enjoy working with the couples who sign on with Salty Broad Studios and by the end of the wedding night I feel like part of the family.

I pour my heart and soul into wedding day coverage. I’ll put it to you this way, in my free time, I enjoy training for long distance cycling events. I usually train for 1 or 2 centuries (riding 100 miles in one day) and I am more sore and body-wrecked after shooting a wedding than after a 100-mile road ride. I’m passionate about getting impactful photos that show emotion. It’s not just a job for me, being a photojournalist is a way of life.

I’m a documentary photographer and a collector of stories. I enjoy observing family traditions and then composing them in my camera frame. It’s also fun to have dinner with friends and talk about the most recent wedding I photographed and what sort of amusing anecdotes have surfaced. So, if you are considered wedding photographers right now, ask yourself if they are truly passionate about they do? Are they passionate about creating pictures? Does their creative practice integrate well into your wedding day vision?

And one final addendum, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that another big part of my “why” is celebrating and supporting marriage equality. I’m marrying my bride in only a few short weeks and I am ecstatic. To be able to share that joy with other couples, gay or straight, means everything to me. It’s a great honor to be certified as a LGBTQ-owned business by the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce but there’s no bigger sense of pride in my heart than when I see a same-sex couple walk down that aisle for the first time as a legally married couple. It’s my great privilege to be among the first to congratulate them. In fact, I’d go ahead and say it’s my favorite part.

By Dani Marrero of DanDee Event Planning

Congrats! You’re engaged and starting this very exciting journey of planning your dream day. You may have all the details planned out in your head but you probably also need someone to help you transition your ideas into real life! Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t know where to start? A wedding planner can help you figure out those first steps. If you are well advanced into your planning, you might just need a coordinator to make sure it all comes together. Whatever the scenario may be, it’s you and your love’s special day and you both deserve everything you can imagine and more.

There are so many reasons a wedding planner can be a valuable asset for your day. We can help you make sure your celebration comes to life in the most perfect way possible but here’s a snazzy list to break it down for you.

10 REASONS YOU NEED A WEDDING PLANNER:

1. ⏰ Saves you time - The average wedding takes 200 hours of planning.

2. 💰 Saves you money - Negotiating discounts.

3. 👍 Acts as your “go-to”- No back and forth with questions from the vendors.

4. 💃 Allows you to have a worry free day - Have fun with your guests!

5. 😎 Handles any crisis behind the scenes - You don’t need that stress!

6. 🎉 Friends & family enjoy the day as guests, not volunteers!

7. 🎪 Recommends vendors you can trust - Eliminating the guesswork

8. 🤑 Helps keep you on a budget - Stay on track!

9. 🙌 Arrives early and stays late - Reliability you can count on.

10. 💫 Works out logistics - Those little details that aren’t your top priority.

Wedding planners can do all the major things and even help you figure out a workable budget. Planners work their connections to get you set up with reliable vendors. They can negotiate costs, do small and big scale details and are there with you every step of the way with advice, tips and guidance as your wedding vision forms. A planner can also offer a different perspective that stretches your imagination and opens your eyes to new ideas and trends.

Planners have experience in the unexpected. Unforeseen changes, or even catastrophes (gasp!), can arise and a planner will handle it. We’re there to take that big burden off of you and stay calm, cool and collected while addressing the issue. We know what to expect and what to do in the event that something off-track happens.

You’re getting married. You’re excited. Your friends are excited. You want the world to know that you found the one. I get it. If you can’t contain your elation and you’re the kind of person that’s going to take a selfie at the altar, then I don’t think this post with resonate with you.

On the other hand, if you don’t feel that burning desire to alert the Twitterverse and the Facebookland the very second you have legalized your nuptials, then consider the unplugged alternative. There are many reasons to have an unplugged ceremony—top of list list seems to be encouraging your guests to be present and distraction-free while you and your partner formalize your commitment to each other. From my perspective as a photographer, if you invested in hiring a professional, you want to set them up for success. The pictures should show the smiling faces of your guests—not outstretched arms with that little glowing rectangle blocking their expression. Who knows, unplugging may even spark conversation and new friendships between your guests!

But it’s not just cell phones that impose distractions. An uncle with a new fangled camera gadget or your friend who’s trying to develop his portfolio likely will not have the skillset to get the shots without interfering with your chosen photographer. Avoid any awkwardness by letting those folks know that the pictures are being handle by a pro.

Stephanie Diaz Eldredge wedding planner with Cape Cod Celebrations says that unplugged ceremonies are continuing to grow in popularity, “In our ever-connected world, guests can actually find it refreshing to be reminded to be present for the marriage moment instead of watching it via a handheld device.”

Not everyone thinks unplugged weddings are a great idea. I have seen comments from brides in wedding planning forums declaring the practice “obnoxious” and that since your guests are helping you make the event possible by making travel arrangements, bringing you gifts and giving you their personal time, they should have the freedom to take their own photos.

For sure, this is the couple’s call to make. There’s no blanket approach for every wedding but, in my humble opinion, looking out at a giant sea of iPads and droids, doesn’t strike the right tone for a romantic occasion and your guests should respect your wishes simply because it’s your special day!

Here are a few ways to convey your wishes to your guests in a polite way with a chalkboard or sign describing your requests.

Welcome to our unplugged wedding. We’ve hired a professional photographer to capture this special occasion so we ask that you kindly refrain from using your handheld devices. We want to see your smiling faces in our photos!

We invite you to be fully present at our ceremony, and respectfully request that all cameras and phones be turned off. We look forward to sharing our professional photos with you after the big day.

Oh snap! Thank you for coming! We have just one plea, please help us keep our ceremony cell phone free. Our I-dos are unplugged, but our reception is not. Once we finish the first dance you’re free to take all the shots!

You can also ask your officiant to make an announcement about your unplugged policy and also remind folks to turn off devices.

Even if you are clear about your preferences, you should expect that some of your guests will defy you! I once witnessed another guest obliviously shoot constant cell phone video during a ceremony against the wishes of the bride and groom. Eventually, the bride’s brother went up to the offender and asked her to put down her phone. If you feel strongly about unplugging. have a designated person to remind people to of your request. You don’t need anyone upsetting you on your special day. Take that 25-30 minutes to unplug and connect the old-fashioned way. Your photographer will thank you and you’ll see a more faces in your photos.

It’s been a fabulous, busy year and I have so enjoyed working with all of my brides and grooms. Last year’s wedding bookings took me from Bourne to Provincetown and every Cape Cod town in between. I even had a few off-Cape and even out of state in Austin, Texas! Here’s a smattering of some of my favorite pictures from my now colossal collection of wedding celebrations.

When I first met Jackie earlier this year at a bridal show, I knew right away that we’d have fun together. She’s a cat mom with gorgeous purple hair, so obviously we connected. She and Nathan are both gentle souls. They were beaming naturally all day. Their intimate wedding was at a private home on Rocky Nook in Kingston. It was a warm, sunny day filled with cupcakes, lawn games and laughter. They even got a surprise visit from neighborhood cat, Luna, which totally delighted this feline-loving bride! The bride wore a magical Anthropologie gown flowing with tulle and the groom wore clever “meow” socks with his smart three-piece suit. They both wore their favorite sneakers down the aisle. Loved how they stayed true to their own style throughout the day. I truly enjoyed getting to know this couple and their family. What a lovely backyard wedding complete with New England charm and hospitality. Congratulations, Jackie and Nathan!