Calling all brides-to-be (and those who love a good wedding story)! You’ve likely glimpsed snippets of my wedding scrapbook pages floating around the internet.

Today, I’m excited to gather them all in one place, just for you! While you can delve deeper into the creative process behind each page by clicking the links throughout the post, my main focus here is to share some of the best wedding tips I discovered along the way. From finding the perfect pajamas for pre-wedding photos to capturing magical moments with a sunset backdrop, consider this your insider’s guide to planning a wedding that’s both fun and full of meaningful memories.

So, grab your virtual scrapbook and let’s dive into the world of wedding planning – with a dash of advice and a whole lot of celebration!

If you are looking to create your own wedding scrapbook check out my supply list below:

1. Reverse Image Search to the Rescue: Finding the Perfect PJs for Your Pre-Wedding Prep

Ah, the getting-ready portion of the wedding day! It’s a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and maybe even a few happy tears. It’s also a prime opportunity for some truly adorable photos that will capture the special moments leading up to the ceremony. But for many brides (and grooms!), there’s one small detail that can add a touch of fun and personalization to these pre-wedding pictures: matching pajamas!

Imagine this: you and your bridesmaids, all decked out in cute, comfy PJs, sharing champagne toasts and exchanging nervous giggles. Or you and your soon-to-be-spouse, sporting adorable partner PJs, sharing a quiet moment before the big event. It’s these little touches that can make your wedding photos truly special – and finding the perfect pair of PJs can feel like a daunting task.

Enter the magic of reverse image search!

Here’s where your smartphone (or trusty computer) becomes your secret weapon. Let’s say you stumble upon a picture on Pinterest or Instagram that features the most adorable pair of bee-printed pajamas you’ve ever seen. Maybe they’re a perfect shade of soft pink, or perhaps they have a playful pattern that just screams “getting-ready fun.”

But where on earth do you find these PJs? Don’t worry, because with a quick reverse image search, you can be on your way to pajama paradise. Here’s how it works:

• Screenshot those dream PJs: Snap a quick picture of the pajamas you love. Most smartphones have a built-in screenshot function, or you can use a snipping tool on your computer.
• Harness the power of Google: Head over to your favorite search engine (like Google!) and navigate to the “Images” tab.
• Upload your screenshot: There’s usually a handy camera icon on the search bar. Click it, and upload the screenshot of your dream PJs.
• Voila! The magic of the internet: Google will then scour the web for similar images, hopefully leading you to the online store or retailer that sells those perfect pajamas.

Bonus Wedding Tip: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your search terms. If the bee-printed PJs are your ultimate goal, try searching for “women’s pajamas bee print pink” or “honeycomb pajamas sleepwear set.” The more specific your search, the better chance you have of finding those exact PJs!

So, there you have it! With a little reverse image search magic, you can find the perfect pajamas to add a touch of personality and fun to your pre-wedding photos. Now, get ready for some seriously cute getting-ready pictures that will be cherished for years to come!

2. The Art of the Guest Photo: Striking a Balance on Your Wedding Day

We all love a good wedding photo, myself included! But as many couples know, navigating the world of guest photography during your ceremony can be a tricky tightrope walk. You want your friends and family to capture precious moments, but you also want them to be fully present and avoid a sea of iPhones blocking the view.

Here’s how we approached the “photo time” dilemma at our own wedding:

• A Moment for Memories: We completely understand the desire for guests to capture special moments on their phones. After all, these are the pictures they’ll share and cherish for years to come. So, instead of a blanket ban on phones, we allocated a short window before the ceremony began for guests to snap some photos.

Finding the Sweet Spot

Here’s what we did:

• Pre-Ceremony Snapfest: We dedicated a few minutes before the ceremony began for guests to take their own photos. This allowed them to capture those cherished moments of us standing at the altar, all beautifully decorated and ready to say “I do.”
• A Glimpse into the Ceremony: This brief pre-ceremony photo window also yielded a delightful bonus! We ended up with some adorable candid shots of our guests themselves, all dressed up and excited, taking selfies with friends and family. These candid moments perfectly captured the atmosphere of anticipation and joy that filled the room.
• Professional Touch Takes Over: Once the ceremony began, we kindly asked guests to put their phones away. This allowed our professional photographer to capture all the important moments without any distractions, ensuring we received stunning, high-quality photos that truly documented our special day.

The Best of Both Worlds

By incorporating a dedicated time for guest photos before the ceremony, we achieved the best of both worlds. Guests got their cherished phone pictures, and our professional photographer was able to capture the ceremony flawlessly. It was a small but impactful detail that helped us ensure a truly memorable experience for everyone involved. You can see the laughs in our faces in this wedding scrapbook page as a result something the professional photographer couldn’t create.

3. Sharing the Fun: The Magic of QR Codes and Guest Photos

We’ve talked about the importance of professional wedding photos for our wedding scrapbook pages and how to accommodate guests’ desire for their own snapshots. But there’s another layer to the wedding photo story: capturing those candid moments your guests capture themselves!

Beyond the Professional Lens

Sure, the professional photographer delivers stunning, high-quality images, but they can’t be everywhere at once. This is where guest photos come in. Guests often capture unique angles and perspectives that provide a more personal and intimate look at the celebration.

Introducing the QR Code

Now, by this point in the blog, you might have noticed that the photos we’ve shared in our wedding scrapbook pages aren’t the professional shots. So, how did we get all these amazing candid pictures from our guests? Here’s where a little technological magic comes in: the QR code.

QR Code 101

For those unfamiliar, a QR code (Quick Response code) is a black and white square image that can be scanned by smartphones using a camera app or a dedicated QR code reader app. When scanned, the QR code directs you to a specific website, app, or even a document.

The Power of the Shared Folder

Here’s how we used QR codes at our wedding:

• Pre-Wedding Planning: Before the big day, I created a shared folder in Google Photos. This folder would be a central location where all the guest-captured photos could be uploaded.
• The Power of Print: We had a QR code generated for the shared folder. This QR code was then printed on business cards.
• A Seat at the Table: On the wedding day, we placed these business cards with the QR code right on everyone’s plate setting.

Instant Photo Sharing

The result? Pure magic! Throughout the evening, guests could scan the QR code with their smartphones and easily upload their photos to the shared Google Photos folder. This meant that by the next day, we had a treasure trove of candid moments captured from all angles, adding a unique and personal touch to our wedding memories. This Wedding Tip may have been the biggest advantage to the day!

4. From Hesitant to Hotfoot: Our Pre-Wedding Dance Lesson Adventure

Ah, the first dance. It’s a wedding tradition steeped in romance and symbolism, but let’s be honest – it can also feel a tad awkward. The idea of swaying back and forth for three minutes under the watchful eyes of your loved ones isn’t exactly thrilling.

For me, the thought of a lackluster first dance was simply unacceptable! I craved something more, something that would capture the joy and excitement of our new chapter together. So, I hatched a plan: wedding dance lessons!

Initially Hesitant Hero

My now-husband, bless his heart, was a little hesitant about the idea. Dancing wasn’t exactly his forte, and visions of two left feet fumbling around on the dance floor filled his head. However, with a little convincing (and maybe some promises of post-lesson celebratory treats!), he eventually agreed.

Football Footwork Takes Flight

Little did we know, those dance lessons would become one of the most fun and memorable pre-wedding activities we participated in. It turns out, my husband’s background in football translated surprisingly well to the dance floor. Our instructor, a true cheerleader of sorts, kept showering him with compliments on his natural coordination.

Lifts, Throws, and Picture-Perfect Moments

This newfound confidence led to some unexpected (and dare I say, impressive?) moves. Before we knew it, we were mastering lifts, throws, and dips – all with a surprising level of grace (and a whole lot of laughter!).

And the best part? These dance lessons not only boosted our confidence for the first dance, but they also resulted in some absolutely stunning photos for our wedding scrapbook pages. Capturing the joy and energy of our newfound dance skills on camera was a bonus we never anticipated.

More Than Just a Dance

Those dance lessons were so much more than just learning a few steps. They were a chance to bond, to laugh together, and to create a memory that we’ll cherish forever. So, to all the couples out there contemplating a first dance, I say this: ditch the awkward sway and embrace the adventure! You might be surprised by what you discover on the dance floor, both about yourselves and your partner. This was actually a wedding tip a close friend gave us and I am glad we listened.

5. Formal Flats: Comfort and Confidence on Your Wedding Day

Traditionally, wedding attire seems to go hand-in-hand with sky-high stilettos. However, for many brides, those elegant heels can quickly turn into uncomfortable blisters and a fear of taking a tumble on the dance floor.

Formal Flats to the Rescue!

There’s a beautiful alternative that offers both comfort and sophistication: formal flats! Here’s why I opted for flats on my wedding day, and why you shouldn’t be afraid to do the same:

• Wedding Tip; Comfort is Key: Let’s be honest, weddings are marathons, not sprints. From pre-ceremony jitters to dancing the night away, you’ll be on your feet for hours. Formal flats allow you to celebrate in style without sacrificing comfort. You can focus on enjoying your special day, not wincing with every step.
• Stability on the Dance Floor: Wedding dance floors can be unpredictable – uneven surfaces, exuberant guests, and the occasional rogue beverage spill. Flats provide a sturdier base, allowing you to bust a move with confidence. Who needs to worry about a stiletto mishap when you can twirl and spin with carefree abandon?
• Style and Sophistication: Gone are the days when flats were considered the dowdy cousin of heels. Formal flats come in a stunning array of styles, from sleek pointed toes to elegant d’orsays. You can even find them embellished with pearls, lace, or even a touch of personalized embroidery (like my “I Do” shoes!).

Confidence from the Ground Up

Choosing formal flats for my wedding day was one of the best decisions I made and therefore one of my top wedding tips to share. They allowed me to truly embrace every moment of the celebration, from the first dance to the farewell sparkler send-off. Here’s the thing: confidence is the ultimate accessory, and when you feel comfortable and supported by your shoes, it radiates through in every step you take.

So, to all the brides-to-be out there, don’t be afraid to break the mold! Formal flats are a stylish and comfortable option that will allow you to celebrate your wedding day to the fullest. Focus on feeling confident and beautiful, and let your personality shine through, one comfortable step at a time.

6. Sharing the Spotlight: How to Include Friends and Family in Your Wedding Planning

Wedding planning can be a whirlwind! Between venue hunting, dress shopping, and finalizing endless details, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the wedding tip secret: you don’t have to go it alone! Including your friends and family in the planning process can not only lighten your load but also create a more meaningful and shared experience.

Delegation is Divine

Let’s be honest, there are countless tasks involved in planning a wedding, from big decisions to seemingly insignificant details. Don’t be afraid to delegate! Here are some ways to get your loved ones involved:

• The Detail Delegation: Feeling stressed about assembling wedding favors or creating place cards? Enlist the help of a crafty friend or family member. They’ll likely relish the opportunity to unleash their creativity and contribute to your special day.
• The Taskforce Team: Maybe you need help with putting together a wedding playlist or brainstorming decoration ideas. Assemble a small team of friends or family members who share your taste. Bounce ideas around, delegate research tasks, and enjoy the collaborative spirit!
• The Pre-Wedding Pampering Posse: Delegate the responsibility of booking spa appointments for the bridal party or planning a fun pre-wedding get-together. This takes a weight off your shoulders and allows your loved ones to contribute to the excitement leading up to the big day.

Beyond the To-Do List

Including your friends and family goes beyond simply checking tasks off a list. Here’s how to create a more meaningful experience:

• The “Inner Circle” Sneak Peek: Give your closest friends and family a sneak peek at your wedding vision. Share inspiration photos, discuss potential vendors, and get their feedback. Their support and enthusiasm will be a welcome boost during the planning process.
• The “Let Me Help!” Embrace: Many people, especially those who have been bridesmaids or groomsmen themselves, genuinely want to be involved in your wedding. Don’t be afraid to say “yes” to offers of help, big or small. Their willingness to contribute is a gift, and their participation will make the day even more special.

Memories in the Making

By including your friends and family in the planning process, you’re not just delegating tasks; you’re creating shared memories and fostering a sense of community around your celebration. Looking back, the wedding planning journey itself can become a cherished part of the story.

7. Seize the Golden Hour: Capturing Magical Photos with a Sunset Backdrop

Ah, the wedding day sunset – a breathtaking moment that deserves to be captured forever. As the sky ignites with a fiery palette of orange, pink, and purple, it creates the perfect backdrop for some truly magical wedding photos and of course wedding scrapbook pages.

Don’t Miss the Golden Opportunity

The window of opportunity for these sunset photos might seem small, but trust me, it’s worth it! Here’s the wedding tip on how to make the most of this fleeting moment:

• Golden Hour Glow: The key to stunning sunset photos lies in understanding the “golden hour.” This is the brief period after sunset when the sun dips below the horizon, casting a soft, warm light that flatters skin tones and creates a dreamy atmosphere.
• Be Photo Ready: Communicate with your photographer beforehand about your desire for sunset photos. They’ll be able to factor in timing and location to ensure you capture the golden hour magic. If you’re opting for some candid sunset shots with your partner, be ready to jump in front of the camera when the photographer (or your helpful cousin!) gives the cue.

Pixel Perfection (But Not Just Pixel)

And speaking of capturing magic, let’s give a shoutout to the amazing smartphone cameras available today! The photos you see here, taken in a mere minute by your cousin on his Google Pixel phone, are a testament to the incredible advancements in mobile photography. While the Google Pixel series does boast a superior camera (and that’s a topic for another blog post entirely!), many modern smartphones are capable of capturing stunning photos, especially in good lighting conditions like the golden hour.

A Moment to Cherish

So, as the sun dips below the horizon on your wedding day, don’t miss the opportunity to steal a few moments with your partner and capture the beauty of the golden hour. These photos will be a cherished reminder of the magic and wonder of your special day and on of my favorite wedding scrapbook pages.

8. The Last Dance: A Private Farewell on a High Note

Wedding days are a whirlwind of emotions, activities, and of course, photos! From the heartfelt ceremony to the joyous reception, it’s easy for the day to fly by in a blur. But here’s how we created a special ending that allowed us to savor the final moments as husband and wife:

A Private Last Dance

The day is filled with well wishes, cheers, and interactions with loved ones. But amidst all the celebratory hustle, there’s something truly special about a private last dance with your partner. Here’s why we opted for this intimate moment:

• A Moment of Reflection: After the excitement of the reception, a private last dance offers a chance to steal a quiet moment with your spouse. You can reflect on the day’s events, share whispered secrets, and simply enjoy each other’s company.
• A Closing Chapter: This final dance marks the end of the wedding festivities and the beginning of your new life together as a married couple. It’s a symbolic moment that allows you to cherish the memories of the day and look forward to the exciting adventures ahead.

Shut Up and Dance (One Last Time!)

For our first dance, we opted for a slow, acoustic version of “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon. It was a romantic and intimate moment that set the tone for the evening.

But for our final dance, we decided to end the night on a high note! We switched to the original, upbeat version of the song, transforming our private dance into a mini dance party for two. It was a joyous and energetic way to celebrate the culmination of our special day.

Captured by the Click

Thankfully, our ever-reliable cousin was there to capture these final moments with his camera. The photographs perfectly encapsulate the joy and excitement of our last dance, serving as a cherished reminder of the emotions we shared at the end of our wedding celebration.

Soaking Up Every Moment

The wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. By incorporating a private last dance, we created a space to savor the final moments and truly appreciate the magic of the day before diving headfirst into married life. So, cherish every moment, big and small, and don’t forget to steal those quiet moments of connection – because after all, that’s what makes the celebration truly special.

Looking back, our wedding day was a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and unforgettable moments. From the carefully planned details to the spontaneous dance moves, it was a day that truly reflected our love story. If you’re planning your own wedding, remember to embrace the journey, savor the special moments, and don’t be afraid to add your own unique touches. Most importantly, focus on celebrating your love and starting your new chapter together – because at the end of the day, that’s what truly matters.