Complimentary Engagement Sessions

Hey there!  Some of you may be wondering what exactly is a “complimentary” engagement session.  I’ve been getting a few questions lately so I thought it would be a good time to blog post! 

2 of my wedding packages include an engagement session (though you can book one separately without the wedding package), and it’s listed as complimentary for a few reasons; 1)  it cannot be exchanged for extra hours of coverage/ cash/ album credit/ etc. 2)  it’s an extra incentive to DO the engagement session.  There is no catch, it’s exactly what it seems.  It is a gift to my clients before the wedding because of how important I believe engagement sessions truly are.  3) it is incredibly valuable to have time with the photographer before the wedding in order to see how I work, to experience how to pose, and to be comfortable in front of the camera.  These are all things that a simple meeting over coffee cannot provide.  Some couples are nervous leading up to their session, but after seeing the results and having time in front of the camera it helps to put them at ease for the wedding day.  Being comfortable with your photographer is key to getting great, more natural looking photos on the wedding day.  I have found that couples who take advantage of the engagement session are SO MUCH more comfortable being photographed on their big day than those who didn’t, and that alone is worth it! 

And the bonus is, you get some great pre-wedding photos in a more natural environment, whether needed or not.  This is another chance to tell your unique love story in a way that is 100% you. Whether you pick your favorite picnic spot or a coffee shop where you had your first date, the engagement photos can capture another aspect of your lives together.   I understand some couples do not book with me until they have already been engaged for a year or so and have already had engagement photos done.  However, even if you don’t need the photos for any particular reason, I still highly recommend doing the session because of the value of the time we spend together before the wedding.  

Because I am so passionate about the importance of engagement session, and I really want my clients to take advantage of using it (unless logistically impossible), I do not offer anything in it’s place (extra hours of coverage, etc).   When you are investing a good amount of money into a photographer you are excited to work with, you want to get the most out of your experience leading up to the wedding as well as on your wedding day, right?  

Engagement sessions are fantastic because they are much, much more relaxed than the wedding day. We have a chance to get to know each other and have fun as we’re taking photos, and establish a connection that will enhance the wedding day.  It’s what establishes the bond between my couples and me enabling us to relax and allowing me to capture the organic emotions of the day.

Next time you see a photographer who lists “complimentary” engagement session as part of their collections, hopefully you’ll understand the reasoning and importance behind the session.  Take advantage of it, you won’t regret it, I guarantee it!


Packaged With Care

I love giving my couple’s something special when receiving their images.  After anxiously awaiting the day your photos will come in the mail, getting just a cd or USB seems so impersonal.  I love giving my couple’s a little something extra they weren’t necessarily expecting.  Getting married 2 years ago, I am all too familiar with the anticipation of waiting and the excitement you get when you finally receive your precious memories in the mail!  If I can make that experience even more special, I’m going to do my best to do that.  

On top of receiving a wooden USB with the wedding images, wrapping it inside a pretty wooden box with some 4x6 prints makes it just that much more special.  The box can be used as a keepsake to store handwritten vows, love notes from the day, pieces of your dress, etc; a place to keep your memories.  It’s a way of thanking my couples for allowing me to be part of such an important day in their lives, because it’s truly an honor. 

Be on the lookout for a FULL sample of my newest packaging coming soon.  I’m very excited to share an example of what all of my future couple’s will be receiving as part of their wedding packages *YAY!!!*   I’m always looking for new ways to make my couple’s feel special because I’ve been in your shoes and I know that the little things can make the biggest difference.  


Natalie & Dan // Glen Manor House Wedding // 6.28.15

Natalie and Dan were married at the beautiful Glen Manor House in Portsmouth, RI.  I should mention, Natalie is the former Miss Massachusetts and a Miss USA competitor and she made a truly stunning bride!  

The whole day and evening had such a romantic feel.  The venue was decorated beautifully with candles adorning the fireplace mantels and tables.  Despite a bit of drizzle, the ceremony was still held outside in the gardens surrounding the manor house with a stunning view of the Sakonnet River.  Such a fairytale location!  I felt like we had stepped onto the grounds of a French Chateau. 

Congratulations Natalie & Dan, it was an honor to be a part of your day! 

The awesome professionals who made the day possible: 

Venue: Glen Manor House

Band: Clockwork 

Flowers: A New Leaf

Wedding Gown: Justin Alexander

Catering: Russell Morin Catering & Events

Event Planning: Russell Morin Catering & Events

Videography: Zakk Bates with D.P. Weddings 

Hair: Neil Gannon

Makeup: Arturo Draper

Day of Coordinator: Erica Phillips of Russell Morin Catering & Events

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