DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER // NEW MEXICO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER // COLORADO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

1. Exchange Private Vows Before the Ceremony

If the idea of sharing your vows in front of a big crowd feels a little too vulnerable, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to. A private vow exchange allows you to express what’s truly on your heart without the pressure of an audience. It’s one of the most emotionally rich ways to ground yourselves in this day.

You can do this during your first look, tucked away in a quiet corner of your venue, or even read your letters aloud to each other without seeing each other beforehand, just back-to-back, hands intertwined. It slows down the day’s energy and centers you in something sacred.

Tip: Ask your videographer or photographer to capture the audio and emotion of your private vows so you can relive the moment without needing to display it for everyone else.

2. Gift & Letter Exchanges in the Morning

Before the whirlwind of getting ready picks up speed, consider planning a gift exchange or a handwritten letter reading. It doesn’t need to be extravagant—a meaningful note, a book with margin notes, a framed photo, or something symbolic of your relationship goes a long way.

Reading a letter from your partner while getting ready can anchor you emotionally. It’s a reminder of your “why” before the day’s events sweep you up. And if you’re the kind of person who tears up easily? It’s a good time to cry peacefully (and before the makeup).

​​3. Record Voice Memos for Each Other to Listen to While Getting Ready

Instead of a traditional letter, try recording a voice memo for your partner to listen to on the morning of your wedding. Whether funny, emotional, or simply a pep talk, it’s a beautiful way to feel present with each other, even while you’re apart.

How to do it: Use your phone’s voice memo app and send it to a trusted friend, planner, or videographer to queue it up at the right moment. If you want to make it extra cinematic, add music or ambient sounds in the background.

5. Share a Solo or Private Dance

If dancing in front of everyone makes you a little nervous—or you simply want to make it more personal—opt for a private first dance. This could be in an empty reception space before guests are let in, outside under string lights after the party winds down, or even in your hotel room after the day.

Another creative option? A private last dance. After everyone leaves the reception and the venue clears, take a few minutes to slow dance in your empty space. It’s often one of the most cherished moments of the day.

6. Turn Sunset into a Breathing Space

Sunset portraits often feel like a “photo obligation,” but they can be much more! Let them be an opportunity to pause, talk, laugh, and reflect. Your photographer can capture you candidly while you decompress from the ceremony and sneak away from the crowd.

This is often when the best, most natural photos happen—the in-between moments, when the nerves have melted and the joy really sets in.

7. End the Night with a Moment of Reflection

Before falling into bed (or heading off to your after-party), carve out a moment to reflect. Whether you record a voice memo, jot down a few thoughts in a journal, or just hold hands and talk about your favorite parts of the day, it helps solidify the memories and emotional high of the celebration.

Idea: Bring a little notebook with prompts like: “What surprised you today?” or “What moment made you feel most loved?” and trade answers before heading to bed.