You might already know exactly what you want to do with your engagement photos, but for many couples, they aren’t sure how to make the most of those beautiful images! Even those who have planned to use them for one or two things may not realize how many ways these photos can be used in the time before (and after!) the wedding!

Wedding Website

If you’re reading this magazine, let’s face it: you’re probably a Millennial (ugh, I hate being stereotyped!). But, apparently we Millennials love technology & the internet. In the last few years, wedding websites have become an assumed part of the wedding planning process, and for such a good reason: they’re convenient, easy to access, and a beautiful way to share information about your wedding day! You’ve probably seen wedding websites done really well and also really poorly. In general, the key to a website that looks great is beautiful photos. I suggest choosing your website AFTER you receive your photos, so that you can match style & color to the images. If you’ve already selected a website template, you may want to consider the color & style of your site when picking out outfits and locations for your engagement session. A classic blush & gold website may clash with a red dress or other bright colors, and a flowery, fresh website with lots of green & white may look strange with the city as a backdrop for all your photos.

Some websites we love at HBP: WithJoy.com, ApplyCouple.com, RileyGrey.com   

Wedding & Reception Details

With every personal touch you add to your wedding day, you make your celebration more unique and more YOU. Using your engagement photos as a part of your wedding day is a super-personal way to make the day stand out. A few tasteful, framed images on a gift table or guestbook table is a great way to personalize the space. A sign-able photo guestbook allows guests to see a glimpse of your relationship and also leave you a personal note. Incorporating your images in subtle, tasteful ways adds dimension & personality to your decor. It’s also a treat for your guests – the people who love you the most and want to see your face!

Instagram & Wedding Hashtags

While I’m not telling you to post every single photo from your session to social media, posting a couple photos throughout the wedding planning process is a great way to get your friends & family excited for the big day! The biggest advantage to this early posting is that you can begin to use your wedding day hashtag (if you’re planning to have one!). Even with a big sign or announcement about the wedding hashtag on your wedding day, many guests will miss the memo. Using it regularly, in advance, will not only get guests excited for the day, but also help them remember your fun hashtag!

Furnishing Your Space

Whether it’s at home or in your office, ultimately, your engagement photos should be getting you two excited about your wedding day! With all the stress and tedious challenges of planning a wedding, sometimes the excitement starts to wear off. Remind yourself of the reason behind it all: you are getting married to your soulmate! I highly encourage all of my couples to have a framed photo someplace where they will see it regularly. It’s a sweet reminder of the union that is to come, and also a reminder of what matters the most!