Not too long ago, I saw a few other photographers post similar blog or Instagram posts, and I thought I’d jump on the bandwagon! After all, sometimes brides want the input of a photographer but don’t know what questions to ask. So, here you go. Some of my top directions for 2020 and 2021 weddings! Did any of them surprise you? What would YOU include!? Leave a comment, and make sure to let me know if you’re considering any of these ideas for your wedding day.

1. Outdoor Receptions — you just can’t go wrong. Well, okay, maybe in the winter here in the midwest, this would be a poor decision. ;) But anytime May-early October in Iowa or the surrounding states, and outdoor reception will class up your day & bring your photographer joy in creating your images. It’s a smart idea, per-Covid, and you can rent a big white tent in case of extreme heat or wet weather conditions. Plus, who doesn’t want to have a first dance surrounded by fireflies?!

2. Custom touches for both guys & gals (bow ties, jackets, etc.) — Forget monogrammed towel sets, this is a whole step up! Sean had custom jacket liners created for his groomsmen, and I’ve loved seeing the jewelry or giftbags that my brides have included for their ladies. Etsy has a score of ideas, and so does Pinterest. You can’t go wrong!

3. Micro Weddings (or intimate ceremonies!) —Again, with a pandemic in the mix, intimate wedding days showed up in style this year. There’s something special about having your most trusted crew with you for your vows, and you can officially get married almost anywhere you want! (I’d love to tag along if you’re eloping in a national park… just saying!)

4. Large statement florals —You know flowers are my love language! But it’s not just because I love smelling/holding your bouquet, gals. Oversized florals photograph so well! And, you’ll be extra buff after the wedding. 😅

5. Eco-friendly wedding decor— just because you’re hosting a wedding reception doesn’t mean you get a pass from Mother Earth. Food waste & garbage waste is just SAD. There are many creative ways to turn your reception into an eco friendly event! Purchase compostable dishwear, have your guests bring their own “picnic style” or hire a rental company to help you out with reusable flatwear.

6. Unique desserts! — What’s the best dessert in your opinion?! Cake is great, but so is ice cream, or donuts, or macarons… and the list goes on. Don’t feel like you have to partake in a traditional sheet cake (or even cake cutting) if you don’t want to! I’ve even seen pies at a wedding reception with an assortment of flavors. Yum!

7. First Look with dad— This idea is genius. I’ve seen brides do reveals with dad, brothers, and even their bridesmaids! It’s a sweet way to capture some extra photos of you and the special people in your life & wedding day. Bonus: dad almost always cries.

8. Statement floral and geometric ceremony arbors/backdrops — because more art is NEVER a bad idea. Whether that’s a simple backdrop like pictured below, and hand-crafted triangle or geometric “arch” designed by a family member, or something else, you can take your ceremony space from simple to standout!

See one of my favorite ones here, from legendary photographer Kristen Morris’ own wedding!