For me, a “full-sized wedding” usually means 50+ guests, a ceremony and reception, formal portraits of the couple and their families, and often getting-ready and first-look coverage. Any time a wedding includes 75+ guests, I bring a second photographer to make sure no moments are missed.

One of the most important parts of a smooth wedding day is everyone being on the same page. I work closely with my couples (and planners/coordinators, when applicable) to create a custom wedding-day timeline that keeps things flowing efficiently and calmly—so you can actually enjoy your day.

When I started photographing weddings back in 2012, it was standard to book photographers for 8–10 hours. These days, unless your celebration includes a lengthy religious ceremony or spans multiple days, I can confidently say: you don’t need that much coverage.

A thoughtful timeline means nothing gets missed, your time is well spent, and you can put those extra funds toward something that matters to you—your honeymoon, a home, or your life together. I’m a business owner, yes—but I’m also a real human who knows weddings are expensive. I get it.

Elopements are simply weddings scaled down—more intimate, more personal, and often more location-focused. Typically, elopements include around 10 guests or fewer, minimal (or no) reception plans, and a strong emphasis on portraits and experience over tradition.

My husband and I eloped in our living room with just our parents. We wore jeans. I carried a homemade bouquet. Later, we dressed up and hired a photographer to meet us at one of our favorite local breweries. Those photos—wedding attire, beer flights, nachos, and burgers—became our announcement. It was simple. It was us. It was perfect.