As we head into "proposal season", there will be so many important things couples need to focus on during planning.  A new trend has been capturing the proposal!  We have had the honor of capturing many proposals!  It's one of the most special times in a couples lives and I love being a part of it!  There are so many local spots right here in NJ and the Philadelphia area!  There are so many great options locally right here in Burlington County, NJ!  The Mount Holly area brings character and historical options.  Philadelphia, Princeton, Bucks County also provide many opportunities for venues and landscapes!  But my recommendation would be to make it personal to the couple!

Next, the wedding planning!  While everything is important, it's about prioritizing your budget.  Location is probably your first decision, then it all starts to get overwhelming.  

Yesterday, I was speaking with a mother of the bride.  When she heard I was a photographer, she went on about how disappointed she was in her daughter's wedding photos. She indicated there was nothing special and the photographer was miserable all day. I've heard this all too often.  It's important to have realistic expectations as well as selecting the right photographer for YOU!  When all said and done, wedding couples spend the majority of their wedding (before, during and after) with their photographer.

Please be sure to ask many questions when interviewing photographers, see the quality of their images AND products, and REALLY LIKE the person who will be with you through so much of it. It's not just about using who friends are using. You need to find someone who fits with your style and personality.  It may sound self-serving, but other than the marriage itself, your memories and wedding photography will last a lifetime.  Products are also important, not digitals that may end up lost in a drawer after your big day is over and life begins again.  I pride myself on customer service, great quality, and bringing my clients the best possible experience!

Invest in Photography

This doesn’t mean you have to devote a massive portion of your budget to photography, but this is the time to opt for quality over cost. A good photographer is truly worth it—those photos only get more valuable over time, and memories are priceless! There are so many special moments (planned and candid) that happen throughout your wedding day, and while you might be able to find a cheaper option, that lower price could mean things get missed. Instead, do your research, ask around, and invest in a package that offers all the coverage you really want.

Here is a great article from brides.com on creating a wedding budget and yes, investing in photography!