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How to Build Your Wedding Inspiration Board (Without Overthinking It!)

If you’re planning a wedding, you’ve probably found yourself scrolling through Pinterest, Instagram, or wedding blogs, saving tons of photos—but maybe you’re not sure how it all comes together. That’s totally normal! In a recent podcast interview, I chatted with Renee Burroughs of Renee Burroughs Design, an incredible wedding florist, and she shared a simple but genius tip:

“Save any photo that makes you pause!“

Even if you don’t know exactly why you like it, save it anyway. Over time, you’ll start to notice patterns in your choices, and those little details will help shape your wedding vision. So, how do you do this without feeling overwhelmed?

1. Pin first, analyze later

Don’t stress about making everything match right away. Just start saving images that speak to you—whether it’s a dreamy ceremony setup, a stunning bouquet, or even a beautiful tablescape. The key is to go with your gut.

2. Look beyond wedding photos

Your wedding style isn’t just about wedding images. If you love the cozy feel of a candlelit dinner or the sleek aesthetic of a modern hotel, save those too. These details can inspire your venue, decor, and even your photography style.

3. Find the common threads

After a while, take a step back and look at everything you’ve saved. Do you see a trend? Maybe you’re drawn to soft, romantic florals, or perhaps dramatic, moody lighting. These patterns are your style shining through.

4. Refine your board

Once you’ve gathered enough inspiration, go through and remove anything that doesn’t truly excite you. This helps you get a clearer picture of what you actually love.

5. Share with your vendors

A well-curated inspiration board helps your planner, florist, and photographer understand your vision so they can bring it to life.

So go ahead—start saving, dreaming, and let the magic unfold.

Recent wedding with Renee Burroughs Designs at Judson Mill.

Your engagement session is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. It’s a chance to celebrate your love while capturing beautiful photos you’ll cherish forever. To make sure your session goes smoothly and feels fun, here are six easy tips to help you prepare for your engagement session!

1. Coordinate Your Outfits

Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. Start with a color palette that complements your skin tone and the location of your session. Avoid overly busy patterns and logos—simple and timeless looks are best. Bring a second outfit for variety, like one dressy and one casual option. Most importantly, wear something you can move in comfortably!

2. Plan Around Golden Hour

Golden hour, the hour before sunset, provides the most flattering light. Work with your photographer to schedule your session during this magical time. If morning light suits you better, sunrise is another great option. Trust us—the light makes a huge difference in creating dreamy photos.

3. Pamper Yourselves

Take the day to relax and get camera-ready. Schedule a manicure, get your hair styled, or have your makeup professionally done. These little details make a big impact on your photos. For grooms, a fresh haircut and clean-shaven or well-groomed beard can enhance your look.

4. Bring Meaningful Props

Think about items that tell your story as a couple. A cozy blanket, your favorite books, or even your dog can add a personal touch. Props help tell your love story and create fun, candid moments.

5. Clean the Ring

Your engagement ring is a star of the session, so make sure it shines! Clean it beforehand to remove any dirt or smudges. A sparkling ring adds an extra touch of elegance to your photos.

6. Communicate with Your Photographer

Share your vision with your photographer ahead of time. Discuss any must-have shots or unique ideas you have. Let them know about your comfort level in front of the camera so they can guide you. Open communication helps your session feel relaxed and authentic.

Your engagement session is all about celebrating your relationship. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a stress-free session filled with laughter and love. We can’t wait to capture these memories for you!

Looking for more engagement session tips? Elizabeth & Mikes Winter Engagement Session

Ready for me to capture your special moments? Reach out now: Contact

As a Greenville, SC wedding photographer, I get to witness and capture some of life’s most beautiful moments. Recently, I sat down for a self-interview on my podcast, First Look, to share more about my journey, my passion for weddings, and advice for engaged couples. Here’s a little peek into my conversation with myself!

Tell Us About Yourself. How Did You Get Started?

I started out as a “mom with a camera” in 2019 and started taking photos for friends. My journey into wedding photography started with a deep love for fairytale moments and a genuine love for capturing heartfelt moments. Over the years, I’ve learned that weddings are about more than just photos—they’re about emotions, connection, and memories that last a lifetime.

What Do You Do?

I photograph weddings, but really, I do so much more on a wedding day. From the moment you get your hair done to slipping into your dress and having your first look—I’m there. I bring a sense of calm and help keep the day flowing smoothly. I joke that I’m a professional dress fluffier, but I’m also the person you can vent to and the one who clears the room when you need a moment. My goal is to be a steady presence, making sure you feel relaxed and fully present on your big day.

Who Do You Serve?

I serve couples in Greenville, Charleston, and beyond. My couples are joyful, deeply in love, and excited to celebrate their story in a way that reflects who they are. Some dream of an intimate ceremonies, while others plan a grand celebration surrounded by all their family and friends. No matter the scale, they all value timeless photography that captures both the big moments and the little in-between ones. I love working with couples who cherish candid moments, meaningful details, and the people who have shaped their journey.

Why Do You Love Weddings?

Oh, everything! Wedding days have a magic that no other event does. I love the excitement, the happy jitters, and the pure joy of two people committing their lives to each other. Seeing couples excited to marry their best friend never gets old. It’s an honor to capture those moments.
I also love getting to see people, see themselves from my perspective! Flipping the camera around so they can see why I’m squealing “AHHH you look beautiful!” couple make my heart explode!

One Piece of Advice for Engaged Couples

Spend as much time together as possible on your wedding day! If you’re having a first look, plan to stay together until the ceremony. If not, carve out time for a private dinner or a quiet moment alone. During the reception, don’t wander off too much—soak in every second together. The day flies by, and these moments will be the ones you cherish forever.

I hope this gives you a little insight into who I am and why I love what I do. If you’re planning a wedding in Greenville, SC, or beyond, I’d love to hear your love story and help capture every unforgettable moment! Contact me today to chat about your wedding photography needs! Contact

Are you looking for a Greenville, SC wedding photographer? I’d love to hear your love story and help capture every unforgettable moment! Contact me today to chat about your wedding photography needs!

Want to take a First Look at more amazing vendors? Check out the Podcast!

Pretty Place Chapel, has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is a dream ceremony location. The number one quesiton I get from coupes is, “What wedding venues are near Pretty Place Chapel?” Here are a few options in Greenville within an hour’s drive!

1. Hotel Domestique – 16 miles, approximately 30 Minutes from Pretty Place Chapel

Located in Travelers Rest, SC, Hotel Domestique blends European elegance with mountain views. This boutique hotel is ideal for couples seeking a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. Guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, farm-to-table cuisine, and picturesque grounds. It’s a short drive from Pretty Place, making it a convenient and chic option for your reception.

2. The Rutherford – 31 miles, approximately 50 minutes from Pretty Place Chapel

Nestled in the heart of Greenville, The Rutherford blends industrial charm with modern sophistication. With customizable indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s perfect for couples seeking a contemporary yet timeless setting. Its proximity to Pretty Place and downtown Greenville ensures convenience for you and your guests.

3. The Schoolhouse Venue 25 miles, approximately 50 minutes from Pretty Place

Located in Taylors, SC, The Schoolhouse Venue is a charming and historic venue. It blends vintage elegance with modern amenities, offering beautifully restored interiors and spacious outdoor areas. This venue is ideal for couples wanting a timeless and sophisticated setting. Its proximity to Pretty Place makes it a convenient option for your celebration.

4. The Westin Poinsett 35 miles, approximately 1 hour from Pretty Place

Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, The Westin Poinsett offers historic charm and luxurious ballrooms. It’s a wonderful choice for couples wanting a classic and elegant setting. Your guests can also explore Greenville’s vibrant downtown, filled with restaurants and attractions, making their experience unforgettable.

These venues provide a variety of styles and amenities to suit your wedding vision. Whether you’re drawn to mountain views, modern aesthetics, or serene settings, you’ll find the perfect location. With these options, your day will be as unforgettable as the view from the altar!

Want to see more of these Wedding Venues Near Pretty Place? Check out:

Hotel Domestique, The Rutherford, The School House Venue, The Westin

Want some more sound wedding advice? Check out my podcast: First Look.

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure! Yazmine and Luke discovered during their unforgettable celebration in Cancun, Mexico, on December 9, 2024. With 75 of their closest friends and family by their side. They created a magical experience that combined the beauty of the tropics with the warmth of their loved ones. Here are some essential tips for couples planning their own destination wedding:

1. Choose the Right Location
   Selecting the perfect destination is the cornerstone of your wedding planning. Yazmine and Luke fell in love with Cancun’s stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Consider factors such as climate, accessibility, and local attractions. This will help ensure it’s a place that resonates with both you and your guests.
2. Hire a Local Wedding Planner
   Navigating wedding logistics from afar can be challenging. A local wedding planner knows the area, vendors, and any legal requirements for marriage in that location. Yazmine and Luke’s planner in Cancun helped streamline the process, from securing the venue to coordinating with local florists and caterers.
3. Send Save-the-Dates Early
   Because destination weddings require more planning from guests. Yazmine and Luke sent out their save-the-dates a year in advance to give their guests ample time to make travel arrangements and request time off work.
4. Plan Group Activities
   To make the most of your time with loved ones, plan group activities. Yazmine and Luke organized a welcome dinner and a day trip to nearby Mayan ruins, which allowed their guests to bond and enjoy the local culture.
5. Consider a Wedding Weekend
   Since guests are traveling from afar, stretching the celebration over a weekend makes the journey worthwhile. Yazmine and Luke’s wedding weekend included a beach rehearsal dinner and a farewell brunch, creating a full itinerary of joy and connection

By following these tips, couples can turn their dream destination wedding into a seamless and memorable event, just like Yazmine and Luke did with their beautiful Cancun celebration.

Vendors:

Venue: Playa Mujeres Dreams

Your wedding week is finally here—how exciting! As the big day approaches, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by last-minute tasks. That’s why I’ve put together this simple wedding checklist to help you stay organized, stress-free, and fully present during one of the most special times of your life.

1. Enjoy Every Moment

Let’s start with the most important reminder: enjoy this week! Take time to celebrate, soak in the love around you, and savor the excitement of being so close to saying “I do.” You’ve worked so hard to plan this day, so allow yourself to fully embrace every moment.

2. Assign Helpers

You don’t have to do it all alone. Ask your bridesmaids or a trusted friend to help with last-minute errands or tasks so you can relax. Assign someone to be the point person for your vendor team and another to bring your details box to the getting-ready space. Delegating will free you up to enjoy your wedding week.

3. Prepare Your “Details Box”

To capture all the beautiful details of your wedding day, prepare a box with these items before I arrive:

• Rings: Engagement ring and both wedding bands
• Jewelry: Earrings, bracelets, necklaces
• Invitation suite: Include extra copies if possible
• Veil: Make sure it’s steamed
• Shoes: Ceremony and Reception shoes if you’re changing.
• Groom’s accessories: Cufflinks, tie, pocket square
• Family heirlooms or sentimental items
• Perfume bottle

Having these items ready will save time and ensure nothing gets missed!

4. Tidy the Getting-Ready Space

A clean and organized getting-ready space makes a huge difference in your photos. Ask your bridesmaids to tidy up the room before I arrive by clearing away clutter, keeping bags in one area, and tossing any trash. A little prep goes a long way in creating gorgeous images!

5. Complete Final Wedding Week Tasks

Here are a few final to-do’s to check off your list before the big day:

• Steam your dress and veil to ensure they’re wrinkle-free.
• Confirm arrival times and details with your vendor team.
• Pack an emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, double-sided tape, tissues, Band-Aids, and a sewing kit.
• Write a love note to your partner (optional but highly recommended for all the feels!).
• Stay hydrated and prioritize rest—this will help you feel your best.

6. The Night Before Your Wedding

Set yourself up for a smooth and calm morning with these simple steps:

• Lay out your wedding-day outfit and accessories.
• Double-check your details box to make sure everything is packed.
• Set your alarm to allow plenty of time to get ready without feeling rushed.
• Go to bed early—you’ll want to be well-rested for your amazing day ahead!

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day is about more than timelines and tasks—it’s about celebrating your love story surrounded by the people who mean the most to you. By following this checklist and preparing ahead of time, you’ll create space to truly enjoy every moment.

If you have questions or need help with anything, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here for you every step of the way. I can’t wait to be by your side and capture all the magic of your day!

What’s next?
For more wedding tips, inspiration, and resources, check out the Blog or reach out directly. Let’s make your day unforgettable!