BY THE GALLERY 360

welcome

Congratulations on your engagement! We're thrilled that you're considering us as your photographer!

Engagement sessions are a great way to get to know us and to get more comfortable being in front of the camera.

Many couples opt to use their engagement pics for pre-wedding and day-of decor, such as a guestbook, personalized favors, programs, and save-the-dates.

Whatever way you choose to use your images, we're excited to help you create a variety of gorgeous photos to choose from that you can look back at for years to come.

how to prepare for a

stress-free

engagement session

SCHEDULE YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP APPOINTMENTS

Schedule your hair and makeup appointments for the same day as your session. Your groom-to-be should also cut his hair prior to the shoot to ensure he looks his best.

GET YOUR NAILS DONE

Since there will be a lot of close-up shots of your hands, it's important to have your nails done if you want photos that look really good. Make sure your partner's nails are trimmed and clean, too.

PACK COMFORTABLE SHOES

If you know you will be moving around to different spots between photos, have a pair of flat, comfortable shoes on hand to make things easier.

PLAN YOUR WARDROBE CHANGE

If you will be changing outfits during your shoot, make sure that you've also packed shoes and accessories to match. It's also a good idea to confirm there is a place to change clothes at your photo shoot location.

BRING WATER AND SNACKS

Since your session will last for an hour or two, it helps to have some light snacks and water to keep you hydrated and energized.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT TOUCH-UPS

You never know when you may need to touch up your lipstick or blot your face to get rid of excess oil and sweat, so come prepared with makeup and blotting paper.

CLEAN YOUR RING

Your engagement ring will be featured in some of the photos, so make sure it's clean and sparkly for your shoot.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO CLEAN YOUR RING

• Place warm water in a small bowl with some washing liquid and soak the ring for about 30 minutes.
• Next, use a toothbrush to gently scrub the stone and setting.
• You can rinse your ring under warm running water. Make sure the plug is secure.
• If your ring doesn't shine as much as you'd like, repeat the process.
• You can now let your ring dry naturally or use a hairdryer on medium heat.
  

YOU GET TO KNOW YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

An engagement session is one of the best ways to truly get to know your photographer. What is it like to work with them? How well do they understand your preferences? If you are usually uncomfortable in front of a camera, this is great practice before your big day. Plus, it gives you the chance to ask questions you may not have thought of before.

IT'S FUN AND FLEXIBLE

It is perfectly fine to take photos several months after your engagement. Take your time to plan a shoot that means something to you both. This is your chance to have a little fun and walk away with beautiful photos for your home. As long as you will get your photos months ahead of your wedding, you can plan it at your own pace.

TEST OUT YOUR MAKEUP ARTIST AND HAIRSTYLIST

An engagement shoot is the ideal excuse to test out your makeup artist and hairstylist. It's better to find out if you don’t like their style way ahead of your wedding day than several days prior.

DO IT FOR YOUR SAVE-THE-DATES

Your engagement photos are the perfect photos to use for your save-the-dates. You can even incorporate some of the photos into your guestbook or décor.

what to know about

save-the-date

etiquette

Your save-the-date is your first official wedding-related communication, so it’s important to get it right.

It doesn’t matter what kind of save-the-date you want to send out, but there are some general etiquette guidelines you should follow.

WHEN TO SEND THEM OUT

If you are planning a local wedding, it’s best to send out your save-the-dates at least 6 months prior to your wedding – 8 months is even better. Asking people to travel for your wedding? To give guests enough time to make travel arrangements and arrange childcare, send your save-the-dates out 8-10 months before your big day.

WHO SHOULD RECEIVE ONE

Ideally, you should finalize your guest list before you send out save-the-dates. If you plan on having a B-list, who to send

a save-the-date to becomes a little trickier. If someone on the B-list realizes they received a save-the-date much later, they will know they weren’t on the original list, which could be awkward.

If you want to play it safe, only send a save-the-date to your closest family and friends and an invitation to them and

everyone else. This way, if you have a flexible guest list, nobody feels left out. If you do this, be prepared for a smaller turnout as not everyone will have set the date aside.

Above all else, make sure that anyone who receives a save-the-date also receives an invitation.

WHAT TO INCLUDE

Your save-the-date does not need to be complicated or overly detailed. At a minimum, you should include your names, a date, and where you plan to get married. These basic details are enough for people to set the date aside and make the necessary arrangements ahead of time. You may also indicate that a formal invitation will be sent out in the next few months.

tips on

what to wear

to your session

Choosing your outfits is definitely something you should give some proper thought to ahead of your shoot. Your photos should match your wedding style and work with both the season and your location beautifully.

Following are some tips to help you choose the perfect engagement outfits based on the season.

SUMMER

• If your shoot is during the summer, think breathable fabrics, shorter hemlines, and flat shoes. If shooting on the beach, go barefoot.
  
• If dresses aren't your thing, opt for a romper or jumpsuit instead. You can incorporate accessories to add a feminine touch.
• If you enjoy bright , bold colors, add them into your outfits.
  

FALL

• Since the weather will be getting colder and the colors outside will be changing, adapt your outfits to fit with your surroundings. Longer sleeves, layers, and a fall color palette are a must.
  
• Add accessories such as bright scarves or colorful hats. Just make sure it doesn't compete with your outfit.
  

WINTER

• Add a festive feel. If you will be shooting in winter, why not use it as the perfect excuse to incorporate some beautiful metallic colors.
  
• Since the weather can be quite unpredictable during this time of year, have some gorgeous coats and hats ready.
  
• In fitting with snowy weather, a classic white cocktail dress and a charcoal suit can give your photos an elegant and timeless feel.
  

SPRING

• Find a way to incorporate pastel colors and florals to make your photos extra dreamy and romantic.
  
• Since the weather may still be quite chilly, find a light sweater or pashmina to throw over your outfit - it also makes a great accessory.
  

ENGAGED

thegallery360@gmail.com.com | www.thegallery360.com | 330-974-5501