Couples Styling

You guys, I am SO EXCITED to work with you!! This is going to be so fun!

Location, posing, all my pro tips to make you guys look amazing, and of course ensuring this is an amazing experience for you both - that’s all on me. But before your session even starts - THE MOST important part you can be working on is STYLING. This can’t be over-stated. ;) Putting some thought into this up front will really pay off.

My *stand-alone sessions are typically 1.5 hours with time for 1 outfit. If you’d like 2 outfits, you’ll want to add an additional 30 min. (Engagement sessions bundled with a Wedding packages will have varied durations depending on the package).

I’ll always take a good variety of poses ranging from organic, authentic, fun, romantic, poised, and editorial). Two outfits (one casual, one more elevated) really allow for the full spectrum of poses. But if we only have time for, or if you prefer to just have one outfit, choose the styling that most aligns with your goals for this session. If you’re wanting more fun, candid, organic type shots, casual is probably best. If you really love the editorial look, go with something more elevated. In either case, I’m still going get a really good variety of all these poses.

Most of my couples do a great job of styling on their own. If you are stuck and need inspo, let me know and I’ll send you my Pinterest board!

Look Good. Feel Good.

Ultimately, you should each choose outfits that make you feel great and go well together. TRY EVERYTHING ON BEFOREHAND and be sure your clothes are comfortable and fit well. We do a lot of moving around, so this is key ;)

Girls, be sure include classic, simple jewelry to complete your outfit; diamond or pearl studs, or hoops paired with a simple necklace(s) and bracelet(s). Guys, always wear a belt and throw in a watch or bracelet. It just looks cool.

Nordstrom, Aritzia, Altere’d State, Abercrombie, Madewell, Express, Free People, Anthropologie, Lulus, and H&M are good options that offer a great mix of classic and on-trend styles.

Color Palet

A neutral pallet is a win every time - especially with couples. These are timeless and will go with any environment as well as your home and venue decor. Tip: Off-white, tends to photograph and compliment skin tones better than true white. If you want to include some color, consider using pops of your wedding palette. This will create a cohesive vibe for your save-the-dates, wedding invitations, shower, rehearsal, and wedding-day decor. Please avoid neon colors, and bold/busy patterns.

Putting it all together.  

And finally… (important tips).

  • No Wrinkles. PLEASE have your clothing well-pressed and choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics.

  • No Text, or Large Graphics.

  • Hands & Nails. Whether you're a guy or girl, don't forget your hands. Your hands will be used a lot in posing and they will definitely show. Guys, be sure your nails are clean and trimmed. Girls a light, neutral polish is perfect. If this is an engagement shoot, be sure your ring is sparkling clean! :)

  • Guys. Remember to wear a belt - even if you don't really need it.  Its purpose is more for style than function ;) Be sure your socks and shoes coordinate well with your outfits. And, don't forget to throw in a bracelet or watch. Even if these aren’t something you’d normally wear, they’ll complete your look.

  •  Arrive clean shaven. If you have facial hair (beard, goatee, etc.) make sure it's well defined, with the surrounding areas cleaned up (including neck hairs). Facial hair that's not well-defined just ends up looking scruffy.   

  • Girls. Choose outfits that will accommodate various poses comfortably. If you’re wearing a bra, be sure the straps are concealed or look at strapless alternatives.  It's a good idea to bring an extra pair of shoes just for walking around, as some areas may be a little tricky to access with heels/sandals :) 

Ladies. Hair and Make-up.  

For hair, natural body, loose curls and/or beachy waves are best from a photographic standpoint. If your hair is typically straight, adding some body will look amazing in your pics. Again, most girls are comfortable doing this on their own. But feel free to make an appointment with your stylist if needed.

Even if you don’t normally wear makeup, I recommend it for this occasion. I know you’ll look and feel amazing. We want a classic, timeless look with natural tones. Professional makeup is NOT necessary, and most of my clients do their own. But if this isn’t your strong suit, check with places like Nordstrom, Sephora and Ulta.  Pricing can range from Free (with a small purchase) to around $60.  Please tell your makeup artist you are going for a very natural look.

I don’t typically recommend false lashes, just be sure to choose a good mascara that doesn’t clump, flake, or smudge. If wearing false lashes, please be sure they have a very classic, timeless look. Nothing too dramatic and definitely no lifting.