INVESTMENT GUIDE THE WEDDING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE LUXE COLLECTION
THE COMFORT COLLECTION
THE BASIC COLLECTION
THE ADD-ONS
STYLIZED PHOTO EDITING
THE BOOKING PROCESS
GETTING READY DETAILS THE
LET’S GET STARTED!
WELCOME!
This Wedding Investment Guide has been a labor of love and my hope is that you will find everything you need to know about hiring a wedding photographer, the engagement session, planning a timeline, gallery delivery, and bridal preparations for your wedding day to ease the stress of wedding planning.
I handcrafted this guide based on years of real, honest conversations (over a few beers of course!) with couples who weren’t sure where to start planning- or who felt overwhelmed by the process in general.
When Zach and I were going through the process, we felt totally defeated by the millions of tiny nuances that came with planning a large event but, luckily, we hired some outstanding vendors to help us and it made a world of difference. They helped us take the nebulous vision we had for our wedding day and turn it into something so crystal clear and concise that planning became less overwhelming and difficult.
When our wedding day finally arrived, it was perfect- down to the very last detail and we have a lot of people to thank for it- especially our vendors. I felt inspired by our experience and it became my mission to help other couples feel more in control of wedding planning and to be the champion for their vision.
I hope the information in this guide will help to answer some of the burning photographyrelated questions you and your fiance might have so you can relax (and crack a beer!) and get excited for your big day! Congratulations on your engagement!
CHEERS!
IT’S GREAT TO MEET YOU!
HI, I’M HALEY!
In 2015, I started Haley Frost Creative with the goal of helping people document and preserve some of the most precious memories of their lives. My mission has been to create these heirlooms so that you can relive and celebrate every moment, exactly as it was -cake on the nose + all.
Whether I’m using a camera to capture the love you share with your best friend during your first look, the gorgeous details of your tablescape, or the soft embrace during your first dance…photographing your wedding day is about more than just capturing the beautiful moments. (Honestly, that’s the easy part!)
As far as my approach…it’s all about being comfortable. I’m just your average North
Dakota transplant who has an addiction to the wilderness, true crime podcasts, cheese boards, folk music, and brewery tours with my husband, Zach. We’re also the incredibly overly-dedicated dog parents of Fiona, Blue, and Monty.
So before we even get to the photos or designs, I want to take time to get to know you (preferably over a craft beer…or two) and for you to get to know me! Because in the end, it’s not just a transaction. I want to build a genuine relationship with you, for you to trust me as an expert (and friend!), and for us to stay connected even after our creative adventure ends.
Let’s create something amazing together!
THE ENGAGEMENT SESSION
ABOUT ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS
The engagement session is all about getting comfortable in front of the camera (and of course, capturing some gorgeous photos). They’re a great way for me to find your best angles, figure out which lighting you prefer, and get a feel for your ideal poses + settings.
SESSION BREAKDOWN
1-1.5 hours
Up to 3 outfits
Up to 2 locations
SESSION TIPS
Get hair + makeup done professionally
• Get a fresh manicure and have your ring cleaned
• Bring flats for backup shoes between locations
• Avoid getting a spray tan as they can make you look orange in photographs
ABOUT LOCATIONS
As far as location, I’m game for wherever you will be the most comfortable. We can head to the spot where you had your first date, get a little woodsy at a nearby park, head to your favorite downtown Fargo landmark, or snap some sweet moments of you both hanging out at home.
If you have a particular location that’s special to you, let me know! I’m always excited to try something new!
FAQ: CAN I SAVE MONEY
BY REMOVING THE ENGAGEMENT SESSION FROM A COLLECTION?
The engagement session is a complimentary gift so removing it will not affect the price of a collection. It’s recommended that you keep this session so we can learn how we work best together before the big day!
STYLING TIPS
DRESS FOR COMFORT
When you dress comfortably, you look more relaxed on camera. Find things that fit you well and make you feel great.
CHOOSE YOUR COLOR PALETTE
For timeless results, aim for neutral tones, light pastels, or cool tones. Avoid bright reds and oranges as they photograph poorly.
COMPLIMENT, DON’T MATCH
Not that I don’t enjoy the occasional matching Canadian tuxedo look- but aim to compliment your partner- not match them. For visual help- try laying your outfits out on the bed and taking a step back.
AVOID CLOTHES WITH BRANDING
Clothing with large company logos can create a distraction in your images.
BRING PROPS
Add a bit more style to your engagement session by bringing a blanket, a guitar, or even some champagne!
STYLE TIPS FOR HIM
Need a fresh fade? Make sure to get it done before your session so that your hair is neat + tidy! Avoid wearing hats the day of your engagement session.
WANT MORE INSPO?
• Check out my outfit inspiration pinterest board here: https://www. pinterest.com/haleyfrostcreative/ engagement-client/
• Check out my color palette inspiration pinterest board here: https://www.pinterest.com/ haleyfrostcreative/color-paletteinspiration/
YOUR WEDDING DAY
Your wedding day will move faster than you ever thought possible so don’t be afraid to steal a few precious moments for a kiss, a gentle hug, or even a high-five! Some of your favorite images will likely be from the unplanned moments of joy that radiate with the love you share for each other.
BE AUTHENTIC
Be goofy, be weird, be lovey-dovey, be you. I am always told by couples that they are awkward in front of the camera but don’t listen to that self doubt. You’ll do great. With a little direction, and a few good prompts- you’ll be well on your way to some gorgeous photos. Just be yourselves and I’ll do the rest.
IF SOMETHING IS IMPORTANT TO YOU, IT’S IMPORTANT TO ME
Sometimes the little things, that might not be as visible to others, are some of the most important things to you. It might be your great grandmother’s hanky, your mother’s pearl earrings, or your grandfather’s cufflinkswhatever it is, let me know about it. I’d love to document it for you.
DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF
I will say this over and over again- something will go wrong on your wedding day but don’t sweat the small stuff. At the end of the day, you are the greatest gift to each other and everyone is there to celebrate you, support you, and to show you how much they care.
WEDDING DAY TIPS
• Have details in a box ready to go the night before.
• Make sure the family + wedding party know the schedule.
TESTIMONIAL
“
We hired Haley to shoot our wedding and it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. I could not recommend Haley enough! She went so above and beyond to make sure that everything was perfect and just how we wanted it. She ensured we got everything we wanted and more. She really listens to you and genuinely wants to make sure that your pictures are perfect. We received so many compliments from our bridal party about how great she was to work with and how comfortable she made everyone feel.
-
ALEXIS D.
”
THE LUXE COLLECTION
$3900
The Luxe is the most comprehensive collection and includes a timeframe that easily captures the entire wedding day. Here’s the collection breakdown:
10 HOURS OF WEDDING COVERAGE
STYLIZED EDITING
ONLINE GALLERY
HI-RES DIGITAL DOWNLOADS
PRINT RELEASE
*COLLECTION INCLUDES ENGAGEMENT SESSION
THE COMFORT COLLECTION
$3600
The Comfort is my most popular collection, and is a simpler version of the Luxe. It’s great for most timelines. The total coverage time goes down from 10 hours to 8 hours. Here’s the collection breakdown:
8 HOURS OF WEDDING COVERAGE
STYLIZED EDITING
ONLINE GALLERY
HI-RES DIGITAL DOWNLOADS
PRINT RELEASE
*COLLECTION INCLUDES ENGAGEMENT SESSION
THE BASIC COLLECTION
$3300
Perfect for an elopement, the Basic gives you just enough coverage to capture all the special moments. It does not include a second shooter or stylized editing, and total coverage goes down from 8 hours to 6 hours. Here’s the collection breakdown:
6 HOURS OF WEDDING COVERAGE
SIMPLE EDITING
ONLINE GALLERY
HI-RES DIGITAL DOWNLOADS
PRINT RELEASE
*COLLECTION INCLUDES ENGAGEMENT SESSION
SECOND SHOOTER
THE ADD-ONS
A LA CARTE
ADDITIONAL HOUR(S) OF COVERAGE (BEYOND PACKAGE RATE)
STYLIZED PHOTO EDITING
PHOTO BOOTH
ENGAGEMENT SESSION ONLY*
*INCLUDES 1 HOUR PHOTO SESSION, STYLIZED EDITING, UP TO TWO OUTFITS, UP TO 2 LOCATIONS, ONLINE GALLERY, AND HI-RES DOWNLOADS.
PHOTO BOOTH
$300
$300/HOUR
$300
$300/1HR, $500/2 HRS
$400
Your guests (of all ages) will love it...and so will you! Besides being a fun source of entertainment at your reception, a photo booth is a great way to capture fun, candid pictures of you and your guests that will make you smile for years to come.
SECOND SHOOTERS
One of the biggest misconceptions about wedding photography is the notion that you HAVE to have a second shooter. I’ve heard this same sentiment from many of the couples I meet with and, when asked why they feel strongly that they need one, many simply reply with “I was told that I needed one”. There’s so much more to it than that- so let’s take a look at the pros and cons of having a second shooter so you can make an informed decision for yourself. But first, let me explain my shooting style...
MY SHOOTING STYLE
Over the past year, I’ve adapted the way I carry my equipment so I have the capacity to carry a second camera + lens setup with me at all times (check out that dorky photo to the right!). This gives me an incredible amout of control and speed to capture a wider variety of images -many of which would normally be captured by a second shooter.
This change gives me the confidence to offer collections that don’t force couples into paying for a second shooter they don’t actually need.
PROS : If you’re having a large wedding, or you’re working with a tighter timeline, a second shooters can help alleviate stress
during the parts of your wedding where photos feel most congested -for example: wedding party portraits, getting ready photos (for both bride + groom). During other segments of your day, a second shooter is generally capturing other angles or capturing candids. If candids are more your thing, you should consider having a second shooter along!
CONS : During the segments of time that we’re all shooting together, such as: bridal portraits, bride + groom portraits, wedding party group photos, and family photos, the second shooter is often capturing content that’s repetative.
Having a second shooter can sometimes add additional complexities to a wedding timeline as parts of the day (like what I’ve mentioned above in thre ‘Pros’ section) are divided and conquered. This can add a bit of tension and stress to your wedding if timelines are delayed or rushed.
STYLIZED PHOTO EDITING
THE MAGIC + MY STYLE
My style can be defined as bright, modern, and vibrant- some might call it light and airy with a bit of a punch. Either way, it’s what gives my images their signature look. I take tremendous pride in my editing so as to preserve the natural beauty of your day- with subtle adjustments to bring out the timeless aesthetic.
FAQ: DO YOU DO BLEMISH REMOVAL?
No, I find that with my editing style, blemish visibility is substantially reduced and removal is unnecessary.
FAQ: DO YOU DELIVER RAW FILES?
No, I only deliver high-quality, fully edited, JPG formatted images. The additional editing of my images is strictly prohibited unless explicit consent is given in writing.
TESTIMONIAL
“
You are so incredibly talented and I’m so grateful you shared your gift with Cooper and I. You captured our day so perfectly. I’m so glad our paths crossed! I can’t say thank you enough for these gorgeous memories :)
-
DANIELLE S.
THE BOOKING PROCESS
HOW DOES IT WORK?
First, I like to meet with my potential clients face-to-face for a beer (or through a video call!) to make sure we’re a good fit for each other and that the vision of your wedding aligns with the collections I offer.
After our initial meeting, if you decide to move forward with the booking process (YAY!), I’ll prepare the paperwork and send it over. Everything happens digitally so it’s easier to keep track of for both of us.
Once you have accepted the contract, the retainer is due. The retainer is 50% of the total collection you’re booking and it is non-refundable.
TL;DR
• A 50% non-refundable retainer is due at the time of booking to secure your wedding date.
• All paperwork is done digitally.
• The retainer may be paid online or by check.
WHAT’S NEXT AFTER BOOKING?
After I’ve received the retainer, we will officially schedule your engagement session (woohoo!) and begin thinking through your wedding timeline.
Please note: All timeline details must be finalized one week (7 days) before the wedding.
FAQ: WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU GET AN INQUIRY FOR THE SAME DATE?
When an inquiry is made, the couple has first priority for up to 10-days. If at any point during that period, another inquiry comes in for the same date, I notify the first couple right away. If they haven’t made a decision priority will shift to the second inquiry.
I always do my best to communicate with everyone so we’re all on the same page.
GETTING READY DETAILS
BE STILL MY HEART
Details are one of my favorite things. When I arrive, I’ll introduce myself and quickly gather all of your details to start photographing them.
I can’t stress enough how helpful it is to have these details ready to go right away.
I suggest keeping everything in a little box, or a small craft tote, and having one bridesmaid that is in charge of making sure everything is ready and that it all makes it to the final destination once photos are finished.
Don’t forget about your flowers! Have your flowers (and any extra leftover stems or greenery) delivered to the same location that you’re getting ready photos will take place. That ensures you’ll have them for detail shots and your first look.
WEDDING DAY TIPS
• Have details in a box ready to go the night before
• Make sure you both have your rings on for the first look
• Bring a wooden hanger for your dress
Make sure to tidy up the getting ready space before photos start
• Have dresses out of the bags and hung before photos start
BRIDE DETAIL CHECKLIST
• Bride’s Dress
• Bridesmaids Dresses
• Flower Girl Dress
• Wooden Hangers Shoes
• Jewelry
• Rings
• Ring box (velvet)
• Perfume bottle
• Veil
• Bouquets
• All Stationery
Extra flower stems
• Letter to Groom
• Heirloom Keepsakes
GROOM DETAIL CHECKLIST
• Tie/ bow tie
• Cufflinks
• Belt Shoes
• Letter to Bride
THE FIRST LOOK
SHOULD WE DO A FIRST LOOK?
Absolutely! First looks are a modern twist on an old tradition. Most people opt for the first look because it’s the one chance during your wedding day to really be alone with your partner, uninterrupted. This private time is shared between you both and I simply document it. FIrst looks also provide a smooth segue into the remaining portraits before the ceremony- giving us a great timeline structure.
WHAT HAPPENS IF WE DON’T DO A FIRST LOOK?
The way we build our timeline gets heavily impacted as our ability to quickly cyle through portraits before the ceremony is lost. Preceremony time moves a bit slower as there’s less to photograph, while post-ceremony is very rushed.
Of course, it’s still very possible to create a successful timeline without the first look- it just takes a little extra creativity. This timeline option, in general, is more fragile.
CAN I DO A FIRST LOOK WITH MY FATHER?
Yes, of course! This type of first look only takes about 10 minutes.
FIRST LOOK TIPS
• Have your rings on before the first look.
• Have the groom’s boutonniere on before the first look.
• If you do a first look with your father, be sure he knows what time to be dressed by.
BRIDE + GROOM PORTRAITS
BE AUTHENTIC
I strive for authenticity because that’s what makes for the best memories and the most real moments. Whether you’re a couple of goofs or full-blown romantics, I want to stress the importance of being yourself during your wedding day so I can capture and preserve the love you have for each other as accurately as possible.
Feeling uneasy about being in front of the camera? Don’t worry, everyone does. That’s why I’ve invested so much time and energy into learning how to direct couples into simple, beautiful portraits that look stunning and effortless.
During Bride + Groom portraits, I’ll guide you through some directed poses and capture some relaxed candids along the way.
FIRST LOOK TIPS
• Have your rings on before bride + groom portraits begin.
Have the groom’s boutonniere on before bride and groom portraits begin.
• Remember, this is about capturing real, authentic moments between you and your spouse. Let your love shine!
BRIDAL PARTY PORTRAITS
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Bridal party portraits usually take around 4560 minutes and consist of individuals with each bridesmaid + groomsmen, portraits of bridesmaids and groomsmen in two groups, and lastly the collective group as a whole. Most importantly, though, it’s your time to have some fun with your tribe. Plus- who doesn’t love a good candid photo. ;)
WHEN SHOULD THEY BE READY
BY?
You’ll want to be sure that all bridesmaids and groomsmen are ready at least an hour before photos start. If we’re ahead of schedule, we’ll keep pushing forward so photos may happen a little earlier than scheduled.
BRIDAL PORTRAIT TIPS
• Have all boutonnieres on before bridal party portraits.
• Print a small schedule for each bridesmaid and groomsmen and give it to them at the groom’s supper.
• Make sure your flowers are delivered to the location you’re getting ready. That way, you’ll be sure everyone has their flowers
• HAVE FUN!
MY FAVORITE DAY
YOUR GALLERY
Gallery delivery day is probably my favorite day ever. It’s the culmination of weeks of editing, months of planning, and years of training. When the time comes for me to deliver your images, I’m beaming with excitement because I know you’ll be reliving your wedding day, one precious moment at a time.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Your gallery will be delivered via an emailed link to a neatly organized website that hosts your photos digitally. That link can be shared with anyone (parents, grandparents, great aunt Sue, you name it!) and anyone who has the link can download your photos and order prints. This means you’ll never have to take print orders for family memebers as they can quickly and effortlessly order prints themselves with the easy-to-use interface.
DO YOU OFFER A PRINT RELEASE?
Hell yes. I’m really passionate about providing my clients with the best that I can offer- and that includes giving them the tools to do things their way. The print release that comes
with every collection includes the right to print your images where you see fit!
CAN I ORDER PRINTS THROUGH YOU?
Of course! I work with an incredible lab to produce the highest quality prints possible and I offer them to you at a reduced rate. I LOVE when people print their images and hang them up in their home.
GALLERY TIPS
• Download your photos right away for safekeeping.
• Your images are backed up for at least 1 year online.
Your gallery will be divided by pivotal moments in your day like: ‘getting ready’ and ‘ceremony’.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: HOW DOES THE BOOKING PROCESS WORK?
A: To secure your wedding date, a nonrefundable retainer of 50% is due at the time of booking. The final 50% of your payment is due one week (7 days) prior to the wedding date. Custom payment options are available.
Q: AFTER BOOKING, WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?
A: After I’ve received the 50% retainer, we will officially schedule the engagement session (yay!) and begin thinking through your wedding timeline. Please note: All timeline details must be finalized one week (7 days) before the wedding.
Q: DO YOU TRAVEL FOR ENGAGEMENTS AND WEDDINGS?
A: Travel outside of the Fargo / Moorhead area is subject to a mileage fee of $.70/mile. Any travel over 100 miles may require overnight accommodations (which must be booked + paid for by the couple).
Q: HOW MANY PHOTOS DO I GET IN MY GALLERY?
Engagement session galleries can range from approximately 50-75 images. Wedding galleries can range from approximately 750-1250 images (and will heavily depend on how many small details you want me to capture, the total amount of coverage time, and your package).
Q: WHEN CAN I EXPECT MY IMAGES?
A: Engagement sessions galleries are delivered within 4 weeks and wedding photo galleries are delivered within 8 weeks.
Q: HOW WILL MY IMAGES BE DELIVERED?
A: High-res images will be delivered via online gallery. Note: You are responsible for backing up your own images using a digital media storage device.
Q: HOW CAN I ORDER PRINTS?
A: Option 1: You can easily download images from the online gallery, and upload them to your photo printer of choice (i.e. Minted).
Option 2: Anyone with the link (parents, grandparents) can order prints via the online gallery by clicking on an image, choosing the preferred size, and selecting the quantity. Once all images have been selected, simply check out and I will take care of the rest (and ship them directly to whoever made the order)!
Note: Images ordered via online gallery are printed at cost at a trustworthy, high-quality printer.
TESTIMONIAL
Haley was an absolute joy to work with! Not only is she down to earth and fun to be around, she takes absolutely beautiful photos! She helped my husband and I feel so comfortable in front of the camera and gave us photos we can cherish for years to come. I highly recommend her!
“ ”
- MELISSA H.
