Jun

Life with Dad

From the time I was born until I started the 5th grade, we moved around a lot. Though I was born in the nun-run Mercy Hospital in Jourdanton, Texas in 1969, the next 11 years consisted of a lot of moving, starting each school year in a different state and near a lot of different government job sites. In 11 years, he packed us up and moved us near 11 times:

Jourdanton, TX–>San Antonio, TX–>Jefferson City, MO–>Kaw City, Ok–>Leming, Tx–>Tuscumbia, MO–>Wichita Falls, TX (short stay)–>Jourdanton, TX–>New Kirk, OK–>Home! I can still remember our last address before we came home for good: 316 North Walnut, New Kirk, OK 74647!

And he taught me to love a lot of things:

road trips
the smell of dirt
burnt diesel
ingenuity
grease beneath his fingernails
the warning sound heavy equipment makes when it backs up
drinking ice cold water out of an old milk gallon
the heat of the day
Molasses and potted meat (no, not together)
fast driving, lead feet and fishtails
red shop towels
the outdoors
all things spicy
HIM!

By the time I was five, I could differentiate between bulldozers, front-end loaders, scrapers and dump trucks, and by age 10 I learned to steer a bulldozer with either the foot or hand levers. My dad cleaned up after tornadoes, helped construct man-made lakes and dams, piled up trees to be milled, and in his own words, “moved mountains.” I spent a lot of hours on his lap or on the armrest just watching him move the earth. That’s deep. Every girl dreams of finding a man to move the Earth for her, and though I’ve looked, I’ve always had one in my life. My daddy.

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Happy Father’s Day, Dad! And if you didn’t get a chance to see last year’s post, here it is.

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I am a San Antonio-based wedding and senior photographer who started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. As one of the up-and-coming San Antonio wedding photographers, I am also available to shoot in Austin, Houston and Dallas and the surrounding areas. I am also available for destination weddings. Ata-Girl Photography Co. offers an amazing San Antonio wedding photography service that you won’t soon forget. As a San Antonio wedding photographer, my sole purpose is to treat your San Antonio wedding like a regal event.

In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

I am a professional photographer who enjoys documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I enjoy watching my daughter play softball, hiking, cycling, reading, and listening to Elvis!

The post, Life with Dad, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

Jun

Tennis Anyone?

I love me some JoJo! Jo Ann and I go way back… to junior high school—some 30 years ago if you’ve got your counting fingers extended! Jo Ann is one of the most genuine, caring, and spiritual people I know. I am blessed beyond belief to have her and her family in my life and even more so to have the privilege of calling her my friend.

[pullquote style=”left” quote=”dark”]No distance of place or lapse of time can lessen the friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each other’s worth. ~Robert Southey[/pullquote]

In junior high, we were inseperable—so much in fact, that our coach nicknamed us the Bobsie Twins. Many a day, I stayed way late after school, oftentimes lying to my parents about a practice, game or tournament, just so that I could hang out with Jo Ann and play Miss Pac-Man at the ice store. On rare occasions, when we could beg, borrow or steal… no, we never stole money… we’d enjoy pints of Blue Bell ice cream. Cookies ‘n Cream was our go to! We gave each other haircuts, learned to emulate bird whistles, and swapped lunches on school field trips. She loved my mom’s ham sandwiches and I loved her mom’s re-fried bean tacos! Switching sack lunches was a real treat because neither of us particularly enjoyed what was in our own bags. We got to eat that every day… so we’d trade!

Like me, Jo Ann enjoyed playing youth sports which kept both of us out of a lot of trouble. This past weekend, Jo Ann played in a tennis tournament in San Antonio. Jo Ann lives about four hours away and we don’t get to see each other often. Even though her match started at 8 am, I made the trek to San Antonio to watch her kick some booty on the court. Ladies and gentlemen, she still has it!

Jo Ann excels at every sport and especially tennis. She competes each Sunday in a 9.0 mixed doubles league. She and her teammate, Peter, won their city division in order to advance to this state-level tournament. In the end, advancing to the national tournament in Hawaii depended on the Dallas team losing their last match. And, that didn’t happen. So, the Mason Creek 9.0 placed second at state. And that, my friend, is nothing to balk at.

I’m positive Jo Ann has a lot of LOVE, ACES and ANDVANTAGES left in her! I am happy that Jo Ann still swings a racket after all these years. I just wished we lived closer together! And, I wish we had known each other since kindergarten. And, I also wish she’d taught me to play tennis. <3

**Source: UNIVERSAL 9 AND 10: These players are among the best players in an area. Junior players at these levels are highly likely to play U.S. Collegiate Division 1 NCAA tennis. Junior girls will be among the top players nationally. Adults at this level may maintain this standard into his or her fifties if they are sufficiently motivated. These are very talented individuals. Females at this level will be very accomplished. These players are often motivated by the “love of the game”.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, Tennis Anyone?, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

Jun

Finding the Perfect Wedding Venue

San Antonio Wedding Photographers

To find the perfect wedding venue, you should start looking at least one year in advance of your special day according to this wedding planning timeline. Popular venues will book up quickly. If you have your heart set on a venue and you wait too long, you may have to compromise your wedding date. To further help you in your wedding day planning, I have put together this checklist to help you find the perfect wedding venue!

Rose Hall at the Sandy Oaks Ranch, Devine, TX

First things first! Before you ever step foot on a venue or even a venue’s website, you need to decide these four things:

What is your budget?
How many people are you inviting?
Will the ceremony be held at the same venue?
What style or theme are you going for?

After you’ve answered these four questions, you’ve narrowed down the list of possibilities to hold your wedding/reception and you’ve just reduced your mental anxiety by more than half. Now, you can use this checklist to make the final cut!

Location
The first thing you want to ensure is that the location of the venue is acceptable. Problems with the airport next door or the proximity of ample hotel rooms could pose real problems on the night of your wedding. Look for a venue that is easily accessible with plenty of nearby lodging options. Make sure there are no other logistical obstacles to overcome (ie. road construction, large annual event nearby).
Guests
How many guests can the facility accommodate? If you’re planning on having 450 guests, make sure the venue can reasonably accommodate that many people. Ask to see a seating chart or pictures of other events with the same number of guests. It may be one thing for 450 people to stand comfortably in the facility but an entirely different ball of wax when they’re seated. Everyone enjoys elbow room. Second to elbow room: make sure there are more than enough bathroom facilities!
Decor/Colors/Style
Make sure the general appearance of the venue is somewhat pleasing to your colors, theme and vision. It is unlikely that the event decorator will be able to transform a rustic, country barn into the dreamy ballroom you are expecting.
Privacy
If you are considering a larger venue, one thing you must consider is whether or not they host multiple events on the same night. If this is a possibility, be sure to inquire how the scheduling is handled. Consider how easily guests may become confused if there are two weddings or cocktail hours which begin at the same time. It would be best if the events were staggered by an hour or so to prevent the mere chance strangers may attend. Another thing to consider is whether or not the venue still allows patrons to enter during the events. Imagine having your wedding on the grounds of a winery, yet patrons are still allowed to roam about the property during the event. If this is the case, you may want to inquire about a “buy-out” option.
Sufficient Parking
Ensure that there is enough free parking for all of your anticipated guests. If parking is not free, try to negotiate a bulk rate for your evening so that your guests do not have to pay for parking.
All-Inclusive
What all is included in the rental fee? Does that include access to the kitchen and appliances… how about servers? Is there a separate service fee? Does the rental fee include the tables, chairs and linens? How about clean up? If you’re venue is in a hotel or restaurant, this may be included. But, if the venue is a garden or a park, they may not be.
Hidden Fees
Are there hidden fees? For example, some venues charge a “cake cutting fee” if you do not order your cake from their preferred vendor. This seems like a totally unreasonable and “bullying” charge… on the surface. But I’ve realized that if you do order from within, you often receive upgrades that you originally would not have (ie. plates decorated with syrup, chocolate covered strawberries). Also be sure to ask about sales tax, gratuities, and an extra charge for the champagne toast.
Deposit/Cancellation
What does the venue require for a deposit? Since the venue will be one of your largest wedding expenses, (#7 on this list of wedding expenses) do they offer a payment plan? If the unexpected should happen, what is the policy about cancelling or changing the date?

There is certainly lots to think about! You may need to add more questions to your checklist based on your own situation—like, does the venue allow pets in the ceremony or how can they accommodate someone with limited mobility? With organization and proper planning, this will be a fun process and you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot for your wedding. Happy hunting!

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Waterfall at the Woodlands Resort & Conference Center, Woodlands, TX

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, Finding the Perfect Wedding Venue, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

Jun

A Chic Country Wedding

San Antonio Wedding Photographers

After only one rescheduling, things were off to a great start! The weather cooperated ideally for this chic, country, outdoor wedding. Though they had both been married before, John and Shanna wanted a quaint but intimate affair. High school friend, Juan Gonzalez, officiated the ceremony and long-time family friend, Billy Mata, provided the music. He sat beside the outdoor altar and strummed his acoustical guitar making the affair extra special.

It was evident John waited nervously as he examined his palms looking for anything to distract him from the moment. He stood alone at the front altar and waited for his bride. Shanna was escorted down the aisle flanked by her two sons. John and Shanna said their vows as the sun slowly set on the Texas horizon.

The March wedding ended with dancing through bubbles and a shot of the moon. Shanna said she wanted a picture of the moon and how it looked on this night to remember it forever.

Click to see my complete wedding portfolio.

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san antonio senior portrait photographers ata-girl photography since 2010 I am a San Antonio-based wedding and senior photographer who started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. As one of the up-and-coming San Antonio wedding photographers, I am also available to shoot in Austin, Houston and Dallas and the surrounding areas. I am also available for destination weddings. Ata-Girl Photography Co. offers an amazing San Antonio wedding photography service that you won’t soon forget. As a San Antonio wedding photographer, my sole purpose is to treat your San Antonio wedding like a regal event.

In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, A Chic Country Wedding, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

Jun

Final Mini Senior Session

This past Saturday, this beautiful senior graduated from high school! She was an honor graduate and finished among the top of her class! Tori took advantage of my mini senior session package and we were able to document her entire final year in high school. We started this process back in November and you can take a look here, here, and here. We had a lot of fun, laughs and good times along the way. I also got to document her shiny, new, red Camaro!

Tori is an exceptional young lady and I had so much fun with her! She probably thinks I’m nuts, but either way, I will miss her smiling face this coming school year! I wish Tori only the absolute best as she enters this next chapter in her young, beautiful and exciting life!

Click to see my complete senior portfolio.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, Final Mini Senior Session, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

May

Fame & Shame #12

Here is the latest installment of Fame & Shame—a small peek into my life!

End of School: Normally, the end of the school year would mean a rise in my grocery bill. This year it means I have but one year left to enjoy my baby in high school. Then, it’s empty nest syndrome for me.
Preventative Medicine: Some appointments are just… awkward. It’s 2013, people! You’d think by now they could just run us through a scanner or use a smartphone app!
24 Hours: I could sure use more than 24 hours in a day over the next few weeks to complete this brand transition. I have this website, my online storefront, business cards, brochures, catalogs, stationery cards, return address ink stamps, newsletter template, social networking profiles and Lord knows what else to update brands on. On the bright side though, I love my new logo from Hank Marketing. Taylor IS the master!!

End of School Year: My life can slow down a bit as there won’t be as many sporting activities, organization meetings, award ceremonies and so forth. Maybe… just maybe, I can get back on my road bike.
Preventative Medicine: It saves lives.
The Great Outdoors: Without it, my mental status would be highly questionable.

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Remember. YOU’RE GORGEOUS! Until next time, be positive, be happy, be healthy, and don’t forget to be photographed.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, Fame & Shame #12, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

May

10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer

Because DSLRs have become so popular, these days everyone is a wedding photographer. With all the saturation in the industry, it is becoming increasingly difficult to choose a photographer to document your day. There is no way to tell what kind of service or products you will receive simply by comparing price points. I have put together a list of questions you should ask anyone who you are considering to photograph one of the most important days of your life. These ten questions should give you a very good start to narrowing down your wedding photographer candidates. (For you reference, I’ve also listed my answers.)

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Why are you a wedding photographer?
I am a wedding photographer because I love to capture intimate interactions between people. Family is the single most important thing in my life and the area of my life where I have suffered the most loss. Because I have “loved and lost,” I realize the value of family; I cherish family. My aim is to share my skills and passion for photography to document and preserve the love and affection shared at this important milestone for you and for generations to come. To date, I have gotten teary-eyed at every wedding I’ve photographed—including those of complete strangers.
How would you describe your wedding photography style?
I would describe my style as mostly photojournalistic with an editorial flair. Most of the day will be documented with me floating around the room, standing unobtrusively against a wall watching what takes place. I will not ask you to pose or expect you to even look at my camera. I will not ask you to say cheese. I will simply capture the day as it happens. This is the photojournalistic part. There may be an occasion or two when I ask you to just sit a second longer and continue looking into the mirror. I might ask your mother, also in the frame, to slightly turn her shoulders to the left. This is not posing but rather setting up an editorial shot. (Think newspaper: mayor with arms folded standing in front of city hall from lower perspective.)
What distinguishes your work from other photographers’ work?
First and foremost, I don’t follow photography trends. My goal is for all my work to be timeless. I want my work to be intimate, classic and to tell your story. I try to establish a personal connection with my clients. I firmly believe the absolute best way to preserve a memory is with a photograph. I’m very passionate about photography. I strive to improve my skills on a daily basis! I make it a point to read, study, look, observe, practice, absorb, listen, watch, test, or buy something related to photography every single day! I’ve been trained by the U. S. Army, served a little over four years protecting my country and did I mention I send gifts?
May I see your portfolio?
Absolutely!
Do you have a list of references?
Yes, and you may call them if you’d wish! You may start here.
How long have you been in business?
I registered Ata-Girl with the Texas County of Atascosa in 2010. Over the years, I have shot well over 1,000,000 images.
Are you insured?
Yes. If I lose your images in a fiery car crash, drop my camera off a cliff, become violently ill during your ceremony, or trip your Aunt Mary, I am covered.
Do you belong to any professional organizations? Do you attend workshops or clinics?
I recently became a member of the WPPI-Wedding & Portrait Professionals International. Each year, I attend or purchase at least two professional level workshops.
Do you have backup plans?
I have backup cameras, memory cards, batteries, and flashes. My cameras write to two separate memory cards simultaneously. This allows me to make a copy of all your precious images on site. I also have a network of backup photographers should I become ill.
How soon will I see my images?
You can expect to see images from any of your portrait sessions within 14 days. For weddings and events, expect to see them within 21 days. Guaranteed!

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Please feel free to browse my wedding portfolio or my engagement portfolio.

If there are any other questions you’d like me to answer, please feel free to email me or leave it here in the comments section! Until next time, be positive, be happy, be healthy, and don’t forget to be photographed.

**The images contained in this post were shot under the direction and for assignment of Philip Thomas Photography, LLC. The images are copyrighted by Philip Thomas Photography, LLC, but are used herein with permission.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, 10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

May

What to Expect from Your Wedding Photographer (Part II)

Earlier this week, I laid out some guidelines to help you choose a wedding photographer. The moral of the story was to not let price be the determining factor—to do some homework! After you’ve done your homework and have hired a photographer, it’s time to trust them. Wedding photography is a big investment. Make sure you get your money’s worth by following these simple tips.

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The most important thing you can do is educate your photographer. Don’t dictate what they shoot or how they shoot it! Let them do their thing! With a little guidance your photographer should be able to capture the defining moments of the day AND other special moments you won’t even witness until you view the images. Here are some things you can do to make sure your wedding images are stunning:

This should have happened before you signed an agreement, but make sure you get along with your photographer. If you and your photographer’s personalities clash, it is going to be a painful experience.
Make sure they know your story. Your photographer is an artist. They create. By telling them how you met your groom, how it was love at first sight or how he proposed, you’re painting a story in your photographer’s mind. They will take this story and want to add beauty to the canvas with your wedding day. They will feel compelled to tell your story.
Invite them to the rehearsal. It’s not a deal breaker if they can’t come, but if they are available, it will give them an opportunity to: (1) learn who the key family/friends are, (2) become recognizable to your family and wedding party, (3) recon shooting angles and possible light sources, and (4) learn the venue rules.
Identify key members of your family and closest friends. Have your Maid of Honor serve as the go-to girl on the wedding day.
Point out special wedding mementos and details that are not all the guests are privy to (Grandmother’s veil, Father’s special promise ring, special messages on the bottoms of your bridesmaids’ shoes, or the crazy socks the groomsmen are wearing, for example).
Create a timeline of the day and stick to it.
Smile.
Have fun.
Forget about every recent photography trend you have seen. This includes slanty pictures, blown out and super warm edits, frames within frames, railroad tracks, balloons, selective or saturated colors, and jumping in the air. It is crucial that your wedding images stand the test of time and are valued for generations to come. Trends are fun, but don’t last long! Hopefully, you’ve chosen a photographer with a classic shooting and editing style.

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Reduce stress for the day. Here is a short list of things not to do:

Do not give your photographer a two-page list of combinations for family photos.
Do not give your photographer a two-page list of detailed shots to capture.
Do not follow your photographer around saying, “Shoot this. Get that. This is a nice background.”
Do not let any of your relatives interfere by getting in the photographer’s way, blocking the shots or helping to pose.

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Please feel free to browse my wedding portfolio or my engagement portfolio.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

The post, What to Expect from Your Wedding Photographer, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio wedding photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. who offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

May

What to Expect from Your Wedding Photographer (Part I)

Last week, I briefly touched on choosing a photographer in two posts about planning your wedding, here and here. I recommended choosing your photographer at least 10 months prior to your wedding so that you could also take care of your engagement photos at that time. And finally, I recommended sitting down with your photographer to “educate them” about a month prior.

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When I say “educate your photographer,” I don’t mean teach them how to use a camera, or request certain angles or very specific shots. I don’t even recommend giving your photographer a requested shot list. I’ve heard nightmares about brides listing extremely detailed shots (ie. picture of the rings, on a pillow, in front of a stain glassed window, with a blurry background.) Once, I even read about a request list that asked for a shot of the groom carrying the bride into the reception hall. The photographer was unable to capture that moment because it never happened. The bride and groom walked hand-in-hand into the reception hall when they were announced. And the bride was upset at her photographer for not capturing her being carried into the reception!! That makes no sense to me.

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Once you’ve decided on a budget for a wedding photographer, start shopping. Ask for referrals. Take the time to look through their portfolios and ensure that their photography style is what you have in mind for your wedding images. Read their blog. Check their Facebook and Twitter. Call them. Set up a consultation. If you’re out-of-state, Skype them. See how committed they are to their business. Make sure their personality is one that will mesh nicely with yours. Read the testimonials and see what past clients are saying. Make an educated choice! Do your homework!

Do not, I repeat, do not choose a photographer based on cost alone. If your wedding images are important to you… If, in the future, you will look at the images and reminisce about your wedding day… If the images are something you want to cherish do not let price alone determine who will photograph your wedding. And, if that’s not enough reason, read this blog listing 10 reasons to hire a professional.

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You can continue reading this series here.

Please feel free to browse my wedding portfolio or my engagement portfolio. Until next time, be positive, be happy, be healthy, and don’t forget to be photographed.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

May

Planning for Your Wedding Day (Part II)

Last week, I chronicled what should take place during the first eight months of your wedding planning. What follows is the second half of a basic order of events to use when planning for your wedding day. Establishing the aesthetic part of your wedding is definitely the fun part. However, the wedding details can become overwhelming in a hurry. There are so many things to plan for; the coordination of all this detail can quickly take the enjoyment away if you’re not careful. So, I have put together this simple check list to refer to and keep yourself as sane as possible. Whether you’re a bride-to-be, parent, Maid of Honor, or attendee, this list will let you know what to expect and how to be better prepared. Please keep in mind, that although this checklist is based on a yearlong plan, it can be adjusted for either longer or shorter planning timelines.

2 Months Out

Mail the Invitations: Typically, wedding invitations are sent out six to eight weeks prior to the wedding ceremony.
Write & Memorize Vows: If you are writing your own vows, it’s a nice touch if you memorize them. However, don’t be afraid to make note cards for reference. There is no way how to tell how nervous you’ll actually be on your wedding day. Having a backup plan will prevent moments of awkward silence.
Purchase Day-Of Accessories: Don’t forget something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue when you’re planning what you’ll be wearing the day of your wedding. You’ll need shoes, jewelry, hairpieces, veil, and lingerie. Many brides also opt for a comfortable dress to change in for the reception and a second, even more comfortable get away outfit.
Confirm Transportation: Determine how you, the bridal party, and your families will be getting to and from the wedding location.

6 Weeks Out

Apply for Marriage License: Check your local requirements and details. Also, keep in mind some state’s marriage licenses are only valid for 30 days. If that’s the case, you’ll want to secure your license inside of that window.
Print Ceremony Incidentals: Make sure all of the wedding programs, reception programs, seating cards, menus, and nametags are printed and ready to go.

1 Month Out

Bachelorette Party: Typically, the Maid of Honor plans this with the rest of the bridesmaids. But, there isn’t a hard and fast rule as to when to plan a bachelorette party. Just find the best date that works for your bridal party.
Bridal Shower: The groom’s mother’s close friend typically hosts the bridal shower.
Photographer Instructions: I do not personally recommend giving your photographer a detailed shot list. I’ve heard nightmare stories about brides listing extremely detailed shots (ie. picture of the rings, on a pillow, in front of a stain glassed window, with a blurry background.) If you’ve hired and paid for a photographer, then I can only deduce that you like their style; therefore, you must also trust them. Giving your photographer very specific demands, like the one listed above, will add undue stress. They are there serving your best interests and they want nothing more than to document your wedding day perfectly.

What I do recommend is educating your photographer. Let them know who your extra special family members and friends are. Let me know that the black ribbons the party is wearing will represent your deceased grandmother, or that you have a special locket in your bouquet. Should your photographer have any questions during the day, have your Maid of Honor serve as the go-to girl. I provide my brides and grooms with a worksheet to document important things for the day and also to have a handy reference on the day of.

2 Weeks Out

Final Dress Fitting: It’s not only wise to start breaking in your wedding shoes at this point, it’s also a perfect time to test how your accessories will look with the dress. This will give you ample time should changes be needed.
Review Music with DJ/Band: Touch base with your band or DJ to finalize the playlist and confirm special request songs.

1 Week Out

Final Headcount: Confirm the numbers with your rental companies (chairs, tables) as well as your caterer once you have reviewed all the RSVPs.
Finalize Seating Chart: Sit friends and acquaintances together whenever possible. It will make your guests feel more comfortable and have a better time.

48 Hours Before

Nail Appointment: You will want your manicure and pedicure as fresh as possible.
Spray Tan: If bronzed skin is important to you, get an airbrush spray tan. Tanning beds are not worth any of the risks associated with them.
Wrap Party Gifts: Do not wait until the last minute to wrap the gifts for the groomsmen and brides maids.

Day Before

Rehearsal Dinner: Enjoy!
Bridal Party Gifts: Typically, gifts are given the day before the wedding especially if the gift is something that can be worn during the ceremony.

Day Of Magic!

Live happily ever after! There is no such thing as a perfect wedding. Remember to enjoy the moment. After all, it’s your moment. It flies by, so try to remember to breathe, soak it all in and have fun!

Please feel free to browse my wedding portfolio or my engagement portfolio.

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In addition to wedding photography, I also specialize in San Antonio senior portraits and senior portraits for high school seniors in my local surrounding areas.

This post first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please enjoy this San Antonio senior photography provided by Tammy Blalock and Ata-Girl Photography Co. Ata-Girl Photography Co. also offers superb San Antonio wedding photography in the San Antonio metro and surrounding area and strives to be one of the finest San Antonio wedding photographers.

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Hi, I’m Tammy.
I'm a San Antonio-based wedding photographer for outdoor-loving couples who value real moments.

I am a San Antonio-based wedding photographer and I am absolutely in love with capturing the kinds of weddings where there are more hugs than handshakes, the dance floor rumbles all night long, and chairs are pretty much rendered useless after dinner. Whiskey bottles are passed around, most of the wedding party has been best-best friends since kindergarten, Grams is likely to lose her shoes and your partner is much more emotional than you are. These kinds of weddings are my jam!

Since 2010, I have excelled in helping each of my couples plan for one of the very best days of their lives! I’d love to share my very personalized wedding experience, my super-human organizational abilities, and my U. S. Army combat skills (when needed) with you too.

I want your wedding day to be as perfect as you do! I am all in with my whole heart!