All things Fall

The weather has been getting so much nicer, and I was thinking yesterday, this is the first year it was chilly (do you remember?!) in the Spring, and it's been so nice and cool these last few weeks. I'm absolutely praying for a cold November. You should know, however, that I do not like the cold. I am a warm body, who needs sunshine, and natural light, and not to have to carry a jacket, and hat, and gloves, and..., and..., and...because you know...kids (need I say more?!) I never realized this till I had my sweet littles that it would take an extra 15-20 minutes to get out the door (I'm not really a patient person either) just because of coats and the like (we lived farther north than now and hats and gloves in addition to a coat were a must). But it was so insanely hot this summer that the way I see it, a frigid fall balances all that, don't you think?

Now that it has cooled off, there are all kinds of occasions that kick off. Pumpkin patches and corn mazes, fairs and festivals. Harvesting the crops is a big deal down here, and it certainly brings reason to celebrate. Plus with school in full swing, trying to create memories with the family becomes important going in to the holidays, and fall just seems to be the perfect time to get in the spirit of the season, because by the time February rolls around and you remember that you have 30 valentines to pick up, and get your kid to sign and delivered to school, everyone is pretty much ready for the school year to be over and to just hang out again. I had the honor and pleasure of photographing the Plains Peanut Festival this year. It was a blast! Look for it next September 4th Saturday! You won't want to miss it!!! And when I tell you that I love my job, it is no joke! Plus, I learned some things I didn't know before and if you know me, you know that learning is pretty high on my list of valuable ventures.

Not only do the festivities kick off for friends and family, but couples tie the knot, because ya know - standing in stuffy dresses and suits in what might as well be 100 degrees just isn't everyone's cup of tea. Fall weddings are beautiful...dreamy warm colors provided by nature itself both in backdrop and in decor, wanting to get cozy just because of the nip in the air, a menu that is exceptionally tasty just because fall lends itself to a sophisticated layer of flavors and fullness, and when the drinks go down, they warm everyone up and get the party going!

When getting married in the fall, there are some things to consider when it comes to your wedding photos.

First of all, the weather is going to be unpredictable. In years past, October has been just as hot as June, but this year it's cool. When you get everyone together for photos, people aren't going to be moving around as much and the only ones who are really going to be truly thankful are the menfolk. With a few exceptions, all the lovely ladies in your wedding party, and your wedding guests are going to get cold. And cold wears out the will when it comes to getting your perfect photos.

There are a few solutions to this problem:

• You could get married when it's warmer, but then it could get hot, right? And that could be a bummer, especially if you had your heart set on a fall wedding.

• You could time your ceremony for early afternoon so that when the reception comes along, the temperature isn't so cool.

• You could set up indoors for both the ceremony and for the reception. This way, you and your guests enjoy a consistent temperature.

• Get creative with styling your dress and your bridesmaids dresses. A beautiful shawl could wrap your shoulders in warmth and if you are going for a modest look but love a sweetheart neckline, a shawl could open up a world of opportunities, as well as communicate your style. It could be faux fur, lace, or a pretty knit. Sleeves (which are all the rage right now) are another option. There are poofy sleeves, smooth sleeves, etc., or you could go with gloves that go above your elbows. For that matter, depending on your style, you could go 1950s classic and wear gloves and a hat (this would be my personal favorite).

Of all these options, the one that makes the most sense is the one that makes you and your guests comfortable. Take a poll in your planning stages to see what preferences your guests, or even better your wedding party has. They'll be more involved in the photos than your guests, and there are fewer opinions to juggle, plus they have a vested interest in your interests: they're your wedding party.

Whatever details you choose to combat the chill, your photographer can use these for some beautiful detail photos that really express who you are as a bride and show the beauty of the occasion.

Something that is paramount to give your attention to when considering your wedding photos is the lighting of your venue. Photo literally means light. A venue that limits light means that your photographer is going to have to use other means to provide the necessary light for photos, and depending on the look you're going for in your photos, that could be a good thing or bad thing. Light and airy photos certainly need light, but moodier photos may not. Make sure you discuss this with both your photographer and your venue so that you get what you are paying for in the long run. Your photos will long outlast your venue, so go with what you really want.

I hope you continue to enjoy this beautiful weather! Get out and pick up a pumpkin, get lost in a corn maze, and if you are getting married in the fall, I hope these few tips help you when planning your wedding. If you would like some more information stay tuned! Fill out the form at the bottom of this page, and don't just get a good look at how I can serve you, but reach out to book, and I'll be in touch real soon!

Rachel Jackson

Greatbyfaith Photography

racheljackson@greatbyfaithphotography.net