Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. One detail that often gets overlooked is prep for your wedding party for photos and videos in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Having everyone ready ensures the day goes smoothly and your memories look picture-perfect. Let’s dive into how to prepare your wedding party and make those photos and videos truly shine.
1. Communicate Clearly and Early
Make sure your wedding party knows the plan well in advance. Share the schedule, including when and where they need to be for photos and videos.
A group text or shared calendar can help keep everyone on the same page. A quick reminder the night before ensures no one forgets key details.
Your photographer and videographer may have specific instructions, so pass those along. Clear communication makes everything go smoothly.
2. Choose the Best Spartanburg Photo Locations
Spartanburg has no shortage of beautiful places for wedding photos. Whether you want a nature-filled setting or an urban backdrop, here are some of the best options:
- Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve – A stunning, lush setting with greenery and flowers.
- Barnet Park – A great mix of city and nature with open green spaces.
- Morgan Square – Downtown charm with historic buildings and city vibes.
- Glendale Shoals Preserve – A rustic, scenic location with water views and a historic bridge.
Talk to your photographer about how much time you’ll need at each spot. If multiple locations are on your list, plan travel time accordingly.
3. Dress for the Camera
Your wedding party’s outfits should complement your wedding theme while also looking great on camera. Stick to solid colors or soft patterns that won’t distract from the overall look.
Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes if you’ll be walking between locations. If it’s a winter wedding, plan for stylish coats or wraps to keep everyone warm while still looking elegant.
4. Set the Tone During the Getting-Ready Time
The energy while getting ready sets the mood for the whole day. Keep it fun and stress-free. Play music, have snacks available, and encourage your wedding party to relax and enjoy the moment.
Hiring professional hair and makeup artists? Trust their expertise. They know how to create long-lasting looks that will shine in photos and videos.
Build in extra time during prep so no one feels rushed. Running late can add unnecessary stress.
5. Keep Everyone Hydrated and Fed
A wedding day can be long, and no one wants a tired or hangry wedding party. Have plenty of water and snacks on hand.
For a local touch, grab breakfast or treats from Little River Coffee Bar or Mon Amie Morning Café. Small details like these can make the day extra special.
6. Practice a Few Group Poses
Large group photos can take time to arrange. Practicing a few poses ahead of time can speed up the process.
Your photographer will give direction, but having a few ideas ready helps. Casual walking shots, fun group hugs, and natural laughter always look amazing.
7. Be Ready for Spartanburg Weather
South Carolina weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared.
Spring and summer weddings are warm and sunny, but rain showers can pop up. Fall brings crisp air and stunning leaves. Winter weddings are cozy and romantic but may be chilly.
If your photos are outdoors, pack umbrellas, wraps, or hand warmers for colder months. Embrace the weather—it can add magic to your photos!
8. Have a Plan for Kids in the Wedding Party
If children are part of your wedding party, bring activities to keep them entertained. Small toys, snacks, and games work wonders.
Schedule their photos early in the day while they’re still in a good mood. Give them breaks as needed.
Your photographer will know how to capture the best moments without forcing them.
9. Stay Camera-Ready Throughout the Day
Your photographer and videographer will be capturing moments all day long. Encourage your wedding party to stay engaged and present.
They don’t need to pose constantly, but smiling, laughing, and being in the moment make for better photos.
For video, natural expressions and real emotions make your wedding film even more meaningful.
10. Plan for Golden Hour Photos
Golden hour—the hour before sunset—creates the best lighting for photos. The warm, soft glow is flattering on everyone.
In Spartanburg, Cottonwood Trail or Milliken Arboretum offer breathtaking golden hour backdrops. If you can, plan for a short session to take advantage of this stunning light.
11. Make a Must-Have Shot List
Talk to your photographer and videographer about must-have shots. Include family combinations, detail shots, and key moments you don’t want to miss.
For video, think about what’s most important—your vows, first look, or candid moments with your wedding party.
A shot list helps ensure everything you want is captured without missing anything.
12. Stick to the Timeline
Sticking to your timeline keeps the day flowing smoothly. Running late can cause stress and cut into your photo and video time.
Build in buffer time between major events. This helps avoid rushing and allows for unexpected delays.
13. Keep the Getting-Ready Space Clean
A clutter-free space makes for better photos and videos. Assign someone to help tidy up throughout the morning.
Clean backgrounds keep the focus on you and your wedding party.
14. Pack a Touch-Up Kit
Have a small touch-up kit handy. Include lipstick, tissues, blotting papers, a lint roller, and safety pins.
Little fixes can make a big difference in how polished everyone looks in photos.
15. Hire Local Professionals
Spartanburg has amazing wedding photographers and videographers. Working with someone who knows the area ensures you get the best results.
Local pros know the best locations, lighting conditions, and backup plans for weather changes. Trust their experience and let them guide you.
16. Be Present and Enjoy the Day
Your wedding day will go by fast. Take moments to pause and soak it all in.
Some of the best photos happen when you’re just being yourself. Laugh, hug your friends, and celebrate!
17. Stay Positive and Flexible
Even with the best planning, unexpected things can happen. If something goes off schedule, stay flexible and keep a positive attitude.
A happy, relaxed wedding party makes for the best photos and videos. Your joy will shine through in every frame.
Following these tips to prep your wedding party for photos and videos in Spartanburg will help you create a stress-free, fun, and unforgettable experience. A little planning and a positive attitude go a long way. With the right mindset, you’ll have stunning memories to cherish for years to come.
Complete Weddings + Events Spartanburg Helps You Save on Your Wedding Budget
With a solid plan and a clear understanding of your priorities, Complete Weddings + Events Spartanburg is here to help make sure you can coordinate wedding photography and videography.
Contact us today to learn more about our “book more, save more” service bundles so you and your fiancé can focus on making memories that last! For more wedding tips and tricks, visit our blog page.