Emily and Christian's wedding day was nothing short of beautiful.

These two became husband and wife on the most perfect September day-- it was partly sunny and in the 70s with a breeze that reminded us that Fall is just around the corner. When I first arrived at the Waterstone venue, I saw both Emily and Christian while they were getting ready and asked how they were. They both responded with the biggest smiles and said, "Getting a little nervous, but excited!"

Happiness just radiated between these two and their families throughout the day. We were all in tears watching Emily read Christian's letter and then again when he first saw her walk down the aisle. It's obvious from their smiles just how much these two love and adore each other.

Ever since I got into wedding photography, I’ve always been told that the very most stressful part of the day would be family formal portraits. I think that is simply because, from a couple’s perspective, you’re trying to round up family members and hope everyone cooperates, and as a photographer, you’re trying to photograph a whole group of people that you’ve mostly never met before and are trying to keep them happy before they head to the reception! It can definitely be a little stressful, but if both the couple and photographer prepare, it really can go more smoothly than expected!

Here are 5 tips that I’ve learned through the years and shooting weddings that help make family formal portraits run smoothly!

Coco and Sam were married on one of the most beautiful Summer days at one of my favorite venues in East Tennessee, The Waterstone! It might have been slightly warm and humid, but at least we made it through without any rain— and I’ll take that! They had originally planned to get married the first week of June, but like many couples, had to reschedule to late July thanks to the Covid pandemic and state regulations. Thankfully, orders lifted little by little and along with precautions, we were all able to gather and celebrate their amazing day!