You’re Engaged — Now What?
Your journey to an elegant, artfully curated celebration begins here.
Congratulations — you’re engaged! Before diving into the planning process, take a moment to pause, celebrate, and savor this new chapter. Your engagement marks the start of an unforgettable story — one that deserves to be planned with artistry, intention, and romance.
As a fine art wedding photographer, I’ve seen how extraordinary celebrations unfold when couples begin with a clear vision. Whether your dream is to say I do in a French château, an Italian garden, or a timeless East Coast estate, this guide will help you design a day as refined and romantic as your love story.
Define Your Vision and Guest Experience
Every exquisite wedding begins with a vision. Decide who you wish to celebrate with — an intimate gathering of your dearest loved ones or a grand destination affair. Your guest list will guide the tone and flow of your day.
Then, dream beyond the details:
Italian Villa Romance: Olive trees, soft pastels, and sunset prosecco toasts.
Coastal Elegance: Ocean breezes, candlelight, and serene modern design.
Parisian Château Soirée: Old-world charm and couture sophistication.
Countryside Chic: Organic textures, lush greenery, and heartfelt simplicity.
Once your vision takes shape, choose your wedding date — the foundation for securing your venue and vendors.
Selecting a Venue with Timeless Elegance
Your venue is the canvas for your entire celebration — the stage where every image, laugh, and memory unfolds.
For couples seeking refined elegance and romantic allure, choose a location that aligns with your fine art aesthetic: think private villas, garden estates, and historic properties.
Pro Tip: Always ask, “What is your rain plan?”
A thoughtful venue provides seamless alternatives for every weather possibility — ensuring beauty, comfort, and continuity no matter the forecast.
Planner vs. Day-of Coordinator — The Perfect Balance
A wedding planner curates the entire creative experience. They collaborate with top-tier vendors, refine your vision, and bring every elegant element to life with ease and precision.
A day-of coordinator, however, ensures flawless execution — overseeing logistics, managing timelines, and orchestrating every behind-the-scenes detail so you can fully immerse in your celebration.
From my experience as a destination wedding photographer, a day-of coordinator is essential. Their expertise allows every vendor to focus solely on their craft, ensuring your wedding day is seamless and stress-free.
Entertainment that Elevates the Experience
Music defines mood — from the moment guests arrive to the final dance. Whether you choose a live band or a DJ, your entertainment should reflect the energy and emotion of your celebration.
I recommend reviewing portfolios, attending live showcases, and asking trusted vendors for recommendations. I maintain a curated list of exceptional entertainers who elevate every event with sophistication and style that is sent out to every one of my couples.
Choosing Your Photographer & Videographer
Your imagery is your heirloom — the visual legacy of your love story. When choosing an artful wedding photographer, seek someone whose work embodies emotion, light, creativity, and timeless romance.
View full galleries, not just social media highlights, to ensure artistic consistency and depth.
For a relaxed experience, invest in full-day coverage. This allows your story to unfold naturally — from quiet morning moments to your candlelit reception.
At Anna Aleksandrovna Photography, my approach blends editorial artistry with authentic emotion — crafting imagery that feels effortless, cinematic, and deeply personal.
Floral Design & Décor — Create with Intention
Luxury lies not in excess, but in harmony. Choose florals and décor that are personal, meaningful, and designed with intent.
Perhaps your arrangements include flowers from your engagement trip, or your tablescape reflects your shared love of European elegance. Every element should feel like a reflection of your story — refined, cohesive, and emotionally resonant. Not a simple collection of what’s trending.
Culinary Artistry — A Feast for the Senses
Your menu is an experience in itself. Opt for cuisine that complements your overall aesthetic and delights your guests, after all, the food served at a wedding is often the most memorable part.
For black-tie soirées: multi-course fine dining with sommelier-selected pairings.
For destination weddings: local delicacies that celebrate the culture and setting.
Whenever possible, schedule a tasting to ensure every dish matches your vision of quality and sophistication.
Beauty & Styling — Your Signature Look
On your wedding morning, surround yourself with artists who understand your personal style and can bring it to life with grace.
Schedule pre-wedding hair and makeup trials to refine your look and plan your timeline to ensure you feel serene, radiant, and camera-ready.
A professional stylist can curate your ensemble — from couture gown to delicate jewelry — creating a cohesive, editorially inspired aesthetic that photographs beautifully.
The Art of Intentional Celebration
Planning your wedding is an art — a balance of design, emotion, and meaning. Whether you’re envisioning a grand European celebration or an intimate East Coast affair, every choice should reflect your love story with intention and grace.
At Anna Aleksandrovna Photography, my passion is to capture that elegance — transforming fleeting moments into timeless, romantic imagery that will be cherished for generations.
