One of the biggest questions I get from newly engaged brides is:
"How far in advance should we book our wedding photographer? If you're planning a North Carolina wedding (or anywhere else, really), here's my honest advice: book your photographer about a year in advance.
As someone who’s photographed dozens of weddings across North Carolina and East Tennessee, I’ve seen firsthand how early planning pays off—especially when you're looking for timeless, true-to-color photography that tells your story beautifully.
Why 12 Months is the Sweet Spot
A year gives you the best chance of locking in the photographer you really want, not just the one that's still available.
Wedding photographers (especially ones with a specific style or personality that you connect with) often book up fast—12 to 18 months in advance. This is especially true for those popular fall wedding dates in the Carolinas.
So if you're dreaming of golden leaves in October or a soft spring garden wedding in April, it's worth getting that vendor reserved early.
Couples who book with me early often say it was one of their best decisions made while wedding planning. They not only get peace of mind but also a partner who’s truly invested in capturing their day with care and creativity.
What Booking Early Gets You
- Peace of mind. Who you choose as a wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions that you'll make while wedding planning. Checking that off your list early will feel so good!
- More time for your engagement session. If your photographer offers a complimentary engagement session like I do then you'll have plenty of time and flexibility to schedule that session. Ensuring that your engagement photos fit the season, style, and location you desire, and are delivered with ample time to be used on your wedding invitations and website.
- Connection with your photographer. You'll build trust and a relationship with the one vendor who will be with you more than anyone else on your wedding day.
By booking me early, we’ll have plenty of time to get to know each other, plan your engagement session around your vision, and create a photography experience that feels seamless and fun!
Can I Book Later Than That?
Absolutely! I often book weddings 3, 6, and even 9 months out quite often. But the more flexible you are with dates and packages, the better. Weekend dates book up fastest so I recommend going with a weekday wedding, elopement, or winter celebration if you are looking to book vendors last minute.
If your date is coming up quickly, don’t worry, reach out anyway! I often have last-minute openings and can customize a package that works for your timeline and vision.
When Should You Book?
If you have already secured a venue and wedding date, then now is the perfect time to reach out to your dream photographer. Even if your wedding is a year or more away, it's not too early.
Whether you're getting married in Charlotte, Asheville, Winston-Salem, or East Tennessee, I'd love to learn more about your day and help tell your unique story in a way that feels authentic, true-to-color, and reflects you.
Engaged?
If you're recently engaged or planning a wedding in North Carolina, I'd love to hear from you! Let's discuss your vision, your venue, and how I can best support you on one of the most meaningful days of your life.