Maine & NH Wedding Photographer // Get the Fam Involved – Because This Day Is About More Than Just You Two (Kind of)

Listen, your wedding day is 100% about you and your person. But it’s also about all the people who raised you, supported you, and tolerated your teenage angst without completely disowning you. So while you’re out here planning the color palette and your signature cocktail (which better have a fun name, btw), don’t forget about the fam. They want to feel included too.

And no, I’m not saying you need to hand them the reins (please don’t), but there are some sweet ways to involve your parents and siblings that’ll make *them* feel like rockstars without turning your day into a group project.

Let Mom Help You Get Dressed (Even If You’re Fully Capable)

Could you button your own dress or zip it up in 3 seconds? Sure. But letting your mom do it for you is more than just logistics—it’s a moment. It’s nostalgia. It’s the stuff that hits you right in the feels when you see the photos later.

Let her fuss over you a little. Let her cry a lot. Let her be part of that calm-before-the-storm moment in a way that feels personal. Bonus points if you hand her a tissue before she needs it. That’s pro-level thoughtfulness.

First Look with Dad = Guaranteed Waterworks

I have never seen a first look with a dad that didn’t make someone cry. Dads always try to act tough and then completely melt the second they see you all dressed up.

It’s one of those moments that hits different. You’ve been their kid your whole life, and now you’re stepping into a new chapter. Give them their moment. I promise it’s worth it (and the photos are always straight-up heart-melters).

Let Dad Help the Groom Too

We’re not just out here giving all the sentimental moments to the bride’s side. Let Dad show the groom how to tie his tie, or pin the boutonniere. It’s such a small thing, but it becomes a memory—one of those things you remember years from now when you’re trying to teach your kid how to tie a tie for the first time.

Dances Don’t Have to Be Traditional. They Just Have to Be You

Who says it has to be just the bride and dad or the groom and mom? Bring in both your parents. Do a dance with your stepmom, or let your mom join halfway through your dad dance. Make it a moment that includes the people who raised you, whoever they are.

Or make it fun—one of my couples danced with their parents to “Uptown Funk,” and it was a whole vibe. Formality is optional. Joy is not.

Let Your Siblings Play a Bigger Role

If you're super close with your siblings, why not ask them to walk you down the aisle? Or help with your veil, tie, or shoes? Let them hype you up with mimosas and music while you’re getting ready. Put your sister in the getting-ready crew and let her have the full hair-and-makeup experience too.

Involving them gives the day even more meaning—and let’s be honest, they’ll totally brag about it later.

The Whole Day Feels Better When It Feels Like Family

At the end of the day, your wedding isn’t just a celebration of your love—it’s a celebration of the people who got you here. Let them be part of it. Not in a “tell you how to plan everything” kind of way, but in a “show up, love you hard, and be part of the joy” kind of way.

When your family feels included, supported, and seen—it shows. The energy is different. The day feels warmer, calmer, more connected. And isn’t that the kind of wedding we’re all aiming for?

So yeah, this day is about you. But letting the people who love you most share a little spotlight? That’s what makes it unforgettable.

Let the happy tears roll. I’ll be there to catch every single one on camera.