the wedding guide
for all cat alkire photography couples
Welcome
A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE
I’m beyond excited to walk alongside you in this season, and I can’t wait to get to know you better in the months ahead. Choosing your wedding photographer is a big decision — and an important investment — and I’m truly honored that you’ve trusted me with such a meaningful part of your day.
Whether you’re working closely with a wedding planner or creating something simple and heartfelt on your own, there are still countless moving pieces that come together to make your wedding day all you’ve dreamed of.
After photographing more than 250 weddings over the past 15 years, I’ve learned that many couples have the same questions about timelines, engagement sessions, unpredictable weather, and all the little details in between. That’s why I created this guide — to give you a clear, encouraging resource you can revisit any time you need clarity or reassurance. It's ever changing and growing so check back often!
Please know that my role goes far beyond taking photographs. I’m here to support you, calm your nerves, and help you truly savor this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
With love, Cat
Thank you once again for inviting me into this special season of your life. If there’s ever anything you need — big or small — please know I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way.
READ THE BLOG:
What you can expect from me as your wedding photographer
I'm a big fan of engagement sessions for a few reasons. Not only do they allow you to get comfortable in front of the camera, they also give you the opportunity to showcase your personalities in a more casual setting that is significant to the two of you. I've created an entire page dedicated to outfit tips, location ideas, timing considerations and more!
Engagement Sessions
my favorite Vendors
WHO WILL help MAKE YOUR DAY INCREDIBLE
Over the years, we've learned the important role quality vendors play in creating a stress-free wedding day. We've worked with many of the vendors below and we can't recommend them enough! This is not a paid list - we chose these vendors for both the quality of their work as well as their professionalism on the actual wedding day.
WEDDING PLANNERS
FLORAL DESIGNERS
ViDEOGRAPHY
CATERING
DJ & BANDS
HAIR & MAKEUP
CAKES
Simply Yours Bridal - Granger
Sarah Seven - Chicago
One Fine Day - Ft. Wayne
Marie Gabriel Bridal
Nancy's Bridal Boutique
WEDDING DRESS
RENTALS
Invitations
misc.
If you are planning a wedding outside of South Bend, please reach out and I would be happy to recommend vendors I have worked with before in: Chicago, Indianapolis, Michigan and Ohio
That moment the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day is always magical. And this is true whether you choose to wait until the walk down the aisle or decide to share a private “first look” before the ceremony.
First looks—a quiet, intentional moment couples choose to spend together before the wedding—have become more popular in recent years. While we value the beauty of tradition (and many of our Catholic couples choose to wait until the altar), there are also some wonderful reasons to consider a first look.
Here are a few options and what to expect with each:
Is a First Look Right for You?
If you're wondering whether a first look is right for you, stop here.
Other Things To Consider
ceremony & reception timing
If your ceremony and reception are at the same location—or if you’re having a 3:00pm Mass, getting some portraits done before the ceremony is strongly recommended. Even without a first look, we can capture bridesmaids, groomsmen, and separate immediate family photos in advance, which helps the rest of the day flow more smoothly.
Limiting First Looks
While a first look with your fiancé is the most common, some couples like to include their parents, siblings, or bridal party. I usually recommend choosing just one, or at most two of these moments. They are sweet, but they do take extra time and coordination on an already busy morning. Keeping them limited allows the morning to stay calm and relaxed, while still capturing those special reactions.
No matter which option feels most “you,” we’ll build a wedding day timeline that honors your traditions while making space for relaxed, joyful photos.
View Example Timelines
WEDDING TIMELINE WITH A FIRST LOOK
each of these timelines are for our 10 hour package
WEDDING TIMELINE
WITHout A FIRST LOOK
the morning of
your wedding
For The Bride
The morning of your wedding sets the tone for the entire day. A little thought and preparation can help keep it peaceful, joyful, and stress-free. Here are a few tips we’ve found helpful:
CREATE A CALM SPACE
Choose a getting-ready room with plenty of natural light and, if possible, keep it tidy and free of clutter. A calm environment helps everyone relax and also makes for beautiful photos.
STAY NOURISHED AND HYDRATED
Have light snacks and water on hand for yourself and your wedding party. It’s easy to forget to eat when nerves are high, but having fuel will help you feel your best.
KEEP YOUR DETAIL ITEMS READY
Gather rings, shoes, invitations, jewelry, perfume, and heirlooms in one place so we can begin photographing them right away.
PLAN FOR PRAYER
Or quiet moments. For Catholic couples, the morning can be a beautiful time to pause — whether it’s journaling, praying with your bridesmaids, or sharing a blessing with your parents before heading to the church.
BUILD IN BUFFER TIME
Weddings often run a little behind in the early hours. Adding 15–20 minutes of breathing room helps the morning stay joyful and unrushed.
Starting your day with intention makes all the difference — allowing you to feel centered, enjoy every moment, and walk into your ceremony with peace and joy.
For The Groom
The groom’s morning is often more relaxed, but a little planning goes a long way in keeping the timeline smooth and stress-free. Here are a few helpful tips:
GET DRESSED ON TIME
Plan for everyone to be fully dressed (except jackets and ties) before we arrive. This allows us to capture natural “getting ready” moments without feeling rushed.
KEEP ESSENTIALS TOGETHER
Gather shoes, tie, cufflinks, boutonnières, watch, cologne, and any special heirlooms in one spot so they’re ready to be photographed.
CHOOSE A BRIGHT/SPACIOUS/UNCLUTTERED SPACE
Just like the bride’s side, natural light makes a big difference for portraits. A clean, well-lit room helps create polished, timeless images.
STAY FUELED
Have snacks, water, or even a light lunch available. It’s easy to skip eating in the excitement, but feeling energized helps you enjoy the day.
ALLOW BUFFER TIME
Weddings move quickly! Building in extra minutes for tying ties, pinning boutonnières, or gathering the groomsmen helps keep the morning calm.
The groom’s morning may be simple, but it’s still part of the story. With just a little preparation, these moments become a relaxed and meaningful start to your wedding day.
Wedding Invitations
I bet you didn't know that I also design, print and create wedding invitation suites, save the dates, as well as day of paper needs! I was actually a graphic and web designer before I found my passion for wedding photography, but I still love creating beautiful paper products for brides on wedding days. And I would LOVE to create them for you. I am in the process of building a brand new website for my invitations, but in the meantime you can find my work over on Etsy. And ALL Cat Alkire Brides get 20% off their orders! Even custom invitations! Feel free to email me directly at hello@catalkire.com or visit my etsy shop, Twig and Juniper below!
Wedding Day Details
We love capturing the little details you’ve thoughtfully chosen to be part of your wedding day. These heirloom pieces help tell the full story of your day and become such meaningful additions to your gallery. When we arrive, we’ll spend about an hour or so styling and photographing details.
TO MAKE THE MOST OF THIS TIME:
• Choose a getting ready space with plenty of natural light if possible. Bright, uncluttered rooms make for the most beautiful images.
• Please gather your rings, jewelry, shoes, veil, purse, perfume, invitations, and any keepsakes you’d like photographed in one spot. Having everything together helps us begin right away.
• Go ahead and unwrap your dress, but don’t worry about hanging or styling it — we’ll find the perfect place to display it beautifully.
These simple steps ensure that your wedding details are captured with the same care and artistry as the rest of your day.
□ Dress
□ Dress Hanger
□ Rings (both engagement and wedding bands)
□ Shoes
□ Perfume
□ Bouquet
□ Hair pieces
□ Jewelry
□ Invitation Suite (2 full sets with envelopes)
□ Any other paper stationery you may have like programs, menus, etc.
□ Vow Books
□ Sentimental Family Heirlooms
□ Extra Blooms From Your Florist
Bridal Details Checklist
Groom Detail Checklist
□ His shoes
□ Socks (if they're special)
□ Cuff Links
□ Tie or Bow Tie
□ Pocket Square
□ Boutonnière
□ Cologne
□ Watch
NOTE: Groom's details are completely optional. Most Couples choose not to include them! If we do have groom's details, we need 90 minutes for detail photos
Please plan for your bouquets to be delivered to your getting-ready location before portraits begin. We’ll absolutely need them for any photos done before the ceremony — like bridesmaids, family, even if you aren't planning on bride and groom portraits beforehand.
It is important that flowers are not delivered to the Basilica/Church if we are doing bridesmaids portraits beforehand
Your bouquet / loose blooms from your florist are important for detail photos alongside your invitation suite, rings, and other heirlooms.
Since bouquets arrive in water, keep a towel handy to dry the stems. This keeps dresses safe from water spots and ensures your flowers look fresh and picture-perfect.
Bouquets
Your rings are such an important part of your story, and we love capturing them while you’re getting ready. Sparkling rings photograph beautifully, so if possible, plan to have your engagement ring professionally cleaned before the wedding.
If that’s not convenient, you can easily clean it at home: soak the ring in warm water with a few drops of dish soap for 20–40 minutes, then gently brush the stone with a soft toothbrush. Rinse and repeat if needed, and your ring will be picture-perfect for your big day.
The Rings
WHAT TO SET ASIDE FOR YOUR DETAIL PHOTOS:
2 full suites (invitation, RSVP, details card, etc.)
Envelopes (addressed if possible)
Extra stamps and wax seals (if you’re using them)
Any Embellishments you included (Ribbon, Wax Seals, etc)
Any special paper goods (programs, menus, vows)
Invitations
did you know I design
Wedding Invitations
That’s right — in addition to photography, I also design and print all things wedding stationery through State of Grey Design Co.
From save the dates and full invitation suites to day-of details like menus, programs, place cards, and seating charts — I’d love to create something timeless and personal for you.
As one of my photography clients, you’ll also receive 10% off orders through my Etsy shop. I offer both custom and semi-custom designs, so whether you’re envisioning something classic or something tailored just for you, we can bring it to life.
If you’re interested, simply send me a quick email and we’ll get started on designing your stationery!
If the forecast is calling for rain, don’t worry — rainy wedding days can be just as beautiful and memorable as sunny ones! If you need proof, just look at Elizabeth & Patrick’s wedding day. It rained steadily, and yet their portraits are some of the most joyful and timeless images.
I keep a full set of 12 clear umbrellas on hand for you and your wedding party, so you don’t need to stress about scrambling to order them yourself. Rain also encourages us to get creative with portraits — we’ll scout covered outdoor locations, use soft overhangs for flattering light, and make the most of every spot.
Rain Tips
A few small preparations can help make a rainy wedding day feel effortless:
Consider having a pair of stylish rain boots (like Wellies) to slip on between portrait locations. They’ll keep your feet dry and comfortable, and they make for fun photos, too.
Touch base with your vendor team. If you’re not working with a planner, it’s especially helpful to loop in your hair and makeup artists so they can prepare for humidity, and your entertainment or rental teams so they can protect their equipment and minimize mud if part of your day is outdoors.
While we can’t promise that rain on your wedding day is “good luck,” we can promise that it doesn’t have to take away from the joy of your celebration. With a little flexibility, thoughtful planning, and those clear umbrellas, your wedding photos will still be every bit as meaningful and beautiful as you’ve dreamed.
Family portraits are one of the most important parts of your wedding day — but they can also be one of the most hectic. With so many loved ones gathered together, excited and chatting, and often a limited window of time, this portion of the day can feel overwhelming without a clear plan. That’s why we help guide the process to keep it smooth and stress-free.
We recommend focusing on immediate family and grandparents during the formal portrait time. If you’d like to include extended family (aunts, uncles, cousins), we’ll capture one large group photo from each side, and then they’ll be free to head to the reception. This keeps the formal portrait time efficient while still honoring your family connections.
Most of our time will be spent with immediate family and grandparents. If you decide not to include extended family in this portion, don’t worry — we’ll still capture plenty of natural, candid photos with them at the reception. The choice is entirely yours.
Tip: The portrait process goes much faster if family members know ahead of time where to be and what to expect. A quick heads-up before the wedding day makes everything smoother.
As part of our pre-wedding questionnaire, you’ll receive a Family Photo List to fill out. It asks for specific groupings as well as any special considerations (such as divorced parents, step-families, or relatives with limited mobility). We do ask that you provide names of each family member in your groupings — that way, we can call people by name and keep the process moving seamlessly.
Family Formals
your entire family, dressed up and together
□ Bride + Groom + Bride's Extended Family (mom's side, then dad's side)
□ Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Siblings + Bride's Grandparents
□ Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents + Bride's Siblings
□ Bride + Groom + Bride's Parents
□ Bride + Groom + Bride's Siblings
□ Bride + Mom
□ Bride + Dad
□ Bride + Groom + Groom's Extended Family (mom's side, then dad's side)
□ Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Siblings + Groom's Grandparents
□ Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents + Groom's Siblings
□ Bride + Groom + Groom's Parents
□ Bride + Groom + Groom's Siblings
□ Groom + Mom
□ Groom + Dad
STARTING FAMILY PHOTO CHECKLIST
Please note that the list above is just a starting point for brainstorming. The official list we send includes many more groupings — such as siblings’ spouses, nieces and nephews — as well as a section for any special photos you’d like to request (godparents, mentors, etc.).
no. 01
god quad
Includes the Basilica, Golden Dome, and lots of green space. This area has beautiful lighting and works wonderfully for both couple and full wedding party portraits.
Also think: Sacred Heart of Jesus Statue & Tree Paths, Sorin & Walsh Halls, Main Steps, etc.
Travel time: right outside the Basilica.
no. 02
grotto
A sacred stop for many couples who choose to light a candle and pray over their marriage together.
Intimate, timeless, and always worth including if possible.
The most popular ask for our couples!
Travel time: ~5 minutes walking from the Basilica.
no. 03
the lakes
Peaceful, romantic, and especially stunning in the summer and fall. Lots of gorgeous flowers and scenery.
Best if your timeline allows for a little extra time away from the main campus. And if it's sunny for it to be just the bride and groom!
Travel time: ~10 minutes walking from the Basilica.
no. 04
bond hall
A favorite of mine that doesn't get visited nearly enough on a wedding day! Known for its iconic architecture and grand columns.
Great lighting, grand staircase. Perfect for elegant couple portraits or smaller group shots.
Travel time: ~5 minutes walking from the Basilica.
no. 05
Law school
Gorgeous stone building with an arched corridor that makes for the most romantic photos.
Great for rainy days as well! Steps from everyones favorite greenery arches (next slide!)
Travel time: ~12 minutes walking from the Basilica.
no. 06
greenery arches
A favorite among all my couples. These arches are right between the law school and the stadium. Gorgeous wisteria blooms in the spring, and a vining ivy replaces it the rest of the summer and fall.
The most enchanting place on campus.
Travel Time: ~15 minutes walking from The Basilica
no. 07
Notre Dame Stadium (requires approval through Experience ND)
An unforgettable and iconic spot for sports lovers! Access must be arranged in advance, and it’s best considered only if you have an earlier Mass.
The field means sacrificing portraits at other beautiful campus locations.
For that reason, I usually don’t recommend it unless the Stadium is especially meaningful to you as a couple and you are okay going straight to the stadium after family photos.
Travel time: ~17 minutes walking from the Basilica.
tips
additional location / travel tips
Campus is big, and portraits almost always take longer than expected (especially with a bridal party in heels or on a busy campus day!). The best plan is to pick 2–3 favorite spots that mean the most to you. This keeps things relaxed and gives us time to capture them beautifully.
And if I can persuade you to do anything… it’s to get the golf carts (and request Mary as your driver!). It makes everything so much smoother and way more fun.
We’ll work with you to choose a realistic route that balances your timeline with the locations most meaningful to you.
RECEPTION TIPS
Your reception is where the celebration begins. filled with laughter, dancing, and candid moments that show the joy of your day. A few simple tips can help us capture it all beautifully.
CAPTURING THE UNTOUCHED SPACE
Your reception details deserve to be remembered just as much as the rest of your day. From the centerpieces to the cake table, everything looks its best before guests arrive. If your ceremony and reception are in separate locations, we recommend building in a little “fluff time” between the two so we can slip over and photograph the space while it’s still untouched. These images complete the story of your day and preserve the atmosphere you worked so hard to create.
CONSIDER A DANCE FLOOR WRAP
A dance floor wrap is a custom vinyl covering placed over the venue’s existing floor, often personalized with your monogram or wedding crest. It instantly elevates the look of your reception, making the dance floor feel like a true centerpiece. Not only does it photograph beautifully for your first dance and open dancing (white being reflected onto your faces rather than orange, but it also ties your entire reception design together.
01.
02.
02.
A NOTE ON TIMING
If your photography coverage is limited, 3–4 hours of reception time is usually enough to capture the highlights — entrances, toasts, first dances, cake cutting, and plenty of open dancing. If you’re planning a late-night exit or want extended coverage, let us know so we can build it into your timeline or offer a faux exit just before we leave for the night.
03.
A NOTE ON TRENDS/TRADITIONS
With TikTok and Instagram full of ideas, it can be tempting to include every trend — champagne towers, games, late-night extras, and more. But the most meaningful receptions are the ones where you feel free to relax and truly celebrate. Choose the details that matter most to you, and then let the rest go. The joy of being fully present with your loved ones will always make the best photos. It's your wedding. Do you.
04.
golden hour portraits
One of the most magical times for photos is during golden hour — that soft, glowing light just before sunset. If possible, I’ll always recommend sneaking away for 10–15 minutes during this time, even in the midst of your reception.
GOLDEN HOIUR PORTRAITS ARE SPECIAL BECAUSE:
- The light is romantic, flattering, and truly irreplaceable.
- It gives you a quiet, intimate pause together during your celebration.
- Couples often name these among their very favorite images from the day.
A NOTE ON SEASONS:
Golden hour looks a little different depending on the time of year in South Bend:
SPRING & SUMMER: Sunset falls later in the evening (around 8:30–9:00 PM), so golden hour often happens during dinner or early reception time. This is the best season to plan for golden hour portraits.
FALL & WINTER: Sunset comes much earlier (as early as 5:15–7:00PM), which usually overlaps with your ceremony, family portraits or just starting your dinner. For this reason, we typically won’t plan a separate golden hour session in the fall or winter.
No matter the season, we’ll make the most of the available light to capture you at your very best. Trust me — when golden hour works in your timeline, it’s always worth stepping outside for.
EAT
Eat a light snack before portraits. Keeping energy up (for you and your bridal party) helps avoid lightheadedness or fatigue, especially in summer heat.
BEAT THE HEAT
On hot days, bring a cooler of cold waters or even frozen washcloths — especially helpful for the guys in full suits.
BOUQUET ARRIVAL
Have your bouquet delivered in time for detail photos and pre-ceremony portraits. Most arrive in water, so keep a towel handy to dry stems before use. It is important that they are not delivered to the basilica if we are doing bridesmaids photos before the ceremony!
HIDE THE BRIDE
No less than 30 minutes of “bride in hiding.” Guests tend to arrive early, so plan to be tucked away at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. If you are not getting married at the basilica I suggest closer to 45 minutes. Guests really do start showing up that early.
bonus tips
for a smooth wedding day
FAMILY PHOTO PREP
Share your family portrait list ahead of time (with input from both sides of the family). Knowing the groupings in advance makes this part smooth and efficient. Make sure your moms tell extended family members to stay in the church if we are getting extended family photos. We often don't have time to chase down Uncle Bill.
GRAB US ANYTIME
During cocktail hour and the reception, don’t hesitate to wave us over if you want a photo with someone — think of us as your personal paparazzi! This goes for your parents too. We want to get photos with their siblings, neighbors, friends, when the time is appropriate.
TIMELINE CREATION
Timeline help is always available. We’ll send a draft timeline early in the planning process, but we’re happy to revisit it anytime details shift. Just reach out — we’re here to help.
These little details may seem small, but they can make a big difference in how your day feels and flows.
quick checklist
✔️ Eat a light snack before portraits (keeps energy up).
✔️ Bring a cooler with water (and frozen washcloths if it’s hot).
✔️ Have bouquets delivered early (and dry the stems).
✔️ Bride tucked away 30 minutes before the ceremony.
✔️ Family photo list finalized and shared with both sides.
✔️ Wave us over during cocktail hour/reception for any “must-have” photos.
✔️ Review your timeline with us anytime — we’re here to help!
Your wedding day is more than just an event — it’s the beginning of your family’s legacy. Long after the flowers fade and the music quiets, your photographs will remain. An heirloom album is the most timeless way to preserve those memories, creating a tangible story you can hold in your hands, flip through on anniversaries, and one day share with children and grandchildren.
We design each album with care, curating your images into a narrative that tells the full story of your day — from the smallest details to the most meaningful moments. Printed on archival-quality paper and bound to last, these albums are crafted to become a keepsake for generations.
Your wedding photos deserve to live beyond a screen. An heirloom album ensures your story is preserved beautifully and passed down with love.
Albums
the perfect way to remember your wedding day
We’re so excited to start planning with you and can’t wait to get to know you better! If you haven’t scheduled your engagement session yet, let’s get that on the calendar — it’s such a wonderful way to celebrate this season and prepare for your wedding day.
If you ever have questions, need guidance, or just want to chat, please know we’re always here for you. You can reach us anytime at hello@catalkire.com
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We hope this guide makes planning feel easier, lighter, and more joyful. Thank you so much for taking the time to read through it — we truly can’t wait to celebrate with you soon!
THANK YOU!
With Joy & Love,
Cat
