It’s so tricky to incorporate wedding photo props without getting tacky. You want to encourage your guests to add their own, fun images to your collection, but you don’t want to make an elegant event feel like a birthday or grad party, right? I hear you! Whether you’re looking to add some fun to the classics on your shot list, loading each reception table with disposable cameras, hosting a social “I-Spy” or setting up a Polaroid station with the guest book, you’re in luck. Here are my favorite wedding photo props (that aren’t cheap or cheesy)!

1. Scrabble Tiles

Let your guests spell out their own words of wisdom with these classic tiles. Have members of your wedding party write out “BRIDESMAID,” or “BEST MAN,” have family members write their relation, or simply have guests write out their own personal messages of “LOVE.” You could even pre-set each bar with your wedding date to make things more streamlined. Any way you go, these little letters pack a big dose of fun in an elevated and classic way. (Plus their neutral color and font won’t clash with your decor!)

2. Chalk boards

Want to give your guests more space to share? Using a few personal chalkboards is a great way to make wedding photo props personal. Encourage your guests to share memories, well wishes to the happy couple, quotes, or even doodles of inside jokes. Chalkboard messages in Polaroids could even turn your guestbook into a guest photo album for a fun, elegant and interactive station at your cocktail hour or reception.

3. Sunglasses

I’m not talking about printed paper glasses on a stick. I’m talking about as many dollar store shades as you can manage. Keep things classic with solid black, or add some fun pops of neon with a variety of colors to choose from. Using real (cheap) shades as wedding photo props adds an easy touch of attitude without feeling too much like a novelty or gimmick. 

4. Sentimental Photos

If you’re in need of wedding photo props for bridal party portraits, have some sentimental photo prints handy. There’s a reason they’re standing by your side on your big day, and photos of the special moments in your friendship are the perfect addition to your images. Recreate the poses in each snap, or laugh at the days gone by for joy-filled candids. This idea works for family pictures, bride and groom portraits, too!

5. Empty Photo Frames

Let your guests structure their own images by holding up empty frames. I’m talking real, glassless frames—not the big poster board ones. Keep it chic with black and white options, rustic and natural with woodgrains, modern with metallics, or fun with bright colors. Whatever your theme, be sure to grab a variety of shapes, sizes and designs. Love the look? Hang the frames in your home as a gallery wall to enjoy each one long after you say “I do.”

Wedding photo props are a great way to show a unique side to your style, theme, or love story. They can show off more personality than the simpler images you’ll undoubtedly take. And can even serve as decor for aesthetic purposes when not in use. I’ve been photographing weddings since 2013, and over the years, I genuinely find such beauty in human connection. Check out some more of my work here, and be sure to visit my Wedding Experience page. Props or no props, let’s turn once-in-a-lifetime moments into timeless images.

There’s a reason they say it takes 12-18 months to plan your wedding day. Big events naturally take more time to organize, and it’s only natural to want your celebration to be perfect, down to the very last detail. But some details you can’t predict or decide for yourself, no matter how long your engagement—like rain. If your big day is approaching this summer, chances are you’re obsessively checking your weather app. If that sounds familiar, read on for my favorite tips for dealing with rain on your wedding day—and how to get the best photos out of it.

What Rain on Your Wedding Day Means

I know that little cloud on the forecast can make your heart sink, especially if your wedding is outdoors, as most Colorado weddings are. But did you know that in some cultures, rain on your wedding day is actually considered a good thing? Afterall, a wet knot is more difficult to untie. So what better way to tie the knot than in the rain? Some parts of the world see rain on your wedding day as a true fresh start, celebrating a new union as you wash away the past and any bad memories. Others believe rain is a sign of future fertility and fortune. Whatever you believe, that leads me to my first tip:

1. Be Flexible

You know what they say… Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain! Since even the best planners can’t control the weather, letting go of expectations, going with the flow and not trying to force a situation will alleviate so much stress—and create some incredible memories in the process. Allow for a little more time in your schedule, and embrace the day for what it is! And be sure to add these memories to your photographer’s shot list:

• Have a friend or family member pick up some rain boots for your wedding party in plenty of fun, bright colors. Then show them off in a joy-filled photo session with your closest girls.
  
• Grab a cute umbrella, then sneak away with your photographer and your new spouse. The weather isn’t the focus of the day—your love is… The love you probably just vowed would weather the storms together! Rainy mist is so romantic. Why not make the most of it?
  
• Keep your eyes on the skies. Where there is rain, there are rainbows, and if one appears over your celebration, be prepared for your photographer to take full advantage!
  
  

2. Be Prepared

While you can’t control rain on your wedding day, you can plan for it, if it looks like a real possibility. Talk to your planner (if you’re using one) or venue coordinator, and have a plan B firmly in place for any parts of your day affected by the weather. (Think alternate ceremony spaces, or safe, secure tents for cocktail hour). Chances are they’ve dealt with the weather before, and can likely suggest vendors they’ve worked with before, if need be. Then be sure to tell your photographer! They’ll likely revise your shot list and timeline, bring the necessary items to protect their equipment and accommodate the drops and lighting, or even bring some great rainy-day props to use (like clear umbrellas). 

Once your backup plan is in place, you can be prepared with a list of items you’d need in that circumstance, or things you could provide your party and guests to make the most of the situation. These are a few of my favorites: 

• Candles/Lanterns
• Blankets
• Umbrellas
• Coffee/Hot Cocoa
• Towels

3. Protect the Glam

By all means, don’t be afraid to get wet if there’s rain on your wedding day—but be responsible for your look, too! You spent months tracking down the perfect dress, and gowns aren’t exactly machine-washable. And trust me, if there’s rain on your wedding day, you’re in for some amazing photos… shots you won’t want tainted by mascara running down your cheeks! Make sure to consider these options:

• If you head outside, try to stay covered, either under a jacket, an umbrella or tent.
• Have a member of your bridal party on train-carrying duty at all times to avoid a muddy hemline. 
• Have a change of shoes handy for walking from space to space
• Ask your hair and makeup stylist to stay longer for touch ups. Bringing some spare blow dryers and setting spray couldn’t hurt, either!

Even if you prefer clear skies, rain on your wedding day can make for memories you’ll never forget. If the forecast looks grim, your future together is bright! It will still be a beautiful day.