Engagement Session Tips Every Couple NEEDS to Know
Shoot the Vows
Your engagement session doesn't have to be awkward — promise. In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're sharing all of our best tips for getting the most out of your engagement session, whether you're doing photos, video, or both. From what to wear and how to prep to what actually makes the difference between stiff, posed shots and images that feel like you — we're covering everything you need to know before you step in front of the camera. We're talking about: 📸 What to wear — and what to avoid 📸 Why having your wedding videographer at your engagement session is a game-changer 📸...
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Everything Couples Need to Know About Wedding Catering
Shoot the Vows
Your food choices affect way more than just your guests' plates. In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're sitting down with Creative Caterers at Glendoveer in Rochester, NY to talk about what really goes into wedding catering — and what most couples don't realize until it's too late. From how your menu impacts your timeline and flow to the biggest planning mistakes that lead to unnecessary stress, this conversation is a must-listen before you book your caterer. We're getting into: 🍽️ What couples get wrong when picking a caterer (and how it affects the entire day) 🍽️ How food...
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The WORST Wedding Advice We've Ever Heard
Shoot the Vows
"Just have your uncle shoot the wedding. He has a nice camera." 😳 In this episode of Shoot the Vows, Kalee and I are reacting to some of the worst wedding advice that's floating around the internet (and family group chats). From skipping vendors to cutting corners that will absolutely come back to haunt you, we're breaking down why this "advice" can actually ruin your wedding day — and what you should do instead. If you've ever been told to ditch the videographer, skip the coordinator, or not feed your vendors… this one's for you. We're not holding back. 🎙️ Connect with Shoot the...
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The Invisible Work Behind a Perfect Wedding Day
Shoot the Vows
Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes of a flawless wedding day? Spoiler: it's never as "effortless" as it looks. In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we sit down with Eliza Jane from Eliza Jane Events — a luxury wedding planner and designer based in Rochester, NY — to talk about the invisible work that goes into pulling off a seamless celebration. From vendor management and timeline pivots to navigating family dynamics and room energy, Eliza shares what couples never see (and the wild saves they never knew happened). We're getting into: 🔹 Real problems that happened on...
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The Ultimate Guide for Guys Planning a Surprise Proposal
Shoot the Vows
Thinking about popping the question? This one's for you. In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're breaking down everything you need to know about planning the perfect proposal — from the big-picture logistics to the little details that make the moment truly unforgettable. We're talking about why hiring a photographer for your proposal is worth every penny, how to plan an engagement session, and all the tips and tricks to make sure the moment goes off without a hitch. We're covering: 💍 How to start planning a proposal (and where most people overthink it) 💍 Choosing the perfect location...
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Why Planning a Wedding is so Stressful and How to Survive It
Shoot the Vows
Nobody tells you that planning a wedding can feel like a second job that also makes you cry. In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're sitting down with Ashley Statt from Statt Events to get real about why wedding planning is so overwhelming — and more importantly, how to actually get through it without losing your mind (or your relationship). From the mistakes couples make right after getting engaged to the hidden costs and decision fatigue that nobody warns you about, Ashley is sharing the honest truth about what to expect and how to stay sane. We're getting into: 💍 The biggest mistakes...
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Is your wedding DJ actually an Emcee?
Shoot the Vows
In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we sit down with DJ Tori Vee, VP and DJ/MC at Washburn Entertainment, to talk all about MCs and why the right one can completely make or break your reception. We cover what an MC actually does (spoiler: it's way more than just a DJ who talks), why personality matters more than anything when picking one, and what separates a great MC from a cringey one. Tori breaks down how your MC sets the tone and energy for the entire reception, things couples totally forget to tell their MC but really should, and when it makes sense to book a dedicated MC vs. having your...
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Do you REALLY need a videographer for your wedding??
Shoot the Vows
"I don't think I need a videographer." We hear it ALL the time. So in this episode, Caitlyn plays devil's advocate and puts Kalee in the hot seat. Budget concerns, the classic "am I even going to watch it?" debate, and every reason couples talk themselves out of wedding video... we break it all down. Whether you're on the fence or already convinced you're skipping video, this one might change your mind. Or not. Either way, you'll walk away knowing exactly what you'd be gaining (or giving up). —— 🔗 CONNECT WITH US: 🌐 Website: shootthevows.com 📷 Instagram: instagram.com/shootthevows...
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Are Wedding Expos the Ultimate Planning Hack??
Shoot the Vows
In this episode of Shoot the Vows, we're joined by Kristen DeBadts from New York Wedding Expos to talk all about wedding expos, what they are, why couples should attend them, and how to make the most of the experience. If you’re newly engaged and feeling overwhelmed about where to start with planning, wedding expos can be one of the fastest ways to meet vendors, discover new ideas, and get a jump start on building your dream vendor team. Kristen shares insider tips on how couples can prepare before attending, what to expect when they walk in, and how to avoid feeling overwhelmed by all the...
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Wedding Receptions 101
Shoot the Vows
We're breaking down everything that happens after "I do," from grand entrances to last call on the dance floor. We're sharing tips on keeping your reception timeline smooth, your dance floor packed, and your guests happy, plus the common mistakes we see couples make and why you should never skip sunset photos. What We Cover: -Grand entrance and first dance tips -Toasts and speeches (keeping them short and sweet) -The dance floor (how to keep it packed) -Timeline flow (when to cut the cake, do the bouquet toss, etc.) -Common reception mistakes (too many formal events, not enough dancing)...
info_outlineTrying to figure out when to start wedding dress shopping? Wondering what to expect at your first bridal appointment? In this episode, we sit down with Marie Adornato, owner of Spy Baby Bridal and Prom in Syracuse, NY and designer behind Adornato Couture, to get all her insider tips for brides navigating the gown shopping experience.
In this episode, we cover:
⏰ The ideal shopping and shipping timeline for your wedding dress
👗 What to expect at your first bridal appointment
💻 Online vs. in-store shopping – pros and cons
💭 Staying true to your vision vs. keeping an open mind
💰 How to budget for your gown (and what brides often forget!)
✨ Accessories and extras to consider
🎉 Making your dress shopping experience as memorable as your wedding day
Whether you're newly engaged or deep in wedding planning mode, Marie's advice will help you feel confident and prepared for one of the most exciting parts of your bridal journey.
Connect with Marie & Spy Baby Bridal:
🌐 Website: https://spybaby.com
📍 Location: 426 N Franklin St, Syracuse, NY
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spybaby.bridal
📸 Instagram: @spybabybridal
Subscribe to Shoot the Vows for more wedding planning tips, vendor spotlights, and behind-the-scenes insights from the wedding industry! Listen on your favorite platform: shootthevows.com
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