Jessica has been recognized as a preferred vendor to work with by her industry peers, earned TheKnot.com’s Best of Weddings award 9 times, and been inducted into TheKnot.com Hall of Fame. Jessica is a multi-award-winning photographer, a leader in her industry, and an educator to up-and-coming photographers through her Embark Retreat.
1) What is the best advice that was given to you when you started planning your wedding?
Take a minute to stop and enjoy the process. It can get stressful but you have to slow down and think about it because how often do you get to try on gorgeous dresses and taste cake for free?!
2) What is one thing you think every bride should know that you learned while planning your wedding?
Everyone always says “It’s your day, you should get everything your way” and while that is true, there are a lot of family and friends that this wedding means a lot to. Learn to pick your battles and know that a little concession goes a long way with a grandmother or future in-law, but don’t be afraid to say no if you really don’t want something.
3) What were your wedding colors and is there a story behind why you chose them?
Green, beige, and white. I like green and earthy tones and my pinterest was filled with pictures of green foliage and lots of burlap. The first thing I pinned was a table centerpiece that we ended up using and our florist did an amazing job putting that together.
4) What’s your favorite detail you chose for your wedding that representing your love story?
We are big Disneyland fans so my mom got us a Mickey & Minnie cake topper that just makes me so happy every time I look at it. It’s so us. Also, the shot glasses we gave out as wedding favors were a nod to our early dating period that involved a lot of happy hours.
5) How long did you have to plan your wedding day?
Almost 11 months. We got engaged on Christmas and married the next November.
6) Did you hire a wedding planner/day of coordinator? Was it worth the expense?
Sure did! Pam Huckabee and the Fairy Godmother team were wonderful. Definitely worth it since their help allowed my mom to really get to be present and enjoy the day with us.
7) What are your thoughts on doing a First Look before your ceremony?
The best idea ever! Andrew was sick (literally) with nerves and I was only slightly better but once we saw each other the nerves completely went away. I’m so glad we have pictures and video of it because it was just the sweetest moment of our day.
8) Is there anything you’d choose to do differently or have that you didn’t have?
I would have worn more comfortable shoes. Other than that, I wouldn’t change a thing.
9) How was Andrew involved and was there something specific he wanted for your wedding day?
Andrew really liked being involved with the planning, especially with what he called “logistics”. He just wanted to make sure things ran smoothly for us and the guests. He also insisted on coming to meetings to make sure I got what I wanted!
10) What vendors were your top priority?
Photographer, and I hunted down Jessica Frey at a wedding expo because I knew she would make my wedding experience amazing (which she did). The DJ was also important. I ended up with a wonderful team of vendors.
11) Any other advice for brides/grooms planning their 2014/2015 weddings?
Trust your instincts, get your big vendors out of the way early, and make time to enjoy your engagement. It’s all about you two!
My all-time favorite cake scene……enjoy!
Wedding Photography for couples who believe that love is worth celebrating!!
Now Booking Austin/Texas/Destination Weddings for 2014! Email for availability & investment information: Jessica@JessicaFreyPhotography.com
Jessica Frey is an award-winning, Texas Hill Country-based international wedding and event photographer committed to delivering a high-quality experience complete with stunning and joyful images.