After having a discussion at lunch with one of my favorite photographers, I realized that the engagement portrait session isn’t just for the couple to show off their love for each other. It is also a time for the photographer to see your personalities, get a feel for your style and build a rapport with you. It makes their job on your wedding day so much easier because they feel as if they already know you. Based on your personalities they start getting ideas of things they’d like to do or shoot for your big day. It will also give you an idea of their work prior to your wedding. So if at all possible, make sure to do an engagement session with your photographer. You’ll be happy you did.

You can incorporate your engagment photos in a variety of ways for your wedding. Why not add them to your save the dates or wedding website which is a great way for those who have not met your fiance(e) to get a look at them

{both images from minted.com}

Make a photo book for guests to sign in lieu of a guest book like this one from Michelle & Lawrence’s wedding.

Use them on guest tables as your table numbers/names like these from Joe & Kerry’s wedding.

Lastly, use them in a signature mat like these from April & Joshua’s wedding.