As an Atlanta wedding photography studio, we love it when we get the opportunity to photograph locations that truly represent Atlanta! We had such a blast capturing these Piedmont Park engagement photos with Meredith & Greg. I cannot say enough good things about what a positive vibe these two radiated throughout their engagement session. It was such a pleasure to work with this amazing couple. Below is a quick interview with the Most Fun Loving Couple of 2016, Meredith & Greg!
How did you meet?
Bride: We were set up by a mutual friend at his birthday party. I thought he was adorable and super handsome. I was a bit weary because he was wearing a “Keep Calm and Chive On” T-shirt. We chatted briefly and there was definitely an attraction.
Groom: My good friend’s fiance introduced us. We had met and then went on a double date to Hudson Grille. She obviously was very attractive and had a demeanor that was fun. Her jokes and playful spirit had me laughing all night. There certainly were sparks flying after our first date.
How/ when did you start dating? What attracted you most to each other?
Bride: Looks for sure, we went on a few double dates in the following weeks but our first solo date was at Sweetwater Brewery. I was super nervous!!!
Groom: She, of course, is beautiful and I certainly recognized that at first sight. But for me, her personality is what drew me in. Her ability to have fun in any situation and quick wit are very attractive. We started dating shortly after being introduced. Was I nervous? Absolutely. She is a gorgeous, funny and intelligent woman. Who wouldn’t be?
Tell me about your relationship. Were you nervous about one another meeting your family? Who said I love you first?
Bride: He is my biggest support system, no questions asked. He knows everything about everything and makes me a better person every single day. He also makes me laugh every single day. He holds me accountable and pushes me to use logic and keeps me calm during times of stress. I wasn’t nervous for him to meet my family, I knew they would love him just as much as I do. We disagree on who said it first, but I will back down, he said I love you first. I was beyond thrilled to hear it.
Groom: It’s hard to put in to words exactly what makes Meredith different. When I’m with her, nothing else matters. I constantly find myself smiling or laughing, sometimes for no apparent reason. We have fun together regardless of what we are doing, and I couldn’t imagine life without her. I was not nervous about her meeting my family, however I was nervous to meet her parents. As all parents do, they quite clearly love their daughter very much, and it was important for me to show them that I cherish her just as much as they do. I said I love you first after she came home from an out of town trip. After the words were said, I felt so good and it was just the beginning of our story.
When did you know this person was the one?
Bride: I knew he was the one when we were driving to Jacksonville to visit his best friend and I found Mickey Avalon on his ipod. It was a slow realization, but I feel like it was something that I knew for a very long time, since the day I met him. It’s overwhelmingly terrifying and wonderful when you realize that you don’t want to live your life the same way ever again. He was a game changer.
Groom: I’m not sure that it was one single event, but a collection of all times spent together that led me to know that she was the one. It seemed every day was amazing and my love got stronger. However once it had built up, it hit me like a freight train. I knew she was the one I wanted to start a family with and I felt like a million bucks.
How did the engagement happen? Did everything go as planned?
Bride: Engagement happened July 9th at Piedmont Park. As far as I know, everything went as planned. First person I told was my mom, but she already knew. I had no idea it was coming that day, there had been many times before that I thought, this is it, and it wasn’t. As soon as he grabbed my hand I knew what was happening and I kept saying “Oh my God, Oh my God, It’s happening, it’s happening” and tried to keep myself from collapsing.
Groom: Engagement happened as described, Piedmont Park. I arranged for us and some friends to “walk the dogs” in the park, and then I would propose at a predetermined spot by one of the lakes, and our friends would photograph it. I also arranged for our friends and family that lived in Atlanta to meet us at Park Tavern for a surprise brunch. Everything went as planned with no hiccups, but it couldn’t have been done without the help of friends and family. There was extreme nervousness leading up to asking, which intensified as we got closer to the “spot” I was going to ask her. I’m not sure whether or not she had an idea it was coming, but she seems genuinely surprised. However, she had been terrorizing me for a few months about it prior to.
Last Questions! What’s the one thing about each other you couldn’t live without?
We LOVE it any time our clients are adventurous enough to try new locations for their engagement sessions. When Samantha & Anthony proposed the idea of driving to Chattanooga, TN for some Lookout Mountain engagement photos, we JUMPED at the opportunity! These two were crazy adventurous as we traipsed through the the Rock City Gardens and Ruby Falls at Lookout Mountain. Below is a quick interview with the Most Adventurous Couple, Samantha & Anthony!
How did you meet?
Samantha: We went on our first date in January 2014. My first impression of Anthony was he was sweet and very good looking. On our first date he gave me my favorite candy – Reese Cups and A Disney movie “Wreck it Ralph”. Anthony says that when he first saw me, he was blown away in how cute I was.
How/ when did you start dating?
Anthony: Our first date was in Savannah, GA and we were both nervous.
How was meeting the parents?
Samantha: I was nervous about Anthony meeting my family because he was the first guy that I had ever dated that I brought home. He was nervous meeting my family because he thought that my family would not like him. I was nervous about meeting his family because I don’t talk much when I meet new people.
Who said I love you first?
Samantha: Anthony said he loved me first. Anthony felt scared because he thought I would not say it back. After he told me I said it back to him and I was a little nervous because I had never told anyone that I loved them.
When did you know this person was the one?
Anthony: Samantha knew I was the one because she would allow me to be my nerdy self and that showed that she loved me for me. She was also a nerd and we loved doing everything together.
Samantha: I knew Anthony was the one when my mom asked him if he would be willing to help me take care of my niece if something happened to her and my dad.
How did the engagement happen?
Samantha: Anthony asked me to marry him December 24th 2015. He had posters with different people/characters we liked from movies and T.V. shows and his brothers, dad, and brother-in-law held the posters up as I walked down the pier. It didn’t happen as I expected because his sister filmed the whole thing wrong and got a picture of a character wrong on the poster. There were butterflies in Anthony’s stomach and he was nervous about the whole thing hoping that everything would go well. I knew nothing about it until I was walking half way down the pier to meet Anthony.
Last Questions! What’s the one thing about each other you couldn’t live without?
What Is a First Look Wedding? Pros, Cons, and Timeline Tips
Thinking about doing a First Look on your wedding day? Learn what a First Look wedding is, the pros and cons, and how it can shape your wedding photography timeline and overall experience.
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What Is a First Look?
A First Look wedding moment is a private time on the wedding day when a couple sees each other before the ceremony. It’s an emotional, intimate experience — often filled with joy, happy tears, and a moment of calm amid the day’s excitement.
While the emotional connection is central, First Look wedding photography also offers practical benefits. It opens up more flexibility in your wedding timeline by allowing couple’s portraits, wedding party photos, and even family photos to be completed earlier in the day. That means more freedom to enjoy the ceremony and celebration without feeling rushed.
Why Consider a First Look Wedding Timeline? 5 Key Factors
1. Sunset Timing: Will There Be Enough Light After Your Ceremony?
Have you checked what time the sun sets on your wedding day? If your ceremony ends around or after sunset, doing portraits afterward may mean working in very low light — or even complete darkness.
This is especially important for fall, winter, and early spring weddings, when the sun can set as early as 5:00 PM. If you’re planning to take outdoor portraits and want that naturally lit, light-and-airy look, you’ll want to be strategic about your timeline.
A First Look wedding timeline is one way to ensure those portraits happen in beautiful natural light — but it’s not the only way. If you’d prefer to wait until the ceremony to see each other, the ceremony should end at least one hour before sunset — ideally 1.5 to 2 hours before. Portraits taken during the final hour of daylight are possible, but the sun is actively setting during that time, which means we’re constantly adjusting lighting and camera settings. This can slow things down significantly — especially during family portraits — and can result in a lack of visual consistency across those images due to the shifting light.
The earlier the ceremony ends, the more flexibility we’ll have to create beautiful, well-lit portraits without the added stress of racing against the sun.
2. Personality & Nerves: How Do You Want to Feel on Your Day?
When deciding whether to do a First Look Wedding Timeline or a Traditional Wedding Timeline, it’s worth reflecting on how you and your partner naturally experience big moments — especially under pressure. Some couples know they’ll thrive in the spotlight, while others recognize they might feel more grounded with a quiet moment together beforehand.
For those who describe themselves as more private or introspective, the idea of being the center of attention can feel overwhelming. A First Look Wedding Timeline allows for an emotional, meaningful connection in a setting that’s calm, quiet, and away from the eyes of your guests. It becomes a moment just for the two of you — instead of being on display during one of the most emotionally charged moments of the day. It can make your first time seeing each other feel deeply intimate, without the pressure of performing in front of family and friends.
For couples who identify with being detail-oriented, hands-on planners, or simply find themselves managing many moving parts, seeing your partner ahead of time can provide a sense of calm and clarity. It brings the focus back to what the day is really about — the two of you and your commitment to each other.
Over the years, many of our couples have told us that their First Look became one of the most meaningful parts of their wedding day. It gave them a chance to slow down, take it all in, and share an experience that felt genuinely theirs — before the whirlwind of the celebration began.
3. Emotions & Makeup: Want a Private Moment (and a Touch-Up)?
Emotions and personality often go hand-in-hand — and on a day as meaningful as your wedding, even the most composed people can feel unexpectedly overwhelmed.
If you or your partner anticipate a wave of emotions the first time you see each other, a First Look Wedding Timeline can provide a quieter, more private setting to experience that moment together. It’s a chance to embrace the tears, the joy, and the emotional weight of the day without the pressure of an audience. And if makeup touch-ups are important to you, it also gives time to refresh before walking down the aisle.
If that emotional moment happens during the ceremony, you’ll be standing in front of all your guests, with no real opportunity to pause, regroup, or freshen up before portraits and post-ceremony interactions begin. It can still be beautiful and meaningful — just something to be aware of if you think you might get teary.
That said, if you don’t expect tears, this may not be a deciding factor for you — and that’s totally okay. Every couple’s dynamic is different, and your decision should reflect what feels most authentic to you.
4. Timeline Flexibility, Guest Time, and Transition Logistics
How a First Look Impacts Your Day
When couples choose to do a First Look wedding timeline and complete most portraits before the ceremony, it opens up more breathing room for the rest of the day. You’ll have the option to attend cocktail hour, enjoy a private moment together, or simply transition into the reception with less pressure.
To see how this decision changes the structure of an entire wedding day, compare our sample schedules in the Atlanta wedding photography timeline planning guide. It includes full-day examples both with and without a First Look, so you can see where portraits, family photographs, and reception events may fit.
What Happens Without a First Look
If you decide not to do a First Look Wedding Timeline, most of your wedding portraits are typically scheduled during cocktail hour — which is usually only about an hour long. In most cases, you’ll be away from your guests for the majority (if not all) of that time. We generally need about 30 minutes for immediate family and wedding party portraits, assuming there aren’t an extended number of group photo requests.
Why Transition Time Matters
After portraits & before the reception begins, we also need a 15-minute transition window to move into the reception space, adjust lighting and camera settings, and photograph the decor before guests enter the space. During this same time, your DJ or planner is usually lining up the wedding party for introductions, and one or both partners may be bustling a wedding dress, touching up makeup, or simply taking a moment to reset before being announced into the reception.
Limited Time for Couple’s Portraits
All of that leaves us with only about 15 minutes — at most — for couple’s portraits during cocktail hour. While we can still create something beautiful, it’s not a lot of time to offer variety. In a perfect world, we recommend setting aside closer to an hour for couple’s portraits — whether all at once or spread out across multiple parts of the day. A First Look Wedding Timeline gives us that additional opportunity to make that happen earlier in the day.
Portraits During the Reception (and the Best Timing)
We can absolutely plan for a few more portraits during the reception if you’re open to stepping away — and many couples are! When this happens, we usually aim for a 10–15 minute window after formalities are complete, once the dance floor opens. That way, you’re not missing any key moments or meals, and you’re not pulled away from guests during a time when everyone is reconnecting and relaxing. This approach gives us a little creative space without disrupting the flow of the evening.
The Risk of Running Behind
While most wedding days stay on schedule, if any part of the day runs longer than expected, portrait time is often the first area where adjustments are made — and that typically means reducing or cutting that time to keep the rest of the event on track.
To keep the reception timeline on track (especially meal time services and entrances), planners or venues may decide to shorten the portrait window. Since this time doesn’t directly impact guests or other vendors, it’s usually treated as the most flexible.
This only becomes an issue if the schedule runs late — but unless your preferences are clearly communicated to your planner in advance, there’s often an assumption that portraits can be condensed or skipped if needed.
If having that time is important to you, we strongly recommend voicing that early in the planning process. Building in extra buffer time — like with a First Look Wedding Timeline — adds more flexibility and helps protect that window if anything shifts on the day.
5. Honoring Tradition: Is a First Look Right for You?
For some couples, there’s nothing more meaningful than seeing each other for the first time at the altar — that quiet intake of breath, the collective stillness, the weight of that moment surrounded by your closest people. If that’s the way you’ve always envisioned your day, we deeply respect that.
Tradition isn’t just a preference — for many, it’s tied to heritage, family, or a sense of emotional grounding. And while it may come with a few logistical trade-offs, those details are secondary when weighed against what matters most to you. Your values, your story, and the meaning behind your choices deserve to be protected.
Our goal is to empower you with all the information you need to make decisions that align with your values and your vision for the day. If preserving tradition is at the heart of that, we’ll be there to support it fully — and to capture those moments with care, intention, and deep respect for what they mean to you.
In Summary: Should You Do a First Look Wedding Timeline?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to doing a First Look Wedding Timeline or a Traditional Timeline — only what feels most aligned with your values, your vision, and the kind of experience you want to create together.
If capturing a wide range of portraits, building flexibility into your timeline, or easing into the day with a quiet moment together feels important — a First Look might be the perfect fit.
If tradition holds deep meaning for you, and you’ve always envisioned that emotional first moment happening at the altar, that’s just as powerful of a choice.
Our goal is simply to give you the clarity and context to make an informed decision — one that reflects who you are as a couple and how you want to remember your day. Whatever you choose, we’ll be there to support it fully, and to document it with care, intention, and heart.
FAQs About First Look Wedding Timelines
What is a First Look wedding tradition? A First Look is a private moment when a couple sees each other before the ceremony. It’s often emotional, intimate, and offers a chance to connect without the pressure of an audience. It also opens up more flexibility in your photography timeline, since many portraits can be completed earlier in the day.
What are the pros and cons of doing a First Look? Pros include reducing stress, easing nerves, maximizing portrait time, and allowing more time with guests after the ceremony. Cons may include needing to be ready earlier and stepping away from a more traditional timeline. Ultimately, it depends on your priorities and how you want the day to feel.
Do we need a First Look to get sunset portraits? Not always — but if your ceremony ends near or after sunset, a First Look may be the only way to capture portraits in natural light. Without one, portraits will likely need to be done in lower light conditions or after dark, unless your ceremony ends at least 1.5 to 2 hours before sunset.
Can we still get great photos without a First Look? Absolutely. If you’d prefer to wait until the ceremony to see each other, we’ll make the timeline work. Just know that all combined portraits (with both partners + family + wedding party) will happen after the ceremony, which may mean less time with guests — and less light to work with — especially if anything runs longer than expected.
Can we do extra portraits during the reception — even if we’ve already done some earlier? Yes — many couples choose to step away briefly during the open dance floor for a few additional portraits. We typically aim for a quick 10–15 minute window so you’re not away from your guests for long. This isn’t meant to replace your main portrait time, but it can be a fun way to add variety — especially if you’re hoping for nighttime or creative lighting portraits later in the evening.
Still unsure whether a First Look Wedding Timeline is the right fit for your day? Reach out to us — we’re happy to walk you through your timeline and help you plan a wedding experience that feels fully your own.
Experience the timeless allure of Callanwolde Fine Arts Center through our lens. At Jaimie Dee Photography, we have had the privilege of capturing some of the most elegant weddings held at this iconic venue, where every image tells a story of love, beauty, and artistry.
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The Timeless Charm of Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center exudes a unique blend of historic grandeur and modern sophistication. Its stately architecture, lush surroundings, and exquisite interior details make it a coveted destination for couples seeking a wedding venue that is both classic and contemporary.
Historic & Architectural Significance: The venue’s rich history and distinctive design provide a backdrop that enhances every celebration. Whether bathed in soft winter light or illuminated by the golden hues of an autumn afternoon, Callanwolde offers a setting that transforms each wedding into an unforgettable experience.
An Iconic Setting for Classy Wedding Photos: With its elegant corridors and refined details, the venue is a favorite among those searching for “Callanwolde Fine Arts Center photos” or “Callanwolde wedding” imagery that captures the essence of a sophisticated celebration.
Our Approach to Capturing Your Special Day
At Jaimie Dee Photography, we believe that every moment deserves to be immortalized with artistry and precision. Our approach is tailored to the unique ambiance of Callanwolde, ensuring that each photograph reflects the love and emotion of your day.
A Story Told Through Art: We take pride in weaving a narrative with each frame. By highlighting the interplay of natural light, architectural details, and genuine moments of connection, our images transform a wedding into a timeless story. This is why many clients specifically seek us out for “Callanwolde Fine Arts Center wedding” sessions.
Attention to Detail: Our process involves understanding your vision and enhancing it with our artistic expertise. From the subtle glimmer of candlelight in an intimate reception setting to the expansive elegance of Callanwolde’s grand spaces, every detail is carefully curated.
Client Stories & Testimonials: The heartfelt testimonials from our clients speak volumes about our commitment. Couples often share how our attention to detail and personal approach transformed their day into an everlasting memory, a sentiment that resonates with anyone looking for “classy wedding photos.”
A Glimpse Into Our Gallery at Callanwolde
Step into a curated collection of moments captured at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Our gallery is more than a portfolio—it’s a journey through the beauty and emotion of each celebration.
Visual Storytelling: Every image is thoughtfully composed to highlight the venue’s elegance, from sweeping views of its historic architecture to intimate moments shared between loved ones. We invite you to explore our gallery and experience the blend of artistry and authenticity that defines our work.
Descriptive Captions & Context: Alongside each photograph, we provide insightful descriptions that reveal the story behind the moment. These narratives not only add depth but also reinforce the unique characteristics of Callanwolde weddings.
The Art & Process Behind the Moments
Behind every captivating image is a dedication to the art of photography and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Our Creative Process: We start by immersing ourselves in the ambiance of Callanwolde, studying its architectural nuances and natural light. This enables us to craft images that are as evocative as they are beautiful.
Enhancing Natural Beauty: Our approach is centered on highlighting the natural beauty of both the venue and your special day. Whether it’s the serene elegance of a Callanwolde winter house setting or the vibrant energy of a celebration in full bloom, our work adapts to each unique environment.
Collaboration & Personalization: We believe that every couple’s story is unique. By working closely with you, we ensure that the final collection of images not only meets but exceeds your expectations, capturing the essence of your celebration with authenticity and artistry.
Experience the Difference with Jaimie Dee Photography
Choosing Jaimie Dee Photography means choosing a partner who values quality, creativity, and personalized service.
Unmatched Expertise: With years of experience capturing weddings at prestigious venues like Callanwolde, our team brings a refined, artistic touch to every project. We understand the importance of detail, timing, and the overall narrative of your celebration.
A Commitment to Excellence: Our goal is to create a visual legacy that you can cherish for a lifetime. The blend of technical expertise and creative vision ensures that your wedding day is preserved in its most beautiful and authentic form.
A Personalized Experience: Every wedding is a unique story waiting to be told. We invite you to discover the difference that a personalized approach makes—one where your vision and our expertise combine to create lasting memories.
Let’s Capture Your Timeless Moments
Inspired by the elegance of Callanwolde? Let us help you preserve your special day with images that are as timeless as the venue itself. Reach out to Jaimie Dee Photography today to begin a conversation about how we can bring your wedding story to life.
Contact us now to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services. Your unforgettable wedding journey starts here.
Atlanta Wedding Photographers: Jaimie Dee Photography with Jaimie Dee, Calvin Cummings, & Kyle Holmes Wedding Planning: Kecia Wilson with 3 Little Birds Weddings Ceremony & Reception Venue: Caitlin King with Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Band: Cindy Medus & Contagious Dress Boutique: Demetrios at Macy’s Herald Square Florist: Kerry Keisler Catering: Saffold Smith with Affairs to Remember Makeup Artist: Grace Sim Hair Stylist: Sacha & Tymeka with Beauty Blend Group
After heading out from the ceremony at the IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY ATLANTA, this couple took the reception over to the Emory Conference Center. And what a reception it was! Not only were we impressed by the beautiful courtyard during their bridal portraits, we LOVED the gorgeous ballroom set up for the reception! These Emory Conference Center wedding photos were nothing short of jaw-dropping beautiful.
Bridal Party Portraits inside the Emory Conference Center Hotel
The bride and her girls looking pretty in pink!
Bride & Groom Portraits at the Emory Conference Center Hotel
Outside Green Space at the Emory Conference Center Hotel
First look for the bride and groom to see the Emory Conference Center reception hall for the first time!
Bride & Groom First Look with Emory Conference Center Reception Ballroom Space
Such a gorgeous space!
Emory Conference Center Hotel Wedding Reception Ballroom
GO DAWGS! I can’t even count how many amazing yummy cakes they had for their wedding! AND CUPCAKES!!!
Wedding Reception Decor
And such a gorgeous wedding cake!!! Fresh flowers really do make some of the prettiest cake decor.
And THIS. THIS DESSERT TABLE. Divine. All of it. Flowers. And chocolate flowers. And more chocolate.
We love it when our couples are so thoughtful and think of every last little thing their guests might need!
Can’t get over these gorgeous table centerpieces. The florist really outdid herself! SO pretty!
Emory Conference Center Ballroom Decor
The happy couple having their first dance together as husband and wife!
Bride & Groom Dances at the Emory Conference Center Ballroom Dance Floor
If you loved these Emory Conference Center Wedding Photos, you might love some of our other work! Check out our wedding portfolio here.
Atlanta Wedding Photography: Jaimie Dee Photography with Jaimie Dee & Zachary Edmonds
Wedding Planner & Florist: A Very Special Wedding with Becky Shehan
Ceremony venue: Immaculate Heart of Mary
Reception Venue & Catering: Emory Conference Center
Videographer: Thomas Vision Films with Thomas Brown
DJ: Glass Dee Entertainment
Dress Boutique:
Band: Rua 6
Cake: Cecelia’s Cakes (Cake)
Makeup & Hair Artist: Beauty by Eye Do with Nadira & Corianne
Hi! We're Jaimie & Kyle (+Associates) with Jaimie Dee Photography. We're Atlanta photographers based in the metro area and service clients all over the globe. Jaimie Dee Photography was established in 2008. We're primarily a wedding and portrait studio. Our images are crisp, clean & colorful and strike a balance between classic and candid styled portraits. Aside from the photography, we help you craft the perfect photo experience - from the beginning planning stages to the finished artwork hanging on your walls. When you're in front of our camera, we'll also offer you gentle guidance through a combo of stationary and movement based poses. We'll help bring out your inner diva too - even if you're shy! If you're looking for a photographer in the metro Atlanta area or beyond, we'd love to meet you!
