Do You Need to Plan a Styled Shoot?

One question we often get from planners is whether or not they should do styled shoots. And, my answer is a non-answer of sorts—but that’s because styled shoots can be just the thing for some and not for others. So today, I wanted to share the questions we encourage you to ask yourself before jumping into a styled shoot, whether that is because someone has asked you to participate or you were inspired to do one on your own. 

Question 1:  Do you need new content? 

I remember when I was just starting my business that one of the challenges I faced was not having a portfolio to show potential couples or vendors. And, even if you have a handful of weddings under your belt, they often do not reflect your ideal client or brand. So, a strategic solution would be to coordinate a styled shoot with the express purpose of creating images to market your business with.

Question 2: Do you have a unique design idea you want to showcase?

Do you have a great idea that hasn't been showcased before? Or is it one that clients just aren’t saying “yes” to because they can't visualize it? If the answer is “yes,” bringing it to life in a styled shoot is a great way to create the overall idea! Not only will it help you pitch the idea to future clients, but it can also help you successfully pitch to publications if the idea really is unique. (Nothing better than getting published and booking a client because of one styled shoot!) 

Question 3: Are you looking to build relationships with vendors prior to working with them on a real wedding?

Vendor relationships are key when running a wedding planning business but it can be hard to establish them if you haven't worked with them on a wedding. This is another reason that styled shoots can be helpful networking tools—they are a great way to start the building blocks of a solid working relationship. When working on a styled shoot as a wedding planner, you are able to show them your organizational, communication, and creative abilities—and vice versa.

Question 4: Are you looking to practice your design skills?

It is hard to practice your design skills when a client is paying you (meaning, you can’t get too experimental), so this is a great way to be creative without the risk of a client not loving your concept. Plus, styled shoots give you the space to hone in on your own design process (creating design boards, playing in different color palettes or figuring out your own personal style). They also give you the opportunity to really dive into all the design vendors and their inventory—which means when a client comes to you with an idea you can easily say, “Oh, I think this chair or linen will be perfect and I know exactly where to source it from.”

In the end, my advice is to not go blindly into a styled shoot! Have an intention, put in thought, and create a strategy for the shoot. And, if you have all of those things—have a great time!