Being an amateur photography enthusiast, I can say—with a little bit of shame mixed in with some self-loathing—that I want to clone myself so that I can stand next to the photographer at my wedding. I would point out, "Oh look, there!" and "Quick, quick, quick; they're having a moment!"

Don’t judge. You know you kinda wish you could, too.

So when I read on various wedding blogs that this magical must-take photo list actually existed (and it was not at all considered to be obnoxious), I was ecstatic, to say the least. Read on for the wedding photo ideas I'm dying to steal!

Photo courtesy of Joey Allen

1. My dress hanging on its own

This baby cost me two months worth of work, so needless to say, she better be getting quite a bit of attention in front of the lens.

Photo courtesy of Joey Allen

2. Our rings

This snapshot is probably the most cliché, but I do think that out of the entire wedding process, the rings don’t get paid as much attention as they should. They will bind us as husband and wife from that day forward.

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Allure Bridal

@bridalguide: "The back of this @AllureBridals gown stopped us dead in our tracks...Gorg!"

Birnbaum & Bullock

left: @bridalguide: "Classic beauty ball gown @BirnbaumBullock."
right: @bridalguide: "Ball gown worthy of Grace Kelly."

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Anna Maier

left: @bridalguide: "Beautiful blooms cascade down this Anna Maier gown!"
right: @bridalguide: "Love this triple tier gown at Anna Maier."

@bridalguide: "Modern bubble hem gown at Anna Maier."

Anne Barge

Check out more Anne Barge styles in our gown gallery!

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Amsale Bridal

Check out more Amsale in our gown gallery!

left: @bridalguide: "Perfect party dress @amsalebridal love the ribbon skirt!"
right: @bridalguide: "Lots of asymmetrical necklines in the @AmsaleBridal collection LOVE!"

Each bride is different: Some have all the details of their dream wedding planned years prior to finding a groom and others are perfectly content with a quickie courthouse ceremony. Most of us fall somewhere in between, and when it comes to grooms, the same rule applies (okay, they likely haven't dreamt of EVERY detail).

From my experience, the level of your groom's involvement will fluctuate depending on which wedding-planning task you're currently working on. It's up to both of you to decide which aspects of the wedding you'll contribute to equally. Here is a breakdown of tasks Corey has helped with, ranging in order from most to least involved with:

1. Venue

While Corey and I were searching for places, we were living in separate states and he would often complain that he wished he was in Indianapolis so that he could be touring venues with me. In the end, we chose a venue that I toured once solo and together as a couple. I'm really glad that Corey cared about the venue (almost) as much as I did. I can definitely see how factors like chandeliers and stunning downtown views might not be of interest to some grooms.

2. Atmosphere

Corey and I both want our reception to be fun, which means having a great DJ and free-flowing drinks. We both don't want magicians, clowns or anything out of the ordinary. However, not all couples are in accordance about what they constitute as a form of entertainment. 

Since my engagement, I’ve been taking full advantage of my new role as bride-to-be, wearing white to every wedding-related event. Our engagement party? Searching for our venue? Shopping for my wedding gown? You guessed it — I showed up to each occasion decked out in ivory. I plan on continuing this tradition at my bridal shower next year…with an unexpected twist. 

Each week, we'll feature wedding music recommendations from Scratch Weddings, the nation's leader with the best wedding DJs at affordable prices. This week's post comes from DJ Stefanie Nava, a native New Yorker who currently DJs at some of New York City's notable nightlife venues, such as APT and Le Poisson Rouge, and has residencies at 205 club and Sutra Lounge. At the heart of it all, Stefanie has a love for music, is a romantic, and enjoys combining these traits when spinning weddings. She feels it’s a privilege to be a part of what is such a tremendous event for the couple and their loved ones. Here, Stefanie's tips for choosing your cocktail hour music.

Photo Credit: Leigh Skaggs Photography