What to Wear to Your Engagement Session
“What the heck are we supposed to wear?” I mean, I’ve even asked photographers before my husband and I step in front of the lens. I get it. You want to look goooood while you’re frolicking with me on the beach right? Don’t worry boo, I’ve gotchu! Are you ready for my top 5 tips for choosing the perfect outfit? Ok, then let’s dive right!
Before they even start asking questions about locations or what to expect from me during our engagement session together, couples have one burning question. “What the heck are we supposed to wear?” I mean, I’ve even asked photographers before my husband and I step in front of the lens. I get it. You want to look goooood while you’re frolicking with me on the beach right? Don’t worry boo, I’ve gotchu! Are you ready for my top 5 tips for choosing the perfect outfit? Ok, then let’s dive right!
Choose Two Outfits
I know what you’re thinking “it’s hard enough to choose one, but TWO OUTFITS? Really Chelsi?” But hold on a sec because we’re going to make choosing outfits so easy even my 9-year-old could do it! Let’s give you some variety by choosing two different looks okay? You’re going to want to pull out one dressy outfit and a more laid back option.
BONUS TIP: We’re probably going to be shooting outdoors far away from the convenience of a restroom, so you may have to change in your car or behind a tree, so I recommend outfits that are easy to get in and out of.
Dress Appropriately for the Location
When choosing outfits, think about what would look good in the location we are shooting in. If we’re going to the beach, you’re going to want to put your toes in the sand, so boots and a parka are out! Considering an urban location? Try wearing something modern or edgy. A leather jacket with a pair of jeans and stilettos perhaps?
You’ve got to Move it
In the infamous words of King Julian from Madagascar, “you’ve got to move it, move it”.
Seriously though, you’ll look your best while wearing something that you are able to move in. If you’re stuck in the same position because you can’t lift your arms or your dress feels too short and you’re afraid your exposing too much leg, you won’t feel comfortable to use some fun prompts ! And you will feel self conscious the whole time which will ultimately lead to those awkward photos that you are terrified of. This also means that you should wear clothing that fits you perfectly. Nothing too loose or tight.
Choose Neutral Tones
When in doubt choose neutrals, but don’t don’t try to be twinsies with your colors. While I love color, in most cases, there’s nothing quite like soft and light neutrals in a photograph.
Consider light colors such as whites, creams or pastels.
Mix in other neutrals like denim or leather. I love a leather jacket thrown over a lace dress it's timeless yet edgy at the same time. perfect.
Coordinate your outfits using colors and textures but please don't be too matchy-matchy. There is nothing more awkward than two people wearing the same exact shirt, unless of course, you’re a cute elderly couple.
Things That Just Don’t Photograph Well
T-shirts that have any logos of insignia, no matter how small. Just say no!
Sweat Suits, tops or bottoms. This includes sweatshirts and sweatpants. This is a total party foul.
Unless we’re going for a dip in the ocean, no board shorts.
Flip Flops. I mean, I love ‘em but not at a photo session.
Accessories that you should avoid like the plague:
Chains. Anywhere: Belts, Wallets, even around your neck. Nope.
pocket knives or your phone if we can see it sticking out. You aren’t going to call your buddies during a makeout session and you won’t need your knife either. Leave them in the car!
Absolutely no baseball caps. Hats are okay, but this isn’t a sporting event, so please keep it classy!
You’re not Kanye, leave your sunglasses at home.
One Final Thought
The clothes you wear to your engagement session should be a reflection of your love story. Please don't overthink your outfit. Just wear what you feel good in. If you would never wear a long flowy dress then don't. The last thing I want is to be photographing the version of you that you think fits perfectly in a box that anyone would put you in. Be true to you and I'll be authentically me, and there will be magically made. Pinky promise!
CHELSI IS A DESTINATION WEDDING AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN FORT BRAGG, CALIFORNIA. HER BAGS ARE ALWAYS PACKED AND SHE’S READY TO GO ON AN ADVENTURE TO CAPTURE YOUR LOVE STORY! SHE LIVES FOR EXPERIENCING THE BEAUTY ALL AROUND US, CAPTURING UNTAMED LOVE, AND MAKING PEOPLE LAUGH. HER STYLE IS AUTHENTIC, REAL, AND EMOTIONAL. SHE BELIEVES IN LAUGHING TOO MUCH, SINGING TOO LOUD, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST. CHELSI PREFERS CAPTURING AUTHENTIC MOMENTS THAT EVOKE EMOTION OVER PERFECTLY POSED PHOTOS.
Doreen + Josh | Sea Ranch California Engagement Session | Mendocino Coast Couples Photographer
Doreen was out with her girlfriends visiting an up and coming local restaurant when she spotted Josh from across the room. They started talking to each other but by the end of the night didn't exchange numbers. She left with her friends, disappointed. The next day, as she and another friend were walking to dinner, they ran into each other again! The rest is history, but Josh says they're meeting was serendipitous and I couldn't agree more.
I'm a sucker for a good old fashioned love story. Aren't you? If so, you're going to want to keep reading because I'm about to tell you how Doreen & Josh met!
Doreen was out with her girlfriends visiting an up and coming local restaurant when she spotted Josh from across the room. They started talking to each other but by the end of the night didn't exchange numbers. She left with her friends, disappointed. The next day, as she and another friend were walking to dinner, they ran into each other again!
The rest is history, but Josh says they're meeting was serendipitous and I couldn't agree more. Their friend Sammy of Bloomade hired me to follow them around on an adventure in Sea Ranch, California. It was so windy that day, but Doreen’s dress and hair flowed so beautifully in the breeze, none of us could possibly have been upset about it.
Thanks for letting me tag along on your adventure Dorreen and Josh!
The Inn At Newport Ranch Engagement Session Part III
They rocked out at The Inn At Newport Ranch, frolicked in the redwoods, and then headed to the beach (after the sun had almost completely set) for some fun in the waves. This part of the evening is by far my favorite. What I thought would turn out to be grainy photographs that I wouldn’t share anywhere on the internet, turned out to be some of my favorite black and white images, ever! It was foggy and the sun had set completely, leaving us very little time to capture the essence of our time on the beach. BUT, Leslie insisted on getting in the water and somehow ended up tackling Lejf, leaving them both completely drenched and covered in sand. I’d tell you the rest of the story, but I’m going to let the photos do the rest of the talking!
I give you the third and final part of Leslie & Lejf’s engagement session at The Inn At Newport Ranch!
Ok, so what did you guys think? Weren’t they hot? Lemme know in the comments!
The Inn At Newport Ranch Engagement Session | Leslie + Lejf | Part I
He was a wild hair metal rock ‘n’ roll radio DJ who worked a second job in Special Education classrooms. She was a show-stopping singer who inspired the world around her through teaching and her own non-profit foundation (Peter Pan Foundation). Leslie’s mom was a teacher at a school that he frequently helped in. One day, she said you should really meet my daughter. He thought to himself, this isn’t a hook up, I mean, what’s she going to do, have Leslie come to the school for a blind lunch date? YES!! That’s exactly what happened. They were introduced on a random Tuesday during a lunch period. Lejf who was sitting at a lunch table with his students was caught completely off guard by this blond bombshell. She sat down and immediately stole his heart. The universe had spoken, then were meant to be.
Lejf describes it like this: “Some loves are like a golden brick road or a carriage ride to a castle in the sky. Others find a more appropriate metaphor in a sports car raging full-throttle down a long clear stretch of highway. Still, others wind across deserts of time and through thickets of fate to emerge with hands and hearts stronger forged from the journey. This was the latter, yet from the very first moment, the destination was always to be together."
We spent several hours together frolicking around The Inn at Newport Ranch creating magic with their vibrant personalities and beautiful love story. My favorite part was when they dressed up like rockstars. Don’t take my word for it though, you must see for yourself. So I’ll stop talking and let ya scroll through these awesome photos!
Oh, and part II of this series will come out next week. Stay Tuned!
CHELSI IS A DESTINATION WEDDING AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER BASED IN FORT BRAGG, CALIFORNIA. SHE LOVES TO TRAVEL AND WILL GO ANYWHERE TO CAPTURE YOUR LIFE'S SWEET MOMENTS. SHE LIVES FOR SEEING THE WORLD, CAPTURING AUTHENTIC LOVE, AND MAKING PEOPLE FEEL FABULOUS. HER STYLE IS AUTHENTIC, REAL, AND EMOTIONAL. SHE BELIEVES IN LAUGHING TOO MUCH, SINGING TOO LOUD, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST AND PREFERS CAPTURING EVERY SINGLE AUTHENTIC BEAUTIFUL MOMENT THAT EVOKE EMOTION OVER PERFECTLY POSED PHOTOS.
The Last Wedding Day Makeup Tips You Will Ever Need
Hey girl! You’re engaged, planning your wedding, and feeling great! That’s aaaaammmmmaaazzing. You probably stumbled upon this little corner of the internet expecting to see a make up artist gushing over their favorite shade of lipstick and best skincare routine. Alas, you’ve stumbled upon MY corner of the internet and I’m the photographer. Let me tell ya a secret. I am not a girly girl. I rarely wear make up and in fact, I had to have someone give me a rundown on how to apply it just a few weeks ago.
So instead of hearing me gush over how complicated it all is, I asked my good friend Rachel Cail of Prati Beauti to give us her top makeup tips for your wedding day.
Rachel Cail of Prati Beauti
Ya game? Okay, let’s see what she has to say!
You NEED a Skincare Routine
I always recommend an excellent skincare routine (if you don’t already have one) beginning as soon as you can. Also you want to see an esthetician for a skin evaluation so that you know you’re using the right products for your skin type/conditions. Healthy skin makes for the best makeup application - of course just about anything can be covered, so don’t worry if you have redness or sun damage, that’s what I’m here for!
2. Don’t Forget Your Favorite Lipstick
Bring your favorite shade of lipstick with you to the trial run and also the day of wedding! Lipstick often needs touched up in between getting ready for the ceremony and photos, etc. Eating and drinking after your makeup application is often needed, yet makes the lipstick wear off! I use a product that helps the lipstick last longer, and offer straws to all my clients to help as well - but it’s always nice to have your exact shade tucked away just in case.
3. Extend Your Lashes
If you have sensitive eyes or you tear up at weddings, or feel you might at tear up at your own, get lash extensions at least one month before wedding. This way you have time to get a fill before the wedding date! Lash extensions are fabulous, they look wonderful, last weeks, and in my opinion remove the need for mascara!
4. Choose Your Look Ahead of Time
Choose your makeup look ahead of time! Match it with your theme! Is it whispy and natural, or glam like the roaring 20’s? Either way if you know what you’re looking for in advance it helps to practice the look before you see your makeup artist! Take some selfies of the makeup you like on yourself!
BONUS TIP:
If you don’t regularly wear makeup, maybe get it done at a couple different makeup counters at department stores! It’s often complementary and you can experiment with color!
Looking for more Wedding Planning Tips?
Check out these amazing ideas:
3 Reasons To Consider An Elopement
Chelsi is a destination wedding and portrait photographer based in Fort Bragg, California. She loves to travel and will go anywhere to capture your life's sweet moments. She lives for seeing the world, capturing authentic love, and making people feel fabulous. Her style is authentic, real, and emotional. She believes in laughing too much, singing too loud, and most importantly living life to the fullest and prefers capturing every single authentic beautiful moment that evoke emotion over perfectly posed photos. 
Navarro River Redwoods Engagement Session || Danielle + Morgan
Like most modern day couples, they met online. After a few weeks of talking on the phone until the wee hours of the morning, they decided to go on their first date. Ya’ll, it last 16 hours because they just couldn’t say goodbye. They didn’t live near each other for the first year but then decided it was time to move in together.
Every day feels like a slumber party with your best friend and we get through life's ups and downs with our ridiculous silliness and constant laughter. Even the average grocery run is an adventure when we are together.
In just a few short weeks, these two will tye the knot and continue their adventure to infinity and beyond. I can’t wait to celebrate with you both Danielle & Morgan, it’s going to be so much fun!
Best Wedding Venues In Mendocino, California| Mendocino Wedding Photographer
Hey friends! I am often asked for my favorite wedding venues on the Mendocino Coast. Honestly, that’s a loaded question because I love them all, but like anyone, I definitely have my favorites. I decided to give you a little glimpse into a few of my favorites. So here they are in no particular order:
The Inn at Newport Ranch
Driving up to this property, you will instantly feel like you have stepped onto a movie set. You may be greeted by a cow in the driveway, but most definitely by your hosts who will likely offer you a water or glass of wine. With breathtaking ocean views, gorgeous architecture, stunning interior design, and love in every corner, this is the perfect location for an intimate wedding. As if that wasn’t enough, let’s not forget the redwood lined ridge-top and coastal views. We can explore the redwoods together for your bridal session and then you can be married overlooking the breathtaking pacific ocean. This is also a perfect place for a Mendocino Honeymoon or even a quick lovers getaway. We’ve had our own staycation there and can not say better things about it!
photo courtesy of theinnatnewportranch.com
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
Although it has been an incredibly long time since I have photographed a wedding there, I spend a lot of time with my family and friends at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. I had the honor of photographing a proposal there over the summer (oops a little behind on blogging, coming soon!) and wowza, look at those colors! This place is a treasure trove of color, texture, and most importantly will save you a boat load in decorating costs. Home to the Dahlia Garden and best known for their Rhododendrons, the garden is beautifully fragrant and will entertain all the senses. Oh and did I mention the ocean views? Yes, this is your all inclusive choice on the coast. Mendocino Coast Botanical has it all!
Switzer Farm
Located 20 miles north of Fort Bragg, California, this venue boasts breathtaking ocean views, a beautifully manicured garden, and a centuries old victorian farmhouse. The farmhouse home can accommodates 20 plus guests, and for those not staying with you, there are several Bead and Breakfast’s to choose from just up the road in Westport. This is the perfect place for the couple who wants to bring their family along for their big day!
Ellie’s Farmhouse
A country home is nestled among 40 acres with meadows & majestic redwoods, Ellie’s Farmhouse is a perfect place for your intimate wedding or gathering. The most unique and possibly my favorite feature of this property is the old fashioned Fire Engine from Mendocino Fire District that sits on the lawn. It’s a perfect prop for photos. The house can accommodate up to 7 overnight guests, and there is a bonus Glamping Tent that could serve as your place to snuggle up after your wedding day! There is a beautiful kitchen that is perfect for your caterer or family to prepare a meal. Every nook and cranny is full of perfect details for your wedding day!
A Few additional Venues on the coast for your consideration:
(click the words below to be taken to the venue website!)
Macculum House (I am excited to be working with Elope Mendocino on a wedding here this summer)
Mendocino Headlands State Park
Philo Apple Farm (discounts apply for anyone booking a wedding with me here)
Yokayo Ranch (I am excited to be working with his venue this summer, keep a lookout for a blog post sometime in June)
Some of my favorite Wedding Planners:
Elope Mendocino (Elopements are my jam, and I love working with Vanna, let’s make magic together!)
No matter where you decided to exchange nuptials on The Mendocino Coast, you are sure to have beautiful views and unforgettable memories!
Brides, what do you look for when you are considering from a venue? Tell us in the comments below! and for all my Wedding Professional Friends out there, What are your favorite venues here on the coast? Drop a comment and give us your best tips!
Chelsi is a destination wedding and portrait photographer based in Fort Bragg, California. She loves to travel and will go anywhere to capture your life's sweet moments. She lives for seeing the world, capturing authentic love, and making people feel fabulous. Her style is authentic, real, and emotional. She believes in laughing too much, singing too loud, and most importantly living life to the fullest and prefers capturing every single authentic beautiful moment that evoke emotion over perfectly posed photos.
Albion River Inn Wedding in Albion, California || Ana + Cory
Anytime an event is planned outdoors in April on the Mendocino Coast there is a risk of rain showers. The day before Ana + Cory were to be married at Albion River Inn, it was pouring. I was starting to get a little nervous, so I ordered rain gear for myself and my camera. I contacted Cory and let them know that they may need an alternate plan for their ceremony. The forecast called for more of the same on their wedding day. They came prepared with clear umbrellas and water resistant boots.
On the day of their wedding, 10 minutes before we were supposed to start their bridals and family photos, it started raining sideways and then like magic when we stepped out of the car at Spring Ranch, an old cattle ranch in Little River, California, the downpour turned to a sprinkle. They hid beneath their umbrellas for a little while and then decided to live dangerously and dance in the rain.
As we approached the inn, the rain stopped entirely and they were able to have their ceremony on the lawn overlooking the ocean as planned. My words can not do this wedding justice, so you’re going to have to see it for yourself. So without further ado, Ana & Cory’s Albion River Inn Wedding:
