What Are Family Formals?
Let’s be honest—family formals are often the most stressful part of the day. It’s that moment right after the ceremony when guests are ready for a drink and a chat… but instead, they’re being asked to stay put for photos. We’ve seen brides cry, grooms get flustered, and relatives “go missing” (usually with a glass of bubbly in hand!).
So if there’s one part of your day we recommend getting super organized—it’s this one.
How to Keep It Stress-Free: Get Organized
Family formals typically happen immediately after the ceremony, while everyone is still on-site. To make this process as quick and smooth as possible, here’s what we ask:
📋 Create Two Lists
Write out all the family photo combinations you’d like—one list for your side of the family, and one for your partner’s. Be as specific as possible!
👯♀️ Nominate Two "Bossy" Helpers
Give each list to a well-organized (and confidently assertive!) guest—one from each side. They should know who's who and be comfortable gathering everyone quickly. This is key. As much as we’d love to help, we don’t know who “Auntie Mary” is—and if she’s already at the bar with Uncle Bob, it could take us five minutes just to find her. Meanwhile, we could be shooting the next group!
By delegating this job, we keep things moving and make sure no one gets missed.
Where Should Family Formals Take Place?
Keep your family photo location:
📍 Close to the ceremony site – This prevents guests from wandering off before we start.
🌳 In the shade – Harsh sunlight causes squinting, sweating, and general discomfort—especially for little ones and elderly guests. Shade = soft light and happy faces!
Which Combinations Should You Include?
First, let’s talk priority. Here’s how to structure your list so that we capture the most important people while everyone’s still fresh and present:
- Start with grandparents (especially if they have limited mobility).
- Then include young children—get those toddler smiles before they get tired or restless.
- Limit the list to around 10 combinations. Time is tight—we usually have about 20–30 minutes for this part of the day. Keeping it short means more time for couple portraits and enjoying your guests!
- Put lower-priority combos at the end, or plan to capture them later during the reception.
- Some family photos can be taken earlier during the “getting ready” time, especially if parents or siblings are with you.
Our Recommended Family Combinations
(Feel free to adjust! These are just a helpful starting point.)
- Couple with Bride’s Grandparents
- Couple with Groom’s Grandparents
- Couple with Bride’s Immediate Family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- Couple with Groom’s Immediate Family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- Couple with Bride’s Parents
- Couple with Groom’s Parents
- Couple with Both Sets of Parents
- Bride with Parents and Siblings
- Bride with Parents
- Bride with Mom
- Bride with Dad
- Bride with Each Sibling
- Groom with Parents and Siblings
- Groom with Parents
- Groom with Mom
- Groom with Dad
- Groom with Each Sibling
Final Thought
Family formals don’t have to be stressful—they just need a little planning. With a clear list, two reliable helpers, and a shady spot near the ceremony, this part of the day can actually be smooth, efficient, and (dare we say?) even enjoyable.
Let us know in advance what combinations matter most to you, and we’ll help make it all happen—with smiles, not stress.