When I got engaged last year, I already knew I wanted to throw an epic 1920s wedding. So, one of the first steps in my planning process of course became prepping for our Gatsby style engagement shoot!
Check out some of my tips below to find out how it all came together, plus how you can plan for your own unforgettable styled engagement session.
Hire the Right Photographer
Believe it or not, my photographer was the first person I hired on for my wedding. Being a blogger, this was one area that I was incredibly specific with.
I know the style I like, and I wasn’t willing to compromise or work with someone with too little experience.
This was especially important I think in executing our Gatsby style engagement shoot. Any styled shoot can take a turn for the worst and appear tacky if the photographer doesn’t know how to pull it off.
I’m not saying you need to spend your entire wedding budget on photography, but make sure you vet your options and only hire someone you can 100% put your faith in both during your styled engagement shoot and on your big day.
Have Fun With Gatsby Style Accessories
Scouting out the perfect Gatsby style accessories was one of the most exciting parts about preparing for our styled engagement shoot.
I was especially surprised at how many affordable options I found on Amazon! I ended up ordering (and wearing in the photos!) this Gatsby headpiece from Amazon for only $13.99.
I was originally worried about the quality when I ordered the piece, but I was shocked at how sturdy the headband was when I received it in the mail. I got so many compliments on it when I showed my friends and family!
My Favorite Gatsby Style Headpieces (Under $15!):
Find the Perfect Great Gatsby Attire
In addition to finding the perfect Gatsby style accessories, I also went on a hunt for Gatsby inspired dresses.
I ended up finding my art deco dress on Rent the Runway, which was great because I didn’t actually have to pay out the full price of the dress to only wear it for one photoshoot.
That being said, I’ve found RTR to be kind of hit or miss. Definitely try searching for “art deco” dresses instead of Gatsby inspired dresses wherever you go though, as I found this search to yield many more results.
Below are a few of my favorites that I stumbled upon!
Scout Locations Ahead of Time
Another important aspect of a styled engagement shoot is of course the location!
Most photographers will already have some ideas in mind, but you’ll want to talk this through and take a look at your options well before the shoot to make sure everyone is prepared.
Create a Gatsby Style Inspiration Board
One of my biggest sources of inspiration in planning our Gatsby themed wedding has of course been Pinterest. I have a secret board dedicated to everything from inspiration for this styled shoot, to Gatsby style candy bars and party decor for the big day.
Pinterest is a great way to gain inspiration for your wedding, organize your thoughts, and also serve as a resource for your vendors.
I show ALL my wedding vendors my Pinterest board, so that they have an idea of my vision.
It may sound crazy, but trust me…you don’t want any surprises during this process!
Communicate With Your Photographer Before the Shoot
As I stated earlier, hiring the right photographer is essential in pulling off a Gatsby style engagement shoot.
Make sure you communicate about the theme of your engagement session ahead of time, so that the photographer has time to scout locations and get inspiration for the project.
Communication is key when it comes to wedding and event planning! Don’t just assume that someone knows or understands your vision without clearly communicating it to them first.
Have Fun!
Last but not least, don’t forget to have fun.
Even though wedding planning can feel stressful at times, it’s all worth it in the end when you get to come home to your S.O.
As a blogger I obviously enjoy photoshoots a lot more than the average person, but don’t feel stressed about the idea of being in front of the camera, either.
Your photographer should know how to put you at ease and will tell you how to pose, so just follow the above steps and you’ll be on your way to stunning, memorable Gatsby style engagement shoot!
Are you planning an engagement photo shoot? Do you have any tips or tricks for optimizing this experience?
Thank you to Natalie Sinisgalli Photography for these beautiful photos! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer, definitely check her out — she did my senior portraits and now will be capturing our big day, too…she’s just THAT good!
