Inside the Wedding Day Walk Through Workshop 2025: A Hands-On Learning Experience for Photographers

The Wedding Day Walk Through Photography Workshop was designed to give photographers a real-time, immersive experience that mimics an actual wedding day—from start to finish. Held in the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this hands-on workshop allowed attendees to step into the shoes of a wedding photographer, learning how to plan, shoot, and manage each part of the day with confidence and creativity. From styling bridal details and working with couples to mastering the flow of the ceremony and reception, this workshop was the ultimate opportunity for photographers to refine their craft and elevate their client experience. Whether you’re just starting your wedding photography journey or looking to sharpen your skills, this workshop was packed with valuable, actionable insights you can take straight into your next wedding.

This year, we made a little shift and transformed the workshop into a 2-day experience instead of our usual 3-day format. I’ll admit—it felt a little strange at first not having that extra day, but as everything unfolded, it truly came together beautifully.

Day 1 kicked off with a deep dive into photographing those meaningful wedding details and creating elevated, intentional flat lays. We also spent time walking through the ins and outs of crafting a seamless timeline and guiding your couples through the wedding planning journey. Honestly, I could have talked about all of this for another full day—there’s just so much joy in sharing what goes on behind the scenes and helping photographers feel confident in their client experience!

Dara of Bespoke and Beloved Events led a beautiful and insightful breakout session on the art of flat lay styling, sharing her favorite tips, tricks, and must-have tools to elevate each composition. With her expert guidance, attendees gained fresh inspiration and practical techniques, just in time to roll up their sleeves and create their own stunning flat lays on Saturday. It was such a fun, hands-on way to blend creativity with education!

The stunning bridal gowns and bridesmaid dress were on loan from the fabulous marwinbridal in Irwin.

My longtime friend from college, trusted colleague, and photography bestie Kara Abbey of Kara Abbey Photography and Content Creation joined us for the Wedding Day Walk Through Workshop—and it was such a gift having her there! Not only did she capture some truly stunning behind-the-scenes moments from the weekend, but she also led an inspiring breakout session on Sunday. Kara dove into the difference between shooting content for your clients versus content for yourself, and shared invaluable insights on planning, scheduling, and posting with intention.

Darling matching stationary was created by Erin with @FreshCutPrints.

Tantalizing and tasty macarons were provided by @maisycakesbakes.

Day 2 was where the magic truly came to life, our full-scale “faux wedding day” designed to mirror a real wedding as closely as possible. From the quiet, intimate moments of the bride and groom getting ready, to the sweet emotions of the ceremony, and ending with joyful toasts and a romantic first dance, the day flowed just like an actual wedding timeline.

It was a beautifully immersive experience that allowed attendees to step into the rhythm of a true wedding day, applying everything they’d learned in real time. With cameras in hand and creativity flowing, it became a space where teaching, learning, and photographing all came together seamlessly. It was an absolutely packed day with valuable hands-on moments that truly helped bring the workshop full circle.

Our talented hair stylist Jennifer with hairapy133 and make-up artist Moriah with moriah_jlmakeupstudio.

The dapper groom and groomsmen looks were provided by @generationtux.

The stunning, new to her collection settee, was provided by Mikette with @vintagealleyrentalspgh.

The exquisite florals were designed and artistically brought to life by Dani with @dani.aprettyflower.

The delicate and delectable looking cake was created by none other than Emily with @fouroaksbakery.

As if one beautiful couple wasn’t enough, the magic continued after our faux wedding day with a second stunning “bride and groom” moment. Our sweet maid of honor and best man stepped into their own faux wedding attire, giving photographers even more opportunities to get creative and build their portfolios.

Set inside the elegant and historic Maverick Hotel, a charmingly restored former YMCA in downtown Easton, Pennsylvania—this portion of the workshop offered a whole new layer of inspiration. With its timeless architecture, the hotel served as the perfect backdrop. The grand stairwell and the romantic Mignonette Room were transformed into elegant photo locations, ideal for capturing editorial-style portraits.

This extended shoot gave attendees the chance to explore new perspectives, practice posing techniques, and experience the beauty of photographing in a luxury wedding venue full of character and charm.

A heartfelt shout-out to my incredible partner-in-creativity, Dara of Bespoke and Beloved Events, for joining me once again for another unforgettable Wedding Day Walk Through Workshop! Dara is not only the ultimate timekeeper (seriously, she keeps us all on track!) but also the visionary behind the stunning wedding day décor and styling that brings each space to life.

Together, we carefully style—and re-style—the workshop experience to reflect both current wedding trends and timeless design elements. Every detail is intentionally crafted to align with the aesthetic of that year’s wedding venue and vendor team, giving attendees an elevated, editorial-worthy setting to learn and photograph in.

From lush tablescapes to beautifully curated ceremony setups, Dara’s touch is truly everywhere, and this workshop wouldn’t be the same without her passion and expertise. I’m beyond grateful to have her by my side, helping make each workshop feel like a real wedding day and providing our attendees with a one-of-a-kind, immersive photography experience.

Photo credit to Kara Abbey for so kindly taking a photo of the two of us. 🙂

The talented vendor team that brought the Wedding Day Walk Through Workshop vision to life:

Venue: @maverickhotelpgh

Photographer: @JacksonSignaturePhotography

Main Wedding Planner: @bespoke_and_beloved

Cake & Desserts: @fouroaksbakery

Content Creator: @karabbey

Florist: @dani.aprettyflower

Supporting Wedding Planner: @joyfilledoccasions

Bridal Salon: @marwinbridal

Stationary: @FreshCutPrints

Hairstylist: @hairapy133

Make-up Artist: @moriah_jlmakeupstudio  &  @jlstudio_hairandmakeup

Tux Rental: @generationtux

Decor Rentals: @vintagealleyrentalspgh

Macarons: @maisycakesbakes

DON’T MISS OUT on the NEXT WORKSHOP! If you would like to receive an email about the next the Wedding Day Walk Through Workshop or other workshops that we host, you can sign-up HERE. For mentorship, follow the link HERE.