Hey there! I'm a professional Portrait & Wedding photographer located in College Station, Texas that specializes in Aggie Senior/Grad Portraits and Wedding Photography. I'm sharing a list of the exact gear I own and use at every session and wedding that I photograph. I've been a photographer since 2013 and have learned so much in the last decade. If you'd like to see the beautiful image I create from using the following recommended gear, please visit my photography business website at laurylharvey.com . I hope my recommendations help you create beautiful art too!
These are some of the essentials my husband and I used for our big day! I'm always happy to help so comment if you need more info on anything or more ideas!
Destination weddings are becoming more and more common. The special thing about them is that there's not as much of a pressure in looking so formal. Destination weddings are all about feeling pretty, light and dainty. So here goes...
Pink themed bat mitzvah party decorations, invitations, and favors with personalized name over the white Star of David. Lots of cute desserts and welcome signs with your photo. Favorite pink dresses at the bottom of the list.
Brides on a budget! Sharing my GREAT finds that I actually used in my 2025 Valentines wedding! I hope this saves you time in your searching and also saves you money! When you’re planning a wedding, every penny counts! :)
My bachelorette party was themed Last Trail Before the Veil. We stayed at the cutest cabin in the Red River Gorge. If you are looking at a similar theme such as Camp Bachelorette or Last Trail Before the Veil I hope this gives you some inspo. Some of it's decor. Some of it is gifts for your bridesmaids and friends.
Pro wedding dress flipper since 2016 ~ Only sharing tried and tested products ➕ Details & Tips in the CommentsI use all of the following to care for my gowns & refurbish worn dresses.Although I am a professional, these are all household-level items that perform at a professional level and can benefit you in other ways.I also try to keep things budget-friendly and cute ~ because let's be real, no one wants to put their wedding dress in an ugly overpriced bag or outdated box. Some people are SO scared of preserving, cleaning, or even steaming their wedding gowns, but with a little bit of know-how, you don't have to be! Save the bank, steam it yourself the night before your wedding. Clean at home - it's eco-friendly and cost-effective. Pack yourself for peace of mind. I hate to say it, but no one cares as much as you do about your wedding dress. Sadly, some dry cleaners don't at all.Bonus for the brave budget brides ~ BUY USED and then use these tips and tutorials on my website to bring that wedding dress back to brand new. If you're one of my lovely colorful brides, GET OUT OF HERE. Just message me, gown cleaning is on the house, I got you covered to keep that work of art prime.
Thinking of asking for their hand in marriage? Check out this list of resorts that will be perfect for that unforgettable moment! If you need assistance or have more questiosn about these resorts feel free to contact me!
These wedding day essentials include elegant bridal accessories, bridesmaid essentials, getting-ready items, jewelry, hair accessories, slippers, and wedding day must-haves — all budget-friendly and perfect for brides who want a beautiful, stress-free wedding.
For a lake escape, destination wedding, check out these gorgeous locations for your wedding day. Lake of the Ozarks is it all for wedding venues. From lake side views to barn weddings with available cabins for the bride and groom. Visit Lake of the Ozarks for your wedding venue needs.
My essential wedding photography kit; bags, harnesses, lenses, backups, and an emergency kit! Everything I need to capture every moment with ease and confidence!💅🏼
When asking my bridesmaids to be in my bridal party, I had no idea where to start in curating the perfect box of goodies. As someone who has been on both sides of the bridesmaid proposal box - here are my top picks that are sure to be useful to your bridal party :)
Go ahead and RSVP “yes” to that wedding invite — because you’re going to want an excuse to wear these dresses! This list of gorgeous wedding guest looks is organized by season to make your search effortless. Let me know which one’s your favorite! 😍
Inspo for your wedding (whether you're engaged, just dating, or even single)! Every girl dreams of getting to be the bride someday... I recently got engaged and I can't stop thinking about it. I am just so happy. I also just love weddings 🥹
As a wedding and couples photographer who prioritizes comfort while still looking professional, these are my tried and true go-to repeat outfits! As someone who tries to be money-conscious, I do try to find cheaper options of my favorites, or buy clothes when they're on clearance from my favorite name brands.
Everything I’ve loved (or wish I’d had) for wedding season — whether you're planning your own, helping a friend, or just looking for inspo. From bachelorette party ideas and outfit finds to makeup, wedding day must-haves, and vendor recs, this list covers a little bit of everything. Most of it can work for anyone, but since I'm in Kansas City, the location-based ideas (like venues, vendors, and activities) are KC-inspired.
I just got a text!! ||| During the summer, I look forward to the new seasons of Love Island and Love Island USA. This year was my first time hosting and attending Love Island themed parties, I can't wait to do another!
💍 As a 2025 bride myself, I know how overwhelming (and exciting!) it can be pulling all the details together. This list is filled with the invitations, stationery, signage, and little extras that helped me bring my wedding vision to life. Think of it as your shortcut to the pretty pieces that make the whole day feel seamless and special. If you’re in the middle of planning, I hope this saves you time, stress, and gives you a touch of inspo for your own big day!
Getting married at 22 meant planning a wedding on a budget, while having a boujee wedding in mind. My wedding turned out gorgeous and these are all of my favorite things from my special day!
As a recent college grad, engagement season is coming at me from every direction. These are some of my favorite finds for putting together a thoughtful gift for the engaged girls in your life!
This is a list of dresses you can wear to your formal event or wedding without breaking the bank AND still looking like a million bucks. I love originality and wanted to link pieces I necessarily haven’t seen before!
Celebrate Valentine’s Day every day with meaningful gifts and thoughtful ideas for the people you love. Discover romantic, sentimental, and everyday gift inspiration for partners, family, and friends—perfect for anniversaries, date nights, self-love, and making every day feel special.
I got engaged on December 5th, 2021, and married on October 1st, 2022! Planning my big day was such a journey, especially finding the perfect outfits for all the special moments—engagement party, engagement shoot, bridal shower, and of course, the wedding day! For all the brides-to-be, I’ve put together a list of my favorite outfits to help make your events unforgettable! 💍👰✨
As a soon to be bride that is doing her own makeup, hair, and diy-ing most of her decor, these are some of my favorite AFFORDABLE recommendations. I’ve split it up into sections to make it easier to follow 💍
I feel like since we've been engaged I haven't looked at any of the fun stuff because I've been so focused on baby. This curation is of all the things I would want for fits for bachelorette trip, couples shower or bridal shower.
Quinceanera invitations can get really repetitive as far as the designs go…I've been making some and I'm going to be adding some that don't follow the “normal” design themes, but are a little more sophisticated. I'll add more here as I get to them, and I've also added some that I've found on other sites.
A curated collection of all the outfits, accessories, and inspiration I’m loving as I plan for my May 2026 wedding. From bachelorette trip essentials to shower looks and the details for my wedding day, this board keeps everything I’m eyeing in one beautiful place while I get ready to say “I do.”
Planning a rehearsal dinner doesn’t have to break the bank to feel elegant and memorable. This list highlights beautiful venues, decor ideas, and thoughtful touches that create a warm, sophisticated atmosphere without overspending. It’s perfect for couples or families looking to host a stunning celebration that feels personal, polished, and budget-friendly.
All things wedding! Currently planning my wedding and it has been stressful! Here are some helpful recommendations so you don’t have to search as hard as I did!
I love love. Valentine’s day can be such a special occasion to celebrate your partner as well as your friends- i love galentines to! I’ve put together a guide from your gifting needs to make this valentines special and stress free
A hand-picked collection of rich burgundy wedding finds with timeless vintage charm. Deep wine florals, antique gold accents, candlelight, and heirloom-inspired textures.
Some of my absolute favorite designs for the 2025 holiday season - family Christmas cards, newlywed cards and ornaments, trendy striped gift wrap, gift tags and more. Obsessed with this style and the fun flourishes.
Look, I’ve been to my fair share of weddings—some in vineyards, some in Vegas chapels, one in a barn that smelled faintly of hay and regret. And every single time, the same question pops up: “What on earth do I wear?” This isn’t some stiff, rule-heavy manual. It’s a friendly, no-BS roundup of dresses that actually work—whether you’re dealing with a “cocktail” invite that means nothing, a destination wedding in July, or your cousin’s ultra-formal church ceremony. Plus, real photos, real price ranges, and a gentle reminder: please, for the love of all things holy, skip the white.
Looking to give a wedding gift that wows but doesn’t just sit in a cabinet? This curated guide is packed with luxury gift ideas that are equal parts stunning and seriously useful — perfect for couples who appreciate both form and function. From premium kitchen must-haves like a pizza oven and stand mixer, to beautiful and practical home upgrades like a robot vacuum mop or digital photo frame, these gifts are sure to be cherished (and used!) long after the honeymoon.
Think: statement-making and smart — espresso machines, heirloom-quality chess sets, high-end cookware, smart calendars, and more. Whether you’re the generous guest, family member, or part of the wedding party, this guide takes the guesswork out of gifting.
One thing that our couples are always looking for are great Rehearsal Dinner Venues. Here is a list of some of the best in Charlotte, sectioned out by area!
This is a list of everything I used/had at my wedding in the fall of 2024! I DIY'd a lot of things, had wood sola flowers, had a very small guest list to make it feel cozy & more manageable to talk to everyone, and I made most of the signs with Canva!!
Once I got engaged, I started to realize just how tough it was to plan a Pagan Commitment Ceremony. Hopefully, these ideas might help you as your plan your big day!
Set her party apart from everyone else's with beautiful, carefully curated matching coquette pink bow graduation party decorations for an unbelievably magical evening!
Whether you're planning a kids’ birthday bash, a chic adult dinner party, or a milestone celebration like a Sweet 16 or 40th, this list is full of creative themes, stylish invites, and personalized details to make the day unforgettable. From fun party graphics to elegant stationery and matching decor, these picks are curated to help you celebrate every birthday with personality and flair.
Need some inspiration on wedding party proposal gifts or day of thank you gifts? Here is a collection of ideas ranging from meaningful keepsakes they’ll treasure forever to practical picks they’ll actually use!
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Now that I am past my shower and wedding, I have that 20/20 hindsight. Here are things that I have LOVED! Some I registered for and some I bought later and wish I registered for!
I’ve picked out the most affordable bride jewelry options that don’t sacrifice style! From stunning earrings to elegant necklaces, these pieces are perfect for brides who want to look gorgeous without breaking the bank. Check out these budget-friendly bridal jewelry ideas for your big day!
A stress-free, step-by-step digital checklist that turns the chaos of bar/bat mitzvah planning into a joyful, organized celebration. Designed for busy parents, you’ll honor the milestone without losing your mind.
Whether the bride-to-be is a Western girlie or not, Disco cowgirl & Last Rodeo bachelorette are hot themes! Its fun, quirky, and allows you to mix a few aesthetics with the vibrant pink shades that are perfect for this type of party celebrating the soon to be Mrs.
I just exited my bridal era with a wedding in Fall 2025 and loved every minute. Here are some of my favorite picks for anyone entering their bride era! 🤍👰♀️💍🕊️
As a maid of honor, one of my duties was hosting the bride's bridal shower. Coming up with the theme and buying items for it was a blast. Here is a list of some of the items the bride and/or guests loved the most that stood out.
I made this list because it can be SO stressful finding the perfect wedding gift. This list has a wide variety of options at all different price points.
These are all of the faves I've purchased for our 2026 wedding in Brazil!! Some of the items that ALMOST made the cut had to end up on this list too - they're too good to pass up!
As more couples opt for intimate weddings and meaningful experiences, elopements have become a popular choice. This collection of elopement cards features designs with and without photos, cards with custom announcement messages, and some with wedding reception/after party invite details, so that all your needs are covered!
Valentines is coming up! I know some couples roll their eyes and call it commercial, but it's still special to my husband and I. And don't let the title fool you, I LOVE chocolate (and flowers). However, I know that a little thought goes a long way. Here is a list of things that are thoughtful gifts that will hopefully bring a smile.
When my husband and I got married, we went to the courthouse and had a very small get together at a restaurant with close family and friends. For our 5 year vow renewal, we are making it a mission to have that dream wedding that every couple dreams of. This list shows everything that
every 2026 it-couple's dream registry. ranging from many previously owned goodies to some of the more highly coveted ones. for the couple with great taste and style, building a chic home together, there is something for everyone on this list. inspired by our own personal wedding gift registry and we hope that it can help to inspire yours as well. (still in progress)
This this is the ultimate wrapping list to get everything essential to wrap your gifts year round.. I am definitely jealous of the wrap cutter. I feel like Im super disorganized with our pile of wrapping paper so lets come up with some solutions.
✨ Step into the spotlight with our Life of a Showgirl costume and party ideas guide! Whether you’re planning a Vegas showgirl–themed party, a dazzling burlesque night, or looking for the perfect showgirl Halloween costume, this list is packed with glamorous inspiration. Discover sparkling costume ideas, feathered accessories, DIY showgirl looks, and party décor that will turn any event into a dazzling performance. Perfect for bachelorette parties, themed birthdays, or Vegas-inspired celebrations, these showgirl ideas will make your night unforgettable
When I was wedding planning in the fall of 2022, it was so important to me to thank the people in my wedding party and family with sentimental, heartfelt gifts. These loved ones put in so much time and effort to be there for you to celebrate your big day! I'm a huge believer that these thank-you gestures don't have to be expensive to be touching, useful, and memorable.
Celebrate the end of an era and the final eras tour show in style with these stunning party ideas and decorations to help close the door on a chapter we are sure to never forget 💖✨
CONGRATS on your engagement! I’ve curated your one stop shop if you’re looking for some guidance while putting together your Bridal party proposal gifts! I’m getting married next year and here are a few things I’m looking at getting for my squad when I ask them to be my Bridesmaids and MOH! 💍 hopefully one less thing to worry about when you’re busy planning your wedding.
These items are straight off my notes in my phone of items I’ve bought for my wedding or plan to buy! I deep dove into hundreds of websites finding the best dresses, shoes, and accessories.
Spring is time for garden parties and that’s why I thought to share my picks for all the cool things that can make any party special.
Birthday parties happen all year around. And a cocktail party doesn’t have a season, it can happen any time and they are fun.
To make your party super special you only need one or two thing that will stand out.
Pick from my list and have a great party! 🎉🍸🍹🍷
The perfect blend of Boho and Farmhouse charm for my dream wedding with my handpicked recommendations and favorite finds, with weathered wooden signs, and vintage-inspired lace accents. Elevate your tablescape with a mix of greenery and babies breath florals. My collection includes a boho-farmhouse vibe.