First off—CONGRATULATIONS!
You just got engaged, and now you're entering one of the most exciting chapters of your life. Whether you’re already deep in Pinterest boards or just soaking in the moment (and staring at that gorgeous ring nonstop), I’m here to help you kick off your wedding planning in the best way possible! As a wedding photographer capturing love stories all over Dallas and Denton, I’ve got all the insider tips to make this journey smooth, stress-free, and—most importantly—FUN!
Paschall Bar in Denton, TX
Step 1: Get That Ring Insured
Before you start waving that sparkler all over Instagram, let’s make sure it’s protected! Here are some of the best places to insure your engagement ring in Dallas & Denton:
- Jewelers Mutual (Highly rated for jewelry-specific insurance)
- State Farm or Allstate (Great if you already have a policy with them!)
- Lavalier Jewelry Insurance (Easy online quotes & great coverage)
Your ring is a symbol of your love, so let’s keep it safe!
Step 2: Celebrate With an Engagement Party!
Gather your favorite people and pop some bubbly—it's time to celebrate! Here are some of the best local spots to throw an unforgettable engagement party:
- The Tipsy Oak (Arlington) – Cozy and casual with amazing food & drinks
- HG Sply Co. (Dallas & Fort Worth) – Rooftop vibes and craft cocktails
- Hannah’s Off the Square (Denton) – Chic, intimate, and perfect for a stylish gathering
- Whiskey Cake (Plano & Las Colinas) – Farm-to-table deliciousness with a great atmosphere
Step 3: Book Your Engagement Photos!
This is where the fun really begins! Engagement sessions are the perfect way to celebrate this milestone, get comfortable in front of the camera, and capture this exciting season of your life. Plus, they make for gorgeous save-the-date cards! Here are some of my favorite locations for engagement sessions in the Dallas & Denton area:
- Murrell Park (Flower Mound) – Lake views, golden fields, and dreamy sunsets
- Paschall Bar (Denton) - Hey! That's where these sultry photos were taken
- Downtown Dallas – Sleek city vibes with iconic architecture and hidden gems
- Adriatica Village (McKinney) – A little slice of European romance right here in Texas
- TWU Gardens & Greenhouse (Denton) – Vintage charm with lush greenery and beautiful golden light
💡 Pro Tip: Book your engagement session at least 6–9 months before the wedding to use the photos for invitations, guest books, or wedding websites!
Step 4: Secure Your Wedding Dream Team
The best vendors book FAST—so now’s the time to lock in the must-haves for your big day! Looking for a fabulous wedding planner? Here are a few of my faves who work magic in the Dallas/Denton area:
- Each & Every Detail – A full-service wedding planning team that handles everything flawlessly
- Lasting Memories Wedding & Events – A dream team known for elegant and stress-free wedding days
- Events & Experiences – Chic, modern, and full of fresh ideas
💡 Pro Tip: Your wedding photographer (that’s me! 😉) should be one of the first vendors you book, especially if you’re getting married during peak season!
Step 5: Set Your Wedding Date & Venue
Dallas and Denton have some of the most stunning wedding venues—whether you're dreaming of a grand ballroom, a rustic barn, or a charming garden ceremony. Here are a few gems worth checking out:
- The Olana (Hickory Creek) – A French-inspired estate that is pure luxury
- The Nest at Ruth Farms (Ponder) – A dreamy white barn with countryside elegance
- Little Chapel in the Woods (Denton) – Historic, romantic, and oh-so-photogenic
- Whispering Oaks – Classic Texas beauty with versatile options
💡 Pro Tip: Ask your venue about weekday or off-season discounts if you’re looking to stretch your budget!
Step 6: Start Dreaming About Your Wedding Style & Vision
Now comes the fun part—picking your wedding colors, florals, and vibe! Whether you’re all about timeless elegance, boho romance, or modern glam, Pinterest and bridal magazines are great places to start.
Check out some of our FAVORITE florists:
- Dr. Delphinium Designs & Events (Dallas) – Luxe floral artistry with modern and timeless designs
- Vine & Branches – Locally loved for stunning, romantic arrangements
- Petals Couture (Dallas/Fort Worth) – Elegant, high-end floral creations for a show-stopping look
- A&L Floral Design (Dallas) – Known for dreamy, organic-inspired bouquets and décor
- Wild Rose Events (Dallas) – Whimsical and modern floral installations with a creative touch
And of course, your photographer (hi, that’s me! 👋) is here to help with inspiration! I’ll guide you through everything—from engagement session outfit ideas to wedding day timelines—so you feel confident and excited every step of the way.
Step 7: Let’s Make It Official!
I’d LOVE to be part of your wedding journey and capture every moment of your love story! My approach is all about keeping things natural, fun, and stress-free—because your wedding day should be filled with joy, not awkward poses.
Let’s chat about your big day! Fill out my contact form here: April Pinto Photography
Still have questions? Need vendor recommendations? Let’s make wedding magic happen together! Can’t wait to hear all about your love story. ❤️
Cheers to the best adventure yet!
CLIENT LOVE
Ashley + Michael
“I recently had the pleasure of working with April and I can’t recommend her enough! From our very first interaction, she was incredibly sweet and made me feel at ease. Her warm personality and genuine enthusiasm for photography truly set her apart.
During the shoot, April was not only professional but also incredibly fun to work with. They had a fantastic ability to capture candid moments while providing just the right amount of direction to help me feel comfortable in front of the camera.”
