Submitting weddings for publication can be a game-changer for wedding pros aiming to attract their ideal clients. But let’s face it—not every wedding is publication-worthy, and the submission process can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why this guide is here to help you out! We’ll dive into why being featured is so important, who can actually submit weddings, how to make sure every vendor gets the credit they deserve, and why copyright considerations matter. Plus, we’ll explore the top wedding magazines and websites, give you tips on tracking your submissions, and what to do once you’ve scored that publication feature.

Why Getting Featured is Crucial

Attracting Ideal Clients

Getting featured in a wedding magazine or blog significantly boosts your visibility. Publications are often browsed by engaged couples looking for inspiration, making them prime platforms for showcasing your work to potential clients. A feature in a reputable publication can position you as an industry leader, enhancing your credibility and making you more attractive to your ideal clients.

Enhancing Your Portfolio

Being featured allows you to showcase your work in a highly polished and curated manner. This not only enhances your portfolio but also provides you with high-quality images and stories to share on your website and social media platforms. A strong portfolio with featured work can differentiate you from competitors.

Building Industry Relationships

Submitting weddings for publication isn’t just about showcasing beautiful events—it’s a fantastic way to nurture collaboration and build meaningful relationships within the wedding industry. When you submit your weddings, you’re opening the door to working closely with other vendors, and this collaborative spirit doesn’t go unnoticed. By recognizing and celebrating their contributions, you’re not only fostering a supportive network but also paving the way for future referrals and exciting partnerships.

As you engage with other professionals and highlight their roles, you’re creating a ripple effect of goodwill and shared success. This supportive approach can lead to new opportunities and strengthen your connections in the industry. So, dive into the process of wedding submissions with enthusiasm and watch as these efforts turn into lasting relationships and valuable business growth.

Who Can Submit Weddings?

Photographers

Photographers are typically the primary submitters of wedding features, given that they have access to the professional photos required for submissions. They can curate the visual story of the wedding, making it appealing to editors and readers.

Planners and Designers

Wedding planners and designers often have a comprehensive view of the wedding, making them ideal candidates for submitting. They can provide detailed insights into the theme, decor, and unique elements that make the wedding stand out.

Florists, Bakers, and Other Vendors

While it’s not as common, florists, bakers, and other vendors can absolutely submit weddings too. This works especially well if their creations steal the show, like a breathtaking floral arrangement or a jaw-dropping cake.

Couples

Some publications allow couples to submit their weddings. This can be beneficial as they can provide a personal narrative and unique perspective on their special day. However, professional images are still a must.

How to Ensure All Vendors Get Credit When Submitting Weddings

Create a Vendor List

Before submitting, compile a comprehensive list of all vendors involved in the wedding. This should include their business names, contact information, and a brief description of their contributions. This ensures that everyone gets proper recognition.

Verify Details

First and foremost, double-check all vendor details to ensure accuracy. After all, incorrect or incomplete information can lead to missed credits, which might strain your professional relationships. If something seems off, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vendors to confirm their details. This simple step can save you from potential headaches down the road!

Include Social Media Handles

Many publications now include vendor social media handles in their features. Including these in your submission helps increase the visibility and reach of all parties involved.

Highlight Unique Contributions

If a vendor played a standout role in making the wedding truly special, don’t hesitate to shine a spotlight on their unique contribution in your submission. By highlighting their exceptional work, you’re not only giving them the well-deserved credit they’ve earned, but you’re also adding layers of depth and intrigue to the overall story of the wedding. This extra touch of detail helps paint a richer, more vivid picture and ensures that the amazing efforts of everyone involved are celebrated. Plus, it makes your submission stand out even more, showcasing the collaboration and creativity that brought the wedding to life.

Copyright Considerations for Photographers and Couples

Understanding Copyright

Copyright is a legal right that grants the creator of original work exclusive rights to its use and distribution. In the context of wedding photography, the photographer typically owns the copyright to the images they capture. This means they have control over how and where the images are used.

Photographers’ Rights

Photographers should include a clause in their contracts that outlines their copyright ownership and how the images can be used by the couple and other vendors. This helps prevent unauthorized use and ensures that proper credit is given when images are shared or published. Photographers can also grant specific usage rights, such as allowing the couple to share images on social media or providing high-resolution files for personal use.

Couples’ Rights

Couples should understand their rights regarding the use of their wedding photos. While they typically have personal use rights, they should respect the photographer’s copyright and adhere to any restrictions outlined in their contract. This includes obtaining permission before submitting photos to publications or sharing them with other vendors.

Securing Permission for Submissions

Before submitting a wedding for publication, it is essential to secure permission from both the photographer and the couple. Photographers need to agree to the use of their images, and couples should consent to having their wedding story shared publicly. This step ensures that all parties are aware of and comfortable with the submission process.

Proper Attribution

When submitting photos, always provide proper attribution to the photographer. This typically includes their name, business name, and website or social media handles. Proper attribution not only respects the photographer’s work but also helps build their professional reputation.

Top Wedding Magazines and Websites

Print Magazines

Martha Stewart Weddings

Known for its elegant and timeless style, Martha Stewart Weddings is a top choice for many wedding professionals. They feature a mix of real weddings, expert advice, and stunning photography.

Brides

Brides magazine is a household name in the wedding industry. They feature a wide range of weddings, from intimate elopements to grand celebrations, making it an excellent platform for diverse styles.

The Knot

The Knot is one of the most well-known wedding brands. Their magazine features real weddings, planning tips, and vendor spotlights, making it a great choice for getting your work seen by a broad audience.

Online Blogs

Style Me Pretty

Style Me Pretty is a leading wedding blog known for its beautiful photography and curated content. They accept submissions from photographers, planners, and other vendors, focusing on chic, stylish weddings.

Wedding Chicks

Wedding Chicks features a mix of real weddings, DIY projects, and bridal fashion. Their approachable style and extensive audience make it an excellent platform for showcasing your work.

Green Wedding Shoes

Green Wedding Shoes is known for its creative and non-traditional approach to weddings. They feature unique and artistic weddings, making it a perfect fit for those with a more unconventional style.

LGBTQ+ Publications

Equally Wed

Equally Wed known as the leading LGBTQ+ wedding magazine that celebrates love and diversity. They feature real weddings, engagement stories, and expert advice, making it an excellent platform for LGBTQ+ couples and vendors.

Love Inc.

Love Inc. is an inclusive wedding magazine that features content for all couples. They celebrate equality and diversity, offering a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ wedding submissions.

Dancing With Her

Dancing With Her is an international publication dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ women in love. They feature real weddings, elopements, and engagements, providing a supportive platform for LGBTQ+ couples.

International Publications

Junebug Weddings

Junebug Weddings is an internationally recognized blog that features stunning photography and unique wedding stories worldwide. It accepts submissions from both wedding professionals and couples; moreover, it provides a platform for showcasing diverse perspectives and ideas.

Wedding Sparrow

Wedding Sparrow is a fine art blog showcasing beautiful, film-inspired weddings. They feature work from international photographers and vendors, making it a great platform for global submissions.

Tracking Submissions

Create a Submission Tracker

Develop a system for tracking your submissions. This can be as simple as a spreadsheet or as sophisticated as a project management tool. Key details to track include the publication name, date of submission, status (e.g., submitted, under review, accepted, published), and any follow-up actions required.

Set Reminders

Set reminders to follow up on submissions that haven’t received a response. A polite follow-up email can demonstrate your professionalism and keep your submission at the forefront of editors’ minds.

Monitor Publication Schedules

Familiarize yourself with the publication schedules of the outlets you’re submitting to. Some publications have specific themes or seasonal focuses, and aligning your submissions with these can increase your chances of being featured.

Record Feedback

If you receive feedback on a rejected submission, record this information. Constructive feedback can help you refine future submissions and increase your chances of success.

What to Do After Being Published

Congratulations! You’ve made it into print or online, and now it’s time to leverage your success to its fullest potential. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next:

Share on Social Media

First things first: spread the word! Share your published work across all your social media platforms. Tag the publication and every vendor involved to maximize your reach and boost engagement. By doing so, not only do you amplify your visibility, but you also shine a light on the contributions of your collaborators, creating a win-win situation for everyone.

Update Your Portfolio

Next, don’t forget to update your portfolio. Make sure to feature the publication prominently, especially if it’s a well-known magazine or a respected blog. This addition will bolster your credibility and make a strong impression on potential clients who are looking for proven expertise.

Send Thank You Notes

Gratitude goes a long way! Send personalized thank-you notes to both the publication and all the vendors who played a role in the feature. Expressing your appreciation not only fosters positive relationships but also paves the way for future collaborations. A little thank you can open doors to even more exciting opportunities down the road.

Leverage the Feature in Marketing

Harness the power of your feature to supercharge your marketing efforts. Mention the feature in your newsletters, and consider blogging about the experience to engage your audience. Highlighting these successes during client consultations can further bolster your reputation. Using the phrase “As seen in…” on your website and marketing materials can significantly enhance your appeal to potential clients, making your services even more attractive.

Maximize Your Submission Strategy

Remember, submitting weddings for publication isn’t just a one-time effort; it’s a valuable strategy for attracting your ideal clients and enhancing your industry presence. Navigating this complex process involves understanding submission guidelines, giving proper credit to all vendors, respecting copyright laws, and targeting the right publications. By keeping track of your submissions and making the most of your published work, you can fully capitalize on the opportunities that arise.

By following these steps, you’ll turn a publication feature into a powerful tool for growing your business and boosting your brand’s credibility.

Need help with submitting your weddings for publication? Our expert Virtual Assistants are here to support you every step of the way. Book a call with us today to discover how we can assist in getting your work featured in top wedding publications.