As a wedding photographer, I’ve learned to love every part of the day—from the quiet anticipation in the getting-ready suite to the wild joy on the dance floor. But if you ask me what I look forward to most? It's golden hour. That dreamy slice of time just before sunset where everything—and everyone—glows.
Golden hour isn’t just a trend. It’s a tried-and-true photographer’s secret weapon. And when it happens at a venue like Ivy House, where soft light streams through greenery and bounces off clean architecture, the result is nothing short of cinematic.
Let me walk you through why this time of day is so special—and how to make the most of it on your wedding day.
What Is Golden Hour?
Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon and the light turns soft, golden, and diffused. It’s warm, flattering, and wildly romantic.
For photographers, it’s the sweet spot where light behaves beautifully. Shadows are longer and softer, skin glows naturally, and everything takes on a kind of gentle magic that’s almost impossible to replicate with artificial lighting.
At Ivy House, I’ve watched golden hour spill through the greenhouse glass, dance across the foliage, and wrap around couples like a warm embrace. It’s not just beautiful—it’s emotional.
Why Golden Hour Works So Well for Portraits
- Flattering, Soft Light
During golden hour, the harsh midday sun has faded, and what’s left is a buttery light that flatters every skin tone. No squinting, no blown-out highlights, no harsh shadows—just pure, even, natural beauty. - Romantic Atmosphere
Golden hour naturally creates intimacy. You’re usually stepping away from the crowd, just the two of you (and your photographer), into a pocket of quiet light. The shift in energy is tangible—less posed, more present. And that presence shows up in every frame. - Artistic Possibilities
This light isn’t just beautiful—it’s playful. It brings an experiment with silhouettes, lens flares, backlighting, and texture. The light becomes a character in your love story and the results feel straight out of a movie.
How to Plan for Golden Hour on Your Wedding Day
Golden hour changes depending on the time of year, but your photographer and planner can help you nail the timing. Here’s how to make it work:
- Schedule Intentional Portrait Time
Carve out 10–20 minutes in your timeline during the hour before sunset. Even just a short window gives us time for magic. - Consider a Golden Hour “Sneak Away”
You don’t need a full second photo session. I often suggest stepping out during a natural pause—between dinner courses or right after your first dance. - Trust the Light
If your photographer comes to find you mid-reception with a gentle, “Now’s the time,” it’s because the light just turned perfect. You’ll never regret stepping outside for a few glowy moments.
Golden Hour is the Perfect Quiet Moment
If you ask me, golden hour is more than just a time of day—it’s a feeling. It’s the exhale after the ceremony, the quiet moment you finally have to yourselves, the soft glow that wraps around you and says: This is it. You’re here. You’re married.
So yes—when I ask to “steal you away for golden hour,” it’s not just for the photos. It’s for you. For that fleeting, glowy pause you’ll remember forever.
Let the day be loud. Let the party be wild. But don’t miss the quiet, golden moments.
They might just become your favorite.
written by: Ellyse Perkin, Marketing Manager
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