The queen of bridal believes that brides tend to fall into one of several style categories — individualist, minimalist, modernist, romanticist and traditionalist — she hits all of these notes in her newest collection for David's Bridal, launching in February. 

Check out these exclusive, behind-the-scenes shots from the preview! Be prepared to shriek when you spot the pricetags (out of joy, for once, which is refreshing for us budget brides); nothing costs more than $1,500. 

Recognize this classic design? It was modeled after Kim Kardashian's ceremony gown — but will only set you back $1,500. We love the juxtaposition of the nipped-in Basque waist with the cloud-like tulle. With lace detailing and a cathedral-length train, it's ideal for princess brides. Fun fact: I was so entranced by the back that I almost forgot to snap the front...whoops.

Being an amateur photography enthusiast, I can say—with a little bit of shame mixed in with some self-loathing—that I want to clone myself so that I can stand next to the photographer at my wedding. I would point out, "Oh look, there!" and "Quick, quick, quick; they're having a moment!"

Don’t judge. You know you kinda wish you could, too.

So when I read on various wedding blogs that this magical must-take photo list actually existed (and it was not at all considered to be obnoxious), I was ecstatic, to say the least. Read on for the wedding photo ideas I'm dying to steal!

Photo courtesy of Joey Allen

1. My dress hanging on its own

This baby cost me two months worth of work, so needless to say, she better be getting quite a bit of attention in front of the lens.

Photo courtesy of Joey Allen

2. Our rings

This snapshot is probably the most cliché, but I do think that out of the entire wedding process, the rings don’t get paid as much attention as they should. They will bind us as husband and wife from that day forward.

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Allure Bridal

@bridalguide: "The back of this @AllureBridals gown stopped us dead in our tracks...Gorg!"

Birnbaum & Bullock

left: @bridalguide: "Classic beauty ball gown @BirnbaumBullock."
right: @bridalguide: "Ball gown worthy of Grace Kelly."

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Anna Maier

left: @bridalguide: "Beautiful blooms cascade down this Anna Maier gown!"
right: @bridalguide: "Love this triple tier gown at Anna Maier."

@bridalguide: "Modern bubble hem gown at Anna Maier."

Anne Barge

Check out more Anne Barge styles in our gown gallery!

Our fashion editor Naima is reporting live from the New York City runways! Get the scoop on the latest bridal trends from each designer collection in 140 characters or less.

Amsale Bridal

Check out more Amsale in our gown gallery!

left: @bridalguide: "Perfect party dress @amsalebridal love the ribbon skirt!"
right: @bridalguide: "Lots of asymmetrical necklines in the @AmsaleBridal collection LOVE!"

Each bride is different: Some have all the details of their dream wedding planned years prior to finding a groom and others are perfectly content with a quickie courthouse ceremony. Most of us fall somewhere in between, and when it comes to grooms, the same rule applies (okay, they likely haven't dreamt of EVERY detail).

From my experience, the level of your groom's involvement will fluctuate depending on which wedding-planning task you're currently working on. It's up to both of you to decide which aspects of the wedding you'll contribute to equally. Here is a breakdown of tasks Corey has helped with, ranging in order from most to least involved with:

1. Venue

While Corey and I were searching for places, we were living in separate states and he would often complain that he wished he was in Indianapolis so that he could be touring venues with me. In the end, we chose a venue that I toured once solo and together as a couple. I'm really glad that Corey cared about the venue (almost) as much as I did. I can definitely see how factors like chandeliers and stunning downtown views might not be of interest to some grooms.

2. Atmosphere

Corey and I both want our reception to be fun, which means having a great DJ and free-flowing drinks. We both don't want magicians, clowns or anything out of the ordinary. However, not all couples are in accordance about what they constitute as a form of entertainment. 

Since my engagement, I’ve been taking full advantage of my new role as bride-to-be, wearing white to every wedding-related event. Our engagement party? Searching for our venue? Shopping for my wedding gown? You guessed it — I showed up to each occasion decked out in ivory. I plan on continuing this tradition at my bridal shower next year…with an unexpected twist.