4 Ways to Make Your Engagement Shoot Fun & Ethical : Thinking Outside The Box

Last weekend my husband, Will, and I decided to do an eco conscious and bad as** engagement shoot to showcase some fun ideas for those newly engaged. I rocked a fitted hot pink suit rented from FitzRoy Rentals in Toronto and we enjoyed walking in front of our favourite Italian restaurant Piano Piano.  Keep reading for some tips on how to make your engagement shoot ethical, fun and authentic to you.

1. Rent Fun Outfits, Accessories & Earrings

This is your chance to wear that extravagant outfit you have always dreamed of wearing! The best part? You can rent beautiful (often designer) outfits from the FitzRoy – saving your wallet, and the earth. Each rental is yours for up to four days, so you don’t need to feel rushed after the shoot returning your rentals. Check out their accessory rentals too!

Other rental options in Toronto include – 

Sprout Collection 

Tuxedo Junction

First Class Formal Wear 

2. Purchase Eco Conscious Props

Having something to hold in your hand can make the shoot more unique to you. It can be flowers (fresh or dried), cotton candy, ice cream, or even your pet cat. Just remember to buy from local businesses.  

If you want flowers we suggest buying a bouquet from a florist who can provide you with 100% Ontario grown flowers. This bouquet is from Wildhood, who was able to guarantee us a sustainable local arrangement and a plastic free pickup experience. 

3. Think of an Activity You Both LOVE

What activity is ‘your thing’ as a couple? Is it going to an amusement park every summer, bowling, hiking mountains, watching sunsets at the cottage? Do something you both love together and just have a photographer there to capture it. It’s that simple. Want to get more creative? A romantic overnight trip is in order. Hire a photographer in the area you are traveling to decrease your carbon footprint. 

Here are some great one night getaways that also pose as a super fun engagement shoot activity:

Go Glamping or Stay In a Treehouse At Whispering Springs (90 minutes east of Toronto) 

Go wine tasting in Niagara On The Lake and stay at Pillar and Post Hotel & Spa

Stay a night in the city at The Broadview Hotel and order room service (have you seen the wall paper in the rooms?)

4. Hire A Professional Photographer You Enjoy Spending Time With 

This is KEY. Do not just hire a photographer based on their pricing. Hire a photographer whose personality you love just as much as their photos. This will make the experience more fun and authentic. If you feel awkward in front of the camera, a good photographer will help you feel relaxed in moments.