At Sarah Cornwell Jewelry, we love seeing how our pieces become part of life’s most meaningful celebrations—especially weddings. So when we had the chance to sit down with award-winning wedding photographer Erin McGeever, we jumped at the opportunity. Erin’s work has been featured in VOGUE and BRIDES, and her artistic eye and calm, confident presence behind the lens have made her a go-to for couples looking to capture their big day with style and soul.
We talked with Erin about the jewelry and styling trends she’s seeing from behind the camera this season—from how brides are dressing their bridal parties to the unexpected, sentimental moments that make it into the frame. Her answers were thoughtful, inspiring, and full of helpful insights for anyone planning a wedding or simply dreaming up their look.
SC: From your perspective behind the lens, what trends are you noticing in how brides are styling their bridal parties with jewelry? Are you seeing more matching sets, mixed metals, or something entirely new?
EM: I’m seeing way more coordination than matching—similar to the mismatched dress trend, brides are giving more freedom to their bridal party in their jewelry selections! For example, the bridal party may be asked to wear varying styles in silver, vs. all wearing the exact same silver necklace and earrings. Zodiac necklaces are also another option for a coordinated look that is still personalized.
Another big one has been permanent jewelry - gifting permanent jewelry to the bridal party is both a rising trend and fun experience for the group. I see these experiences planned as part of the bachelorette party, or even to incorporate into the wedding reception as a treat to guests (in lieu of traditional “wedding favors”).
SC: How are mothers of the bride (and groom!) showing up in terms of jewelry? Are they keeping it timeless, or embracing bolder, more statement-making pieces?
EM: Definitely classic, though I have noticed more layering—showing off their beautiful collection of pieces throughout the years.
SC: Have there been any especially sweet or meaningful jewelry moments you've captured lately—like a passed-down heirloom, or a piece gifted the morning of the wedding?
EM: Yes, pretty frequently lately, I’ve seen the parents of the groom gift timeless pieces of jewelry to the bride—a diamond tennis bracelet, diamond studs, pearl bracelet. These all easily become heirloom pieces that could be passed down again and again. I also see beautiful symbols of honor and remembrance, like brides wearing their grandmother’s ring (and sometimes grooms their grandfather’s ring) in addition to the engagement ring/wedding bands on the wedding day.
SC: From behind the lens, how does jewelry show up in your wedding photography? There's always a big focus on the rings, but are there other pieces or moments—like first looks at heirloom pieces or special bracelets—that always feel photo-worthy?
EM: For me, jewelry plays a large role in the upfront styling portion of wedding photography. I begin every wedding day by styling editorial flat lays of the couple’s accessories. I pack a styling kit that is customized for each couple and plays into the colors, vision, and design of the day, resulting in beautiful images that tell a story of their preferences and choices. So much time goes into selecting the perfect accessories, and I feel it’s important to document them and give them their “moment” too!
The bride getting into her gown and accessories is one of my favorite portions of the wedding day. Capturing the mother of the bride gently fastening her passed-down necklace on to her daughter, the maid of honor slipping on a gorgeous gifted bracelet… all of it feels so special and iconic!
SC: If a bride asked you for advice on choosing jewelry for her wedding day, what’s the one piece you’d tell her not to overlook?
EM: Earrings are a must! Whether simple or statement, having a bit of shine near your face is essential. Consider the structure and design of your gown, as well as your planned hairstyle, and determine what would look best. And if you have trouble deciding, investing in a few different pairs and making the final decision on your wedding day with the dress on and hair and makeup done is a nice way to combat decision fatigue! The photographer will be able to tell you what looks best on camera.
SC: What’s a jewelry trend you’re loving right now for weddings—whether it’s for the bride, bridal party, or even guests?
EM:
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For the standout bride
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Layered pearl necklaces - adding a little more drama to old world charm, luxurious and bold
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Sheer opera gloves with bracelets and rings layered on top
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Larger statement floral motif earrings paired with a slicked back hairstyle
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For the classic bride
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A modernized take on pearl jewelry - interesting natural shapes over perfect strands
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Repurposed heirloom pieces - ie. the diamond from grandma’s ring reconfigured into a necklace
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Personalized gold and silver jewelry with meaningful etchings in hidden places (this goes for the groom’s jewelry pieces too!)
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For guests / bridal party
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Permanent jewelry
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Couples have been incorporating permanent jewelry services into the wedding reception as a treat to guests (in lieu of traditional “wedding favors”)
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Brides have been gifting permanent jewelry to their bridal party
Get to know a little more about Erin at www.graceandardor.com/ and follow her always stylish adventures on Instagram @graceandardor
