Congratulations, you’re engaged to be married, you’ve set the date but where do you start with the arrangements? Here are a few simple steps to get your planning moving in the right direction:
Book your wedding reception venue – The booking should be confirmed in writing.
Book or secure your ceremony location – Should this be a local park, garden or beach; the local council’s permission will need to be obtained.
Book your celebrant or minister – To ensure all your guest can hear those magical words, ensure they have and will bring their own P.A. System, it’s essential.
Book your photographer.
Here are some helpful guidelines and remember it’s your day, so don’t do all of the running around, chasing up people for photos.
Prior to the wedding day – A week before the wedding day or when the guest list is finalized, make a list of family, friends and relatives’ photos that you would like shot on the day. Give each group a title, e.g. “Gregs Family” or “Work Mates”. Should there be any sensitive relationship issues and often there are, a very brief note would be appreciated by the photographer so they don’t upset anyone that will cause a scene.
Appoint a liaison person for each group – Their sole responsibility is rounding up their designated charges at your request. That way you stay put, the portrait session flows smoothly, is over quicker and you and your new husband are far less stressed out. It may only save 10 or 20 minutes but most importantly, you haven’t been run ragged chasing people for photos. Remember, it’s YOUR day so designate!
Family shoot- It’s a usual request from the bride and groom to want portraits with relatives and friends. Guests have usually been gathered from near and far, all decked out in their best gear, so lets shoot a few photos.
The bridal party shoot- Have you got a creative idea or particular style of photographs that you would like for the bridal party? If so, let me know as I’m always open to creative ideas and we will see what can be done.
Remember that 10 or 20 minutes saved? This is the time to make use of it for the bridal party shoot and help make your timetable run smoothly.
As a professional Gold Coast wedding photographer I find that if the future bride and groom follow guidelines like the above, things will go much smoother for everyone on their wedding day.
By J.E Davis – A Gold Coast Wedding Photographer
