10 Tips for Brides & Grooms
I know that right now it’s the dead of winter but trust me wedding season will be here before you know it. To help you out and make all of our lives easier I’ve put together a list of tips for this year’s crop of Brides and Grooms.
1. Your photographer needs to eat. This is not a big deal if you’re having a buffet style meal, but if you’re having a plated service you need to make sure that you count the photographer (and any other professionals you’ve hired for the big day) when you’re giving your caterer numbers. The photographer should eat at the same time as the head table so that they’re not trying to eat and take pictures of the speeches etc. at the same time.
2. Don’t hide your photographer in the corner. If you have assigned seating for the meal do not jam the photographer in the corner where they will have to squeeze past 30 or 40 guests to get the shot. Chances are by they time the wade through all the elbows and chairs they’ll miss their chance entirely.
3. Have the MC ask your guests to give you and the photographer a bit of time for photos before they all come swarming up for things like the first dance and cake cutting. I’m sure your Aunt June is a lovely person, but do you really want her in all of your first dance pictures?
4. Consider asking your guests to not use flash photography during the ceremony. The pictures your photographer takes will turn out 100 times better without weird light from all of the cameras your guests are toting.
5. Leave plenty of time between the ceremony and the reception for photos. Not only will you get better results, but you’ll enjoy the experience so much more if it’s not rushed. Plus, if you have extra time left over you can relax and recharge before the reception.
6. Better yet… Consider taking your photos before the ceremony when everyone is looking fresh and lovely. I think the idea of it being bad luck for the Groom to see the Bride before the wedding is a little out dated in today’s society. Over 70% of couples are living together before they get married now.
7. If you decide to take your photos before the wedding plan a special moment for you and your future Mr. / Mrs. to have that “first look”. Take a few minutes to get ready to face your big day together.
8. Bring someone along to mind the flower girl/ring bearer during photos. This is especially true if their parents are part of the wedding party. They might be the sweetest, most well-mannered kids in the whole world but all of the action will eventually get to them. Bring snacks and drinks for the kiddos too. It’s a long, long day for any adult. Imagine how hard it must be for a three-year old.
9. Speak your mind. If you have something specific in mind tell your photographer. Do not assume that they’ll think of it too.
10. Have fun!
Since I’m a photographer these are mainly photography related but there are tons and tons of other resources out there when it comes to planning your big day.
Here are a few of my favourites:
The Rock N Roll Bride – lots of wedding awesomeness with a bit of an edge all in one place
Pinterest - If you can’t find inspiration on Pinterest you should hire a professional… you need help
Lloydminster Weddings – A local directory that makes your planning super easy, all of your vendors, suppliers, and services in one spot
