Weddings, which while being the most beautiful and important day of your life, also come with it's fair share of stress. How this stress is handled makes so much difference in. . .well just about everything.
As thephotographer, I get to be on the inside of all that goes on on your wedding day. It's kind like reading posts of your friends on Facebook - you find out alot! I have thought about this and have come up with a top ten list (doesn't everyone do a top ten list?)
Top Ten Things to Consider When Planning Your Wedding:
- Don't spend more than you can afford. I know everyone wants their fairy tale wedding, but going into lifelong debt to do so is hardly worth it in the end. There are so many creative ways to put together a beautiful and memorable wedding. The cost of your wedding in no way equates with the success of your marriage.
- Prioritize. Think about what is really important and splurge on that. Don't scrimp on your photography. (Well said by a photographer) I think it is kind of like buying a house. You get more bang for your buck, if you buy the smallest house in the nicest neighborhood. Choose a quality well experienced photographer, whose style matches yours, but you don't have to get their most expensive packages. You can always add the book later. But getting those photos documented in the best way possible is paramount.
- Stuff happens. Let it go and move on. Don't dwell on the stuff that down the road isn't really going to matter
- Organize. Keep folders and make lists. I say very little about this, because it is where I usually fail:) - but I know it is important, and promise to figure it out one day.
- Make your decisions carefully, and then move on. Indecision will make your crazy. When you find "the dress", stop looking at dresses....same for everything else
- Have a professional do your makeup. There is a difference between a natural look and no makeup. You will thank me when you see your photographs.
- Make sure your hair-do matches your face...and personality. If updo's are the thing, but it doesn't flatter you face, DON'T do an updo. Listen to the suggestions of your hairdresser, hire someone your trust, and do a trial run. Once again, you will thank me later.
- Consider seeing each other before the ceremony for your romantic shots. I know this is very controversial, but if you want the romantic pictures that you probably hired your photographer for, that is your best shot at getting them. Here is how it can work: Pick a spot to meet. Do it way before any of the guest arrive. Have him be there, and you walk in...just like for the ceremony, but now it is a private moment between you two. I promise that when you walk down the aisle, you both will still have that oh my gosh feeling and emotions. Here is my other reason for doing this before the ceremony. You are spending a lot of time and money on planning your wedding, and I promise you that you plan for a year or so, and it all goes by in a heartbeat. Why do you want to miss one minute of it? If you are taking your pictures during the cocktail hour, you are missing out on that part of your wedding. That is also the part when you are freshly married and and the excitement is at its' peak. Just something to consider
- Interview and feel comfortable and trust all your vendors. You are going to be spending a lot of time with your photographer. Make sure your personalities mesh, and you are on the same page.
- Now this is the most important tip. Keep Your sense of humor. Laughing is the best medicine.
Until next time...
Shelley
