Advice From Recent Couples…Things They Wish They Would Have Done Differently.
I took a poll on my Instagram Story this week asking my followers who recently got married what they wish they would’ve done differently. These questionnaires and polls are always so informative and fun to do, I really want to start incorporating more ideas— FROM YOU — to write my blogs about. if you have questionnaire suggestions, topics you think aren’t being covered, or just some general advice please do let me know in my comments at the bottom of this entry!
Choose vendors who are recommended and trustworthy
Unfortunately, this is something I hear / see more and more over the years. There are a few things you can do to help lessen your chances but even then, sometimes things just happen. Here are my tips to help protect yourself:
Hire someone that comes highly recommended by either your planner or someone you know personally. If that isn't an option for you, or you haven’t hired your planner yet, then be sure that you’ve read their recent reviews and look at their work extensively.
Ask for a phone meeting prior to hiring them and speak with more than just one vendor in that category. Compare the information you are given. If something seems "too good to be true", it may be. Ask questions. Having them prepared a head of time will insure you get the answers you need.
Make sure that you are paying your vendors securely online and not via Zelle, Apple Pay or Venmo. While it is okay to "tip" your vendors that way after your wedding you should never pay them this way prior to the date of service.
Please do your homework and check to be sure they have a registered business with the state. If it's a Florida based vendor you should be able to find them on Sun-biz.
Lastly, make sure that you are getting a contract -- and READ IT. Everything you need to know, expectation wise, is in that document for you. If you have questions — the time to ask them is before you sign it.
Make time to go to Cocktail Hour
If this is something you plan to do at your wedding, please make sure that your planner and your photographer both know this. We can then work together to devise a timeline that allows time for that to happen. As a photographer I do my part to capture the necessary family portraits and get you to the cocktail if I know that a head of time. Communication is key here. It’s your day. Tell us what you both want.
Allow more time to relax between your HMUA finishing and your first look
I actually really like this advice. Build a day, and a timeline, that feels good to you. If you are someone like me that likes a quiet morning, build one into your timeline. If you are a go-go-go person then take that into account too. Your wedding day should be planned around the two of you and your personal preferences. Fancy a mimosa before first look + after your HMUA is done? No problem. Let’s make sure we have the time built in to allow for that quiet space and calm before the day.
Do your “Family Formals” list like your photographer asks your to
This is a big one. If you want me to take the stress off of you during family photo time, I need a list. I can then call out the names and position people accordingly. If you don't provide me a list we are relying on the two of you to remember each combination of family portraits that you want to have. I have a template I can send you to get you started if that's helpful.
I wish I had chosen a better photographer
This made me upset when I saw this answer! Please, Please, PLEASE hire someone you are OBSESSED with. Hire someone you turn post notifications on for. Hire someone you tell all your friends about. These are some of the most important moments of your lives and having photographs that reflect that in a style you love is worth it's weight in gold.
Hire an experienced caterer for your event type
This goes back to reading reviews, asking questions and asking for recommendations. If food at your wedding is one of your important hot ticket items then ask your venue who works there often and who they love the most. Reach out to them and schedule a tasting. If you LOVE the food at your tasting you should love your food the day of as well.
Personalized napkins, favors etc are not worth the spend.
I see this a lot in conversations with couples after their weddings. If monogramed signage, specialty drinks and custom napkins are important to you -- great. I, personally, love details. If that those details don’t matter to you but having a high end lounge area at your reception does, then splurge on that instead. Don't do stuff because someone tells you that you "have to" or social media shows you that you "need to". Find the parts of the wedding or the wedding reception that mean the most to you and go all out. You won't regret that.
I hope this blog was helpful! If you have any thoughts or things you would like to share you can always leave them below.
As always, feel free to check out the rest of my blogs and connect with me on my Instagram! If you like what you see on my portfolio page and you’re looking to book a wedding photographer or even an elopement photographer, check me out and let’s get in touch!!
