HOT TOPIC: wedding worries

Our experts solve your problems

There are so many photographers out there – how do we choose the one that’s right for us?

Choosing your photographer is one of the most personal decisions you will make. Your photographer will be by your side more than anyone else on the day; they will be with you through the last-minute nerves, at the altar and on the dancefloor.

Whilst price tends to influence most couples’ decisions, if you choose the right person who puts the time and effort into getting to know you, your family and what’s important to you, it will take away stress, allowing you to relax and enjoy your day.

As a wedding photographer, I spend time with my couples before the day so we can get to know each other and they can tell me all about their world. I also pride myself on being a second pair of hands on the day to help, i.e., if you need someone to look after your lippy, pin on a buttonhole or keep a time check to make sure everything is running smoothly.

Georgina Ford www.georginamaiphotography.co.uk

Say It With Flowers

We’re thinking of having our wedding flowers preserved. How does the process work?

Sending your precious flowers to be preserved can be a daunting thought, but it isn’t as scary as you may think. Once you have chosen the company and style that best suits you and booked your spot, you will need to send or deliver your flowers to them to be preserved. Flowers need to be dried to be preserved regardless of the style you choose. The drying process is slow and will take time. When your flowers have been dried, and you have chosen your preservation options, your artist will start creating your keepsake. You may also be able to include items of significance to you, like a charm, sixpence or ribbon from your bouquet. The time this takes varies from artist to artist. Allow up to nine months for you to receive your completed piece. You will then be able to keep your flowers for a lifetime and enjoy all the happy memories they hold.

Pets At Weddings

How can we incorporate our three dogs into our ceremony?

Hire a professional wedding dog chaperone specialist to assist and coordinate your furry friends’ roles in the ceremony. The chaperones will liaise with the registrars and venue coordinators accordingly to ensure a stress-free service.

The most popular role for your dog is a ring bearer. They will run down the aisle with your wedding rings attached in a secure holder. Alternatively, flowergirl or dog-of-honour is a cute role for multiple dogs. They could walk down the aisle one by one with your bridesmaids or maid-of-honour, then be passed to the chaperones. Another option would be for your pooches to sit with the rest of your guests, accompanied by a chaperone while the ceremony takes place.

Emma and Adrian Cartlich https://precious-pets.wedding

Ronni Jones www.suspendedpetals.co.uk

Love Is In The Air

Lots of photographers offer an engagement shoot, but we’re camera shy and don’t know if it’s for us. What are the benefits?

Engagement shoots are wonderful for both the couple and photographer. Most of my clients hate having their photo taken, and I appreciate how uncomfortable it can be. An engagement shoot allows you to see what angles, poses and styles of photography you like and gives your photographer a chance to see how the two of you stand and interact with one another.

If you can, have your engagement shoot at your wedding venue, as this is a good way to find the spots you want photographed on your special day.

When it comes to being camera shy, try not to worry too much and trust your photographer to help you feel at ease. I personally find meeting up with my clients a few times beforehand helps them feel comfortable.

Meg Quick www.megquickphotography.uk

Seasonal Romance

We’re getting married next July and want pictures to reflect the season. What do you suggest?

July is a beautiful time of year to tie the knot, with plenty of sunshine, lush greenery, and colourful flowers to enhance your photos. When planning your wedding, consider incorporating elements such as wildflowers, green foliage, edible flower-garnished cocktails, ice creams and outdoor games. Soft, pastel colours create a romantic and airy feel while staying true to the summer theme. White, in combination with green and gold, also looks very chic!

You could take advantage of the bright and sunny weather and plan an outdoor ceremony. Your photos will be filled with a summer glow, blue skies, and nature. A skilled photographer will know how to work with natural light and other seasonal elements to create beautiful images that capture the joy and beauty of your summer wedding.

Karolina and Mario www.bluebellphotostudio.co.uk

Fly Away With Me

My wife-to-be and I are looking for the perfect honeymoon destination. How can we plan the perfect trip?

Start over dinner and have a conversation about destinations. What best suits you as a couple? Maybe its relaxing at a luxury resort or an active trip with lots of sightseeing and discovery. Write down your top five must-see destinations. If you are undecided, it’s always a good idea to read reviews; trip advisor can be a good place to start.

The next step is choosing an independent travel agent that you can visit. Share with the agent your top five ideas, and they will be able to talk you through various options and inspire you. The details will include looking at what time of year you want to travel, are you planning to travel straight after your wedding, or is it better to wait for the perfect weather?

This is the most memorable holiday you can take, so push the boat out and do something extra, upgrade your room or fly in style. Booking early will give you the best prices and availability, and remember to ask about special honeymoon rates and offers.

Jennifer Lynch www.arrangemyescape.com