Maximising time on your wedding day
Captured by Susannah Blatchford
Any couple will most likely tell you that their wedding day went by at the speed of light, am I right?
For me, and thankfully for many of the couples whose paths cross mine, going through the motions is definitely not something we stick to on their wedding day, but what people do struggle with is putting together a solid timeline of the day that is effective and allows the couple to truly maximise their time with their loved ones.
Short and sweet this week, because it’s cup week and we all want an easy read! I thought I’d throw some ideas at you to think about including in your timelines, so whether you only have your photog for a few hours and want to capture the most important moments, or you just want to get down and dirrty (maybe, maybe not) with your closest circle, I hope there is something in the mix that appeals to you!
Of course, if you’re wanting a traditional wedding timeline to act as a guide, I’ve written one here and it’s a great base if I do say so myself!
Saying your vows in private is one of the most special things I have come across so far this season and for good reason! Kiwi’s, in general, are rubbish at expressing emotion at the best of times, so take the pressure away and keep them between yourselves. It will save time during your ceremony if it’s something you want to keep on the shorter and sweeter side!
Consider opting for a first look, or even get your money worth out of your wedding dress by having a creative shoot with your beau or belle the following day - It’s such a great way to unwind and reflect on the events just been!
Try not to get caught up in where your photos will be taken. A. It’s your photographer’s job 99% of the time to scout out different locations and they are more than capable of choosing the best spots on the day according to timings, light and weather conditions. They will also opt for nearby locations which means far less stress and less room for the timeline to get crazy outta whack! If you want to travel for your photos, this is where a creative shoot (as mentioned above) could be the perfect answer!
If you can, always have hair and makeup come to you. You will never regret it!
Be organised, I literally cannot stress this enough. If you want a hand with putting together run sheets, and sending out information to vendors I offer consultations to do this, or I’ve also just launched a brand spanking new DIY wedding package to guide you along the way!
You don’t have to have one at all, but your first dance also doesn’t have to be at the end of the dinner reception and I love suggesting to my couples to do it as a part of their wedding party entrance - Especially if they have kiddies who love to get up and have a boogie! It’s such a cool way to include them before their bedtime.
You could also opt to cut the cake at the beginning of your reception too, or not at all!
When it comes to entrees, I love opting for a shared platter style dish with bread and dips and it is a great option to choose if you’re likely to have a lot to the agenda for the evening as people can talk and guests can eat without too much disturbance from cutlery clinking against dishes.
I’ve been harping on about it for well over two years now, but whatever you choose to do on your wedding day, I encourage you to create an occasion that truly reflects you as a couple. If that means sticking to tradition then so be it, but if you’re rule-breaking, risk-taking daredevils, throw all that is 'normal’ out the window and go crazy - And if that’s you please get in touch, I freaking LOVE having conversations surrounding your epic ideas!
Until next,
