it is a collection of many moments: the anticipation and planning, the get-together before the wedding, a speech of a close friend, a brunch the next morning and of course- the honeymoon afterwards. But this exciting journey into the next life chapter might be overwhelming sometimes. That’s why I’ve put together a guideline for you on what you can expect from a wedding day. Although we are not talking about theatre or a spectacle, it can be divided into several acts, which combined all together create a big story- YOUR STORY.
Act 1/ Getting ready
The big day has arrived, the excitement is in the air and the emotions are running crazy. It’s YOUR time to start the big day the way you want. However, these first intimate hours of the day are often spent separately from your partner. Photographs offer an opportunity to let your loved one (s) participate in this part afterwards. Hence my personal recommendation: book a wedding photographer for these moments. A little advice from my side: think about what you will wear when you are getting ready. Light, neutral colors look harmonious in the pictures. For women in particular, it should be something that is easy to take off without running the risk of ruining your hair and makeup.
Act2/ First look
This trend is taking over here in Europe. The moment the couple see each other for the first time that day. And that is unique and unforgettable every time. If you are planning to come to the ceremony together, I recommend scheduling some time for this moment.
P.S. Also there are many other ways for the first look: parents, bridesmaids, children.
Act 3/ Civil Ceremony
The civil ceremony is the legal part of a marriage. Often, it takes place on a different day and is usually celebrated in a smaller circle. Splitting the civil ceremony is generally a good idea so that the “big day” is not overloaded. However, you must consider that there will be additional costs, e.g. for hair & make-up, a different outfit, additional location, etc.
Act 4/ Free Ceremony / Church
Surely this part is one of the most exciting moments of the day. You’ve played the scene in your head several times and most of the time it will turn out differently as you have imagined. When I was walking down the isle with my father, I couldn’t help but cry with joy. So don’t have too high expectations of yourself, just enjoy the moment as it comes. At the ceremony, I always recommend enjoying the first kiss and also the handing over of the rings as if it was in slow motion so that a nice picture of you can be captured.
Act 5/ Congratulations
Congratulations are usually given right after the ceremony. One person begins and a queue has already formed around the bride and groom. Here I recommend that you get advice in advance on where you should receive the congratulations after the ceremony. This guarantees good light and thus beautiful pictures. If you do not want the congratulations to take place immediately after the wedding, e.g. because of a couples photo shoot, let your guests know so that you can keep your schedule.
Act 6/ Reception
After the congratulations, the guests usually can enjoy a drink. Group pictures are often taken during this time. Of course, these can also take place at a different moment of the day. Please let your photographer know in advance, so that you can get a list of the most common group configurations for the group pictures.
Act 7/ couple wedding photography
This is probably the only part that is all about you and enjoying yourself on your big day. You might know the feeling from your engagement session and you’re probably more relaxed. Decide yourself about the time for your couple shooting: before or after the ceremony. My personal recommendation: reserve some extra time for some additional pictures at sunset. You will not regret it.
Act 8/ Dinner
This part is often associated with surprises and many speeches. Your photographer will be on the spot so that these moments can also be captured. My personal recommendation: Discuss with your caterer beforehand how much time you have between courses and inform your wedding planner so that they can organise the schedule with those, who want to give a speech for you.
Act 9/ Wedding cake
The wedding cake is usually for dessert, before everyone hits the dance floor.
Act 10/ Party/ First dance
The ties will be untied, high heels will be swapped into sneakers and the bride often changes the dress. Many great and fun pictures will be done during this part of the day.
This is just a rough overview to help you to understand what to expect on a wedding day. For many couples, the wedding day passes by so fast, so it is important to plan it so that you can enjoy the day to the fullest. My clients get more wedding advise in the wedding magazine that they receive with every booking. There you will find so much more for your big day.
Let’s grab a coffee together. Yours, Val.
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