HOT TOPIC Local experts offer stellar advice on wedding dilemmas GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING We’re getting married soon, and our guests are asking for some gift ideas; what would you suggest? Experiences are great gifts! A gift certificate for a hot air balloon ride, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway is a memorable gift that the couple can enjoy together. Personalised gifts always go down a treat. A custom-made game with the couple’s last name or initials, a framed print of their engagement photo or a set of engraved wine glasses are all thoughtful gifts they can cherish for years to come. Charitable donations are becoming very popular. If the couple is registered with a charity, consider donating in their honour. This is a great way to give back to a cause they care about. Outdoor entertaining essentials are great choices. A fire pit for roasting marshmallows under the stars, a hammock for relaxing in the backyard or a set of games for summer barbecues are all perfect gifts for couples who love spending time outdoors. There are subscription boxes for almost everything, from craft beer to beauty products to gourmet food. Choose a subscription box you think the couple would enjoy, and they’ll get a new surprise each month. If you’re crafty, consider making a handmade gift for the couple, such as a knitted blanket, a painted picture, or a piece of jewellery. Prashant Patel | Personalised Bee | www.personalisedbee.com/ collections/wedding-engagement-prints CAPTURING MEMORIES We’re considering booking a videographer but are unsure what to look for. Do you have any tips? Your wedding day is, one can argue, the biggest day of your life. You want your wedding videographer to complement your day, including meeting your style preferences. Conduct some research into the type of video style you like. Do you want a short video with all the best bits of your day or an entire film lasting over an hour with a trailer? Secondly, take notes on the style of videos you like. Many videographers have different filming and editing techniques, which is very important when choosing a videographer. Meeting your videographer before the wedding day, even if it’s just over a video call, can significantly ease any pre-wedding jitters. Getting to know them and their work style can make them feel more like friends, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident on your big day. Regarding where to find a videographer, asking for recommendations through friends and family is one way of knowing that the person you book has been trusted by someone you also trust. You can also join Facebook groups for local wedding suppliers. My final tip is to find someone who makes you feel relaxed. You don’t want somebody who is stressed, as you’ll be doing enough of that already. They’re the expert and should make you feel comfortable and confident that everything is going smoothly. Zoe Fawkner | Zoe Alannah Videography www.instagram.com/zoe_alannah_ Photo by Sofia Hernandez on Unsplash www.instagram.com/zoe_alannah_ EXPERT ADVICE 83
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