Our experts solve your problems HOT TOPIC: WEDDING WORRIES SING FOR LOVE We want to incorporate our love of musicals into our ceremony. Do you have any ideas of how we could do this? A celebrant-led ceremony is the perfect way to incorporate your theme into your day. You could hire a singer to serenade the bride as she walks down the aisle or find a local barbershop quartet to sing during the signing of the certificate. Alternatively, a harpist could play a medley as you both exit or it may be worth asking your celebrant to perform as a few of us are trained professional singers. I have been known to sing One hand, One Heart from West Side Story during a hand-fasting ceremony, and I’m planning to sing a bride down the aisle to I’m Kissing You with a string quartet accompaniment. Do any of your guests have musical talents? If so, it’s an ideal way for them to be a part of the day and create something memorable. You can decorate your venue with musicial-inspired décor or have the bridesmaids and groomsmen dress in a particular style such as 1940s glamour. There are so many options, so if you’re stuck for ideas, ask your celebrant for some suggestions. Janet Shell www.janetshell.co.uk PICTURE PERFECT I want to book a photographer and was wondering how I can keep the price down without compromising on quality? This is a great question and a tricky one to answer. Good quality in any industry, generally comes with a price tag that reflects the level of experience, skill and equipment used. This will vary further depending on what’s included in the service, as someone including physical products such as albums and prints will usually have a higher price than someone offering a digital service. To achieve quality photography and remain within a reasonable budget, look for a photographer whose work and style you like. Once you’ve narrowed this down, contact the company to see if they offer a shorter elopement service or a minimum number of hours. These services became popular during the pandemic and have remained in favour with couples preferring a more intimate or scaled-down wedding. If your big day is during the week or out wedding season, you may find photographers are more open to discussing a discount. Denise Winter www.denisewinterphotography.co.uk www.denisewinterphotography.co.uk Christopher Goldsack EXPERT ADVICE 55
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