An Essex Wedding - Jul/Aug 2019 (Issue 87)

THE IDEAL SETTING What should I consider before I book my venue? Your venue will set the scene for your whole wedding, so it’s important to make sure it ticks all your boxes. Here’s a checklist of things to consider: ❤ What overall appearance do you want? Do you sway more towards a rustic barn, glamorous manor house or chilled-out marquee? ❤ What are the logistics of the day? Do you want a church or civil ceremony? Does the venue offer exclusive-use or will you be expected to share your day with other guests or wedding parties? ❤ Who are you inviting? Does your chosen setting have the capacity for all your loved ones? ❤ What’s the availability? Do you have a specific date in mind such as a birthday or anniversary? Many places get booked up far in advance so check this before setting your heart on it. ❤ What do you want to eat? Can the venue offer the catering options you’d like? ❤ Where will you and your guests sleep? Can your chosen place accommodate everyone overnight and offer a breakfast in the morning? ❤ Are there lots of photo-ready spots? Will the grounds provide a romantic backdrop to capture the special moments of your day? Fiona Thom Crondon Park | crondonpark.com PICTURE PERFECT We don’t want to spend hours posing for photographs. How do we make sure that all of our loved ones are captured? No one wants to waste precious time on their big day posing for endless photos, and most photographers would much rather be getting those fantastically natural moments of love and laughter. Timing is key here. I tend to get quite involved in the running order and make sure we can fit all the great photo opportunities in. Up to two-and-a-half hours between your ceremony and reception is ideal so you can get a shot of everyone together as well as a number of pre-planned formal shots. Please note, these don’t really have to be formal – why not have fun with them and show your personalities? I’d also recommend planning in time to chat with your friends and family so I can get those candid moments. A team of two shooters really helps to make the most of this time. I love to capture unposed shots of the newlyweds. Ask your photographer to plan these around pretty spots at your venue and work out times to get the best light. Finally, make sure you choose a professional who values the same things as you. For me, it’s the laughs, looks and quiet moments that should be filling your album. Anna Marie Cooper    Photography by Anna Marie photographybyannamarie.com chriswoodmanphotography.co.uk photographybyannamarie.com EXPERT ADVICE 109