An Essex Wedding - Page number 89 - July/August 2021 (Issue 99)

HOT TOPIC Our experts help you plan your dream day THE LITTLE DETAILS Q: Will we still get amazing photos at our intimate wedding? Since the pandemic hit, the world has had to evolve and adapt to major changes. One of the industries that was worst hit was the one I have committed eight years of my life to: the wedding industry. Having shot a handful of weddings during COVID-19, I had a taste of what it was like to shoot the most intimate of gatherings, with small guest lists from six to 30 people. I love smaller weddings; you get to spend quality time with the people that matter most to you. There’s no rushing around and you get much more time to enjoy your day. I find couples tend to be more comfortable around their closest friends and family, so your photos will look more natural and authentic throughout the day. You’ll also find your nearest and dearest will huddle closer, which makes key moments like throwing confetti, cutting the cake and the first dance even more emotional and visually pleasing. Smaller weddings are now my preference as a photographer. There’s no compromise with your requirements and you get to make the most of the day you’ve worked so hard to plan. Chris Woodman | Chris Woodman Photography www.chriswoodmanphotography.co.uk www.chriswoodmanphotography.co.uk LOVE WINS Q: After postponing our big day, we’ve found that there’s a huge backlog of weddings and we may have to wait even longer for a registrar. What are our options? We’re living through difficult times, with registry offices struggling with demand in some areas and personnel changes meaning that they are unable to accommodate as many bookings. This is when a celebrant is a great option. As people across the country prepare to celebrate with their nearest and dearest again, wedding suppliers are diversifying to meet the needs of their couples, while staying as true to your wedding vision as possible. With a celebrant, you can have a ceremony anytime, any day and almost anywhere. You can get friends and family involved and hold it in front of a small or large gathering of loved ones. Couples can state their vows for married life, exchange rings and even sign a certificate commemorating the day. The choice is yours and there are no limitations, you’ll just need to sign the legal paperwork when you can. If you’ve had to reschedule or your original date is fast-approaching, get in touch to see how we can make your dream day a reality. Shelley Bell | Shelley Bell Independent Celebrant www.shelleybell.co.uk https://laurajanephotography.co.uk ASK THE EXPERTS 89