Your Cheshire and Merseyside Wedding - July/August 2020 (Issue 52)

Our experts’ how-to guides for stress-free wedding planning HOT TOPIC CHOOSING YOUR STORYTELLER Choose a photographic style you like – every photographer has their own, so go with your instinct. I try to tell a story in pictures, but also like capturing those killer couple shots. I love it when couples are willing to give me creative freedom. So, do your research, check out their portfolio, google reviews and social media. It’s also a good idea to ask to see a full wedding album. It’s crucial to meet your photographer as soon as possible, either in person or via a Skype or Zoom call, to make sure you click (pardon the pun). After all, they’re the one supplier who’ll be with you most of the day. I recommend booking an engagement or pre-wedding shoot, as this can help you get to know each other, so you’ll feel much more comfortable and at ease on the day itself. Your photos are one of the most important things to invest in, they should be a timeless account of the most important day of your life. So, set a budget with this in mind. Stacey Oliver, www.staceyoliverphotography.co.uk Stacey is an award-winning photographer covering North Wales and the North West who describes herself as a “passionate perfectionist.” CREATING YOUR FLORAL FANTASY ❤ The first thing to do is set your budget. It’s important for your florist to know the parameters they’re working with. ❤ Do your homework. Be sure your chosen floral designer is right for your personal style. ❤ Think about your theme and colour palette, keeping the style of your venue in mind. Be sure to discuss every last detail with your floral designer, as this will help us to form a picture of the overall look. ❤ A good florist will always give you honest and professional advice and guidance. It’s a much more straight-forward process to hire one who’ll help you to design and execute the styling as a whole, rather than enlisting several different companies to organise various elements. ❤ Consider the season. Your favourite flowers may not be in bloom, so be sure to ask your professional about availability. ❤ Begin with the bouquet. It’s always a good idea to have a picture of your dress, as well as the bridesmaids’, with you so that your florist can advise on size, shape and colours of the bouquets. ❤ Above all, make sure you select flowers that you’re comfortable with. Your floral displays play a massive part in your day and will feature in most of your photographs, so it’s a key element to get right. Kelly Chapman, www.klfloralartistry.co.uk Kelly has worked in the florist industry for more than 25 years and is the owner of Kelly Louise Floral Design. www.stac eyoliverphotography.co.uk www.lesle ymeredith.co.uk 48