GETTING TO KNOW YOU Matthew Fitzpatrick at Fitzpatrick Photography (https://fitzpatrickphotography.co.uk) says: “If we’re honest, most of us hate having our photos taken unless it’s selfies with friends, of course! But when it comes to paying someone professionally, most of us shudder at the idea and struggle to feel at our natural best. So, with more couples looking for less traditional photography, instead wanting their wedding story to be documented, how do you learn to be relaxed in front of the camera? While the idea of an engagement shoot isn’t new, how they are structured is changing, causing even the most camera-shy to look again. When working with our couples, we typically set aside a three-hour time slot for a session, giving them plenty of time to relax without any time pressure. It enables us to walk, talk and take in different backdrops. It allows couples to find out what works for them and discover how they feel most comfortable being photographed. In the end, even the most camera-shy are surprised by how much fun they had. It’s only natural to feel anxious in the run up to the wedding, but getting to know your suppliers, especially those you’ll spend a lot of time with, can genuinely help. Understanding how they’re going to work removes the fear of the unknown meaning you can relax and enjoy the day more. TAILORED TO YOU Celebrant Gill Collins (www.gillcollinsceremonies.co.uk) says: I find that couples really want the emphasis of their ceremony to be totally specific to them, as well as a day that everyone will remember as theirs, not one that’s the same as any other wedding guests may have attended. Indeed, there seems to be an increased interest in celebrant-led ceremonies outdoors, at locations that have special meaning for them as a couple. For example, I’ve recently taken bookings to conduct ceremonies in couples’ own homes. There’s also been a big interest in having animals involved, the family dog being a big hit as bridesmaid or ring bearer! A major benefit of having celebrant-led “I dos” is that in addition to writing a bespoke ceremony, we can accommodate couples’ individual requirements and requests, resulting in a unique, special and memorable experience. https://fitzpatrickphotography.co.uk © Dougie Cunningham at Leading Lines Photography ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCES Peter Henney from Go Cruise and Travel (anneandpeter@gocruiseandtravel.co.uk) says: Since the pandemic couples have been re-thinking their honeymoon experience. Some may have more savings, while others are booking well in advance to be able to achieve their dream. Honeymoon planning now is different. Financing can be achieved by various flexible funding methods, such as the honeymoon fund we offer at Go Cruise and Travel, whereby you ask guests to contribute to this rather than having a standard guest list. In terms of the type of honeymoon couples are looking for, the current trend appears to be booking experiences whether they be on sea or land. These fashions are greatly influenced by healthy lifestyles and environmental awareness. Such trips include expedition cruises to the Arctic or Antarctic, experiencing the natural beauty and wildlife; or expedition ships that have facilities such as submersibles, helicopters and zodiacs for guests to maximise their time. Safaris, where honeymooners can see wildlife in their natural habitat as they fly over in a hot air balloon or travel by jeep before sleeping under the stars in a luxury lodge, are now truly affordable. What’s more, places that were once only dreamed about such as Japan, South America, Asia and the South Pacific are now more widely accessible and affordable, and are popular spots for enjoying cultural engagement. These holidays all come with expert guides with exceptional local knowledge. 68
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