Here are some things that we’ve learned during wedding planning. VENUE ❤ Make sure a registrar or celebrant is available on your wedding day before confirming with the venue. ❤ Find out what is and what isn’t included in the booking price. ❤ Check whether your venue has any sound limiters or a curfew in place. ❤ Ensure the venue has liability insurance in case the worst was to happen. ❤ How will the venue handle poor weather or last-minute changes? ❤ Before booking, check the venue’s COVID-19 policies. PHOTOGRAPHER ❤ If like me, you’re nervous or unsure in front of the camera book a prewedding shoot – it really does make a difference. ❤ Before booking, decide on what style of photography you like and set a budget. ❤ Lots of photographers don’t have prices stated on their website; find five you like and email them all asking for quotes so that you can compare. ❤ Find out how many images you’ll be receiving and how long your photographer will spend with you on the day. ❤ Most suppliers will require a meal, so factor that into your catering budget and check if they have any dietary requirements. ❤ You’ll be spending a large portion of the day with your photographer, so it’s important you get on well, and they make you feel relaxed. FLOWERS ❤ Some flowers are seasonal and may not be available at the time of year you’re getting married, so be prepared to discuss this with your florist. ❤ Your supplier will have a wealth of knowledge and will be able to advise you on what blooms will suit your day. ❤ Check your quotes include VAT. ❤ Think carefully about if you’d like real or dried flowers. If you’re unsure it may be worth talking to a few different companies to discuss the pros and cons. ❤ Your florist should suggest ways you can save money, for example, re-using blooms from your ceremony for the reception. ❤ There are so many ways that you can preserve your flowers after the wedding, so it’s worth looking at your options. WEDDING DRESS ❤ Try on a variety of styles to find what best suits your shape. ❤ Trust your bridal consultant and listen to their recommendations, after all, they’re the experts. ❤ Choose a dress that you feel comfortable in and makes you feel like the best version of yourself. ❤ Wear white or skin-coloured underwear to your appointment. ❤ Start shopping nine to 12 months before the wedding to ensure you have plenty of time to get the gown in-store and alterations to be done. ❤ The shopping process can be daunting, so don’t feel pressured to purchase a dress for the sake of it, when you find the right gown, you’ll know it. BRIDE’S DIARY 77
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