Your Kent Wedding - Jan/Feb 2020 (Issue 88)

WEDDING FAIRS Sarah says: Attending wedding fairs is a great way to get inspiration for your big day. Committing to any wedding business, to ensure your big day goes perfectly, is a huge decision and one that involves trust and empathy with your supplier. There’s no second chance! Wedding shows are relaxed affairs that provide you with the opportunity to discuss your special day face to face with the professionals before committing. They’re usually held from September to November, and from January to March to cater for peak planning periods. Sarah Ellis, County Wedding Events, countyweddingevents.com ❏ WHEN? SEPT-NOV, JAN-MAR daniellamarinosphotography.com THE PHOTOGRAPHER Penny says: When looking for your dream photographer, make sure you do your research. Look at style first and go with the one that speaks most to you, whether that be documentary, lots of posed shots, quirky or even vintage. Once you’ve compiled a short list of photographers ask to be shown examples of full weddings, so that you can see everything that was delivered to the couples. It’s important to satisfy yourself that your photographer can deal with whatever situation or weather your wedding will bring. The next step would be to meet them, as personality is just as important as style and skill. They’ll be a big part of your day, it’s important you get on. Finally, don’t forget – many key dates get booked quickly, so if there’s a particular one you have your heart set on, book them as soon as possible. Penny Young, Penny Young Photography pennyyoungphotography.com ❏ pennyyoungphotography.com TOP TIP Do your research THE VIDEOGRAPHER Carla says: Do your research on videographers in the area. Everyone has a different creative style and you should see what works for you. Think about what you want to see when you’re looking back on your big day. When you’ve made your decision, keep your videographer informed of your plans. For example, if there are any big surprises in the pipeline, warn them in advance so they’re ready to capture it all on camera for you. Consider a videographer who’s worked with your photographer before. They’ll know each other’s way of working, and will collaborate well as a team without being intrusive. Choose someone you feel comfortable with. My aim is to ensure couples feel at ease with me, which allows me to capture all the best natural shots. Carla Minhoto, ACM Films, acmfilms.co.uk ❏ TOP TIP Information is key THE ENTERTAINMENT Sarah says: A lot of great acts get booked up a long way in advance so, you want to organise and book your music as soon as you’ve confirmed your venue. Try to see as much musical entertainment as you can live at wedding fairs. Alternatively, find out if they have a website or Instagram account with videos, or see if they can share some footage from previous weddings. Your evening entertainment is a big deal, but don’t forget about your ceremony. Exchanging vows is an intimate and special moment, so having a live rendition of your song will make it even more magical. Sarah Broadhead, Halcyon Entertainment halcyon-entertainment.com ❏ TOP TIP See it live 76