Helpful Hints for a Better Wedding
Compiled by Jim Korchinski

1. Inform your minister, priest, celebrant that you have a  professional photographer attending the ceremony. Inform the person that professional photographs will be taken during the ceremony. Have the photographer introduce themselves to the minister, priest, or celebrant prior to the ceremony to establish consensus on what is allowed and what is not.
   
2. Prepare a list of locations…brides house, church, formal location, rainout location, hotel or hall. Include address and phone numbers….very important.

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3. Have a mobile phone for both sides of the wedding party, bride and groom. This  allows last minute requests and emergencies to be addressed effectively.
   
4. Brides / Bridesmaids and Mothers / Aunts should be aware to book a hair salon  that has two or more hair stylists to handle the entire bridal party quickly and effectively.  Have the salon confirm your appointment the day before to insure they are prepared for your group.
   
5. Consider having your makeup done at the salon or at home professionally. This is a small item but a very important one, allowing your photographs to have balance and depth.
   
6. Weddings at 1PM or 2PM allow more time for photographs and the day is less rushed. 3PM and 4PM weddings place more stress on the bridal party and photographer.
   
7. Make a list of family pictures…brothers, sisters, cousins, inlaws so you do not miss anyone important…on your wedding day things can get missed due to excitement and emotion.
   
8. Have the photographer take pictures of grandparents, parents, and relatives first, this allows family to leave the formal portrait session and join visiting family and friends at the house or hotel.
   
9. Pack an emergency bag with makeup, mirror. tissues, allergy tablets, and a second set of glasses or contact lenses.
   
10. Pack a lunch for the bridal party with beverages such as juice, pop, water, beer and coolers. Bring lawn chairs, place them in the rental cars or limousine trunk. This will allow the bridal party and family to have a place to sit… some photo sessions can last up to 2 hours.
    
11. Be prepared for relatives and friends wanting to congratulate you after the Ceremony….this time is precious and should be accounted for when planning your timetable for formals and dinner. A 30 minute delay can cause a number of items to happen…..a shortened photo shoot, a longer cocktail hour ($$$$), or a delay in the dinner program. Make time 15 – 20 minutes after church to relax and enjoy this special time, rather than being rushed away.
    
12. Insure that your marriage license makes it to the church or marriage ceremony location.
     
13. Have emergency phone numbers of your dressmaker, tuxedo rental supplier, and florist.
    
14. Have a water spray bottle for your flowers, this will keep them fresh and lively throughout the day and into the evening.
    
15. When selecting a caterer, obtain some references or sample their food at a wedding prior to making a commitment. This will allow you and your family to observe how the caterer handles themselves and see feedback from the guests.
    
16. If you are selecting a DJ or band for your wedding take the time to visit his/their performance at another wedding or function before you make your choice. Don't be afraid to select some of your favourite CD's to be played by a DJ on the night and be aware of the volume of the music on the night and how the oldies are fairing. Remember your in charge.
    
17. Have an umbrella ready all day in case of unexpected rain. This simple precaution will protect the brides hair and makeup and shade older relatives throughout the day.