Videographers? Will Photographers do?
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A wedding video tape or DVD should never be considered a substitute for still photographs. However, by virtue of its sound and movement, a video can preserve a distinct and important part of your wedding. Imagine being able to see and hear your vows being said, reliving again the emotions of the moment.
A video/DVD of your wedding and the following festivities will capture the “real life” that otherwise goes unobserved and is a poignant, often humorous, accompaniment to the traditional wedding photographs.
Avoid the temptation to have a friend or relative make your wedding DVD. As with all other aspects of the occasion the services of a professional are essential; not only will they have superior cameras but their editing facilities will produce a finished product of the highest quality.
Do not leave selection of your videographer to the last minute. Start looking at least six to 12 months ahead and make your booking as soon as you can. Professional videographers will be happy to show you demonstration tapes which will illustrate the enhancements to the overall effect which will come from the latest post production techniques.
In a pre-production planning session, talk to the videographer about the events you would like taped. Remember to check if the Church allows filming during the ceremony, as some do not. You may want to design your own package to include footage of the rehearsal, the hen party, you and your groom in final preparation for the ceremony, interviews with your parents, special guests, activities and groups of friends at the reception … all captured on film in sight, sound and movement for years to come.
Be clear about the pricing structure. Fees will generally depend on the number and quality of cameras, editing time and special production needs. Most videographers offer a competitive package to produce a finished video of your wedding day.
Many parents will have cine films of their weddings but often no projection facilities. Why not take the opportunity at the same time to ask your chosen videographer about the possibility of the transfer to video of these old films.
What are your thoughts on Videographers? Are they needed? Will having a Photographer be enough?
Traditions - Do you believe in it?
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Traditions have a way of becoming rules of etiquette and few human rites are more imbued with tradition than weddings. The traditional white bridal gown, for example, owes its origins to the Greeks who believed white embodied purity, innocence and joyfulness.
This also implied that the bride was a virgin. In more recent times, however, the wedding gown itself has come to characterise the wedding ceremony and the celebrations and, today, ivory and pastel shades are considered quite acceptable. The wedding veil, however, has always symbolised modesty, privacy, youth and maidenhood.
Those attributes have largely prevailed and authorities on bridal etiquette still advise “encore” brides to forego the veil and wear a hat instead.
Are you a traditionalist? Or do you think that some traditions are best forgotten? Let us know your views?
Traditional Anniversary Gifts - Have you ever received one?
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If you think you will escape traditions once the wedding is over - peruse this, for tradition may follow you through many years of wedded bliss!
1st paper
2nd cotton
3rd leather
4th linen
5th wood
6th iron
7th wool
8th bronze
9th pottery
10th tin
11th steel
12th silk
13th lace
14th ivory
15th crystal
20th china
25th silver
30th pearls
35th coral, jade
40th rubies
45th sapphires
50th gold
55th emeralds
60th diamonds
May your marriage see many happy anniversaries!
Have you ever received one of these traditional gifts on your wedding anniversary?
Toastmaster - Do you really need them?
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In the planning of every Bride’s Wedding Day it is certain that she will want to take every step possible to ensure its smooth running. Regrettably, however, it is equally certain that at some time or other she will have been to a wedding that lacked that important sparkle’.
On reflection, the most likely reason for this was that no one was on hand to co-ordinate the reception etiquette procedure and generally to take care of all those little unforeseen emergencies that, however carefully things have been planned, can always arise. You may not want to take the chance that this will be the case on your special day.
A professional Master of Ceremonies always adds that touch of dignity and efficiency to any occasion and in a friendly and courteous manner ensures that the families most concerned in the success of the day are able to enjoy it to the full, relaxing in the knowledge that its organisation is in safe and expert hands.
Such customary matters as the receiving line, the cutting of the cake and, of course, the speeches all have to be managed. The advice of your toastmaster, which is readily available to you from the moment he/she is booked, can often prove to be quite invaluable.
It may well be that, up to now, you have had no thoughts of engaging the services of such a person for your Wedding Reception. Possibly you feel that your guests would consider a formally dressed, red-coated Master of Ceremonies to be over-the-top’ . However, the modern day toastmaster has the ability to adapt to the particular requirements of each individual function that he attends and his expertise and experience enables him to be either the formal professional or the informal link-man, as the circumstances of the day require.
Is it really necessary to have a Toastmaster? Do they add that much more value? What are you thoughts?
Rings - show yours off here?
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Almost all brides wear a wedding ring. Double ring ceremonies are also very popular. The choice of styles for wedding rings is virtually limitless. You may want to try several jewellers before making your final decision, so start looking at least 12 to 16 weeks before your wedding date.
If the bride is wearing an engagement ring, the selection of wedding rings must centre around that ring. She may know exactly what she wants. There may be a ready match available, or it may be necessary to try on dozens of rings to find the one that is most suitable. In some instances, the bride’s wedding ring may have to be custom-made. This is where a reliable jeweller is essential. Doubtless he will have many suggestions - let his years of experience and trained eye guide you in your choice.
Where the groom is also going to wear a wedding ring, many couples think in terms of a matched set. This may again entail a lengthy search, to find the set which pleases both of you. So be careful not to fix on the word “matched”. If the bride’s wedding ring is to complement her engagement ring, there may not be a manly match for the groom. He will have to find his own style, which pleases him and suits his hand.
At present, rings in yellow gold are the most popular, but they are also available in white gold, two-tone yellow and white; in 9ct., 18ct., 22ct., or platinum. Traditional or modern, with diamonds or coloured stones, engraved or bright polished.
Thick or thin, wide or narrow - the choice is yours. One last pointer, for comfort and safe-keeping make sure you get the correct fit. Day in, day out, year after loving year, no other piece of apparel can compete with the hours you wear your wedding ring.
Let us all have a look at your wedding or engagement ring? Nows the chance to show it off! Post it here now
Reception Decorations - is it necessary or will alcohol do?!
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There are many banqueting suites and halls suitable in size and location for a Wedding Reception where the decor does not really lend itself to the occasion. It has been, and still is, possible to improve the appearance of a room or marquee by decorating it with displays of plants and flowers and by incorporating flower arrangements (fresh, silk or dried) on the tables.
More recently the use of helium filled floating balloons has greatly increased the scope of Function Room Decoration. There are now a number of companies offering a complete function suite decoration service, combining the use of both the new and traditional materials - balloons, banners, garlands, flowers and plants.
Balloons now come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used collectively made up as hearts, hoops, arches, entwined initials and a wide variety of other designs. They come in latex or foil, clear, pearlised or metallic and in a wide range of colours. Printed messages and even designs to match disposable tableware are also available. Ensure that you are using a professional decorator. Displays can be fixed in many ways and positioned almost anywhere, but the professional will know the correct materials to use to prevent damage. A bill from your banqueting suite for damage to its premises can be expensive and having your reception stopped by the Health & Safety Officer can be, to say the least, embarrassing! The professional decorator will avoid both of these eventualities.
Function room decoration is particularly well suited to enhancing the Wedding Reception. There are a number of professional organisations to which hall decorators may belong and they will be happy to identify your nearest registered decorator. The balloon industry now has an international qualification members of The Qualatex Balloon Network undergo extensive training to achieve the Certified Balloon Artists Award (CBA) and this gives the assurance that your wedding decorations will be of the highest professional standards.
As in all facets of planning your wedding, check prices and value for money offered. Fix an appointment to see your decorator and look at samples of their work. Professionals will want to spend time with you, to ensure that you have a venue for your reception decorated with fully integrated colours and textures, which will really enhance your special day.
Do you think it is worth spending a few hundred or even a couple of thousand on decorations? or do you think after a few drinks nobody will care what the venue looks like anyway?!
Photographers - Are they worth the money?
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One area where you must use a professional and rely on his expertise is with the photography of your wedding. Don’t err on the side of politeness, or economy, when friends or relations offer to take your wedding photographs. You need a professional wedding photographer who can cope with the unforeseen and avoid potential disasters.
A professional wedding photographer will arrange the groups of family and friends to include all the important studies. He will make the best use of the surroundings to produce the intimate, general and special effect photographs so necessary for your present enjoyment and lasting pleasure. By his control and confidence, order and meaning will be brought to the photographs of your special day. Book your photographer as soon as you can, it could be an advantage to do this early as some photographers will hold their quoted price for your wedding photographs even though your wedding may be over twelve months ahead, and good photographers get booked up.
A specialist wedding photographer will have the knowledge and experience to produce quality photographs even under adverse conditions. He will provide a set of colour photographs that will capture the importance and romance of your wedding day, whatever the weather or venue. Select your photographer with care; look at your friends’ wedding photographs for example and then insist on visiting your chosen photographer at his studio. He will be pleased to show you more examples of his work and explain his method of coverage and prices.
Discuss the photographs you would like taken at your wedding. Although it is quite possible that they would already be included in your photographer’s coverage, the more information you give him about your wishes the better he can understand your requirements. If you intend arriving at the church in a horse and carriage, or other unusual form of transport, let your photographer know about the extra amount of journey time this could take.
Some photographers charge an attendance fee, plus the cost of each photograph and the album as additional items. Others will offer a “Package Deal”. In this case they will quote an all-in price for the photography, album and a number of prints. This method may make it easier for you to budget your finances, but be sure to select the system that suits you best. Once you’re satisfied with the arrangements, relax and leave the photographer to get on with the job of producing a fine set of photographs.
Despite the above they are alot of money. Do you think professional photographers are worth the money?
Music & Entertainment - What’s your first song going to be?
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The music and entertainment for your wedding day is a reflection of your special feelings of happiness. To make your wedding day unique, wedding ceremony music can be used and may feature soloists, instrumentalists, choral or congregational singing, a harpist, a classical guitarist, a piper or, where distances allow, even a jazz band walking in front of the wedding cars to the reception.
Your theme can continue through the afternoon and evening receptions with a pianist or other instrumentalist - from duo to quintet - playing during the dinner hour with, perhaps, a close-up magician, and even a children’s entertainer to keep your younger guests amused. Add to this a live band or disc jockey and a fireworks display in the evening and you have something appropriate for everyone.
Contact a number of professionals who specialise in the types of entertainment you have decided upon. Attend one of their performances. Ascertain the number of performers and the amount of space they will need. Discuss whether you can supply lists of your families’ favourite songs, or if their routine is preset. Ask about their attire and find out how often and for how long they “break”. Compare costs, note whether the price is based on a flat fee or an hourly rate.
Finalise arrangements with your chosen entertainers as early as possible, as good performers are often booked up several months in advance. Two weeks before the wedding, talk to your entertainers again to confirm the date, location, set-up schedule and the time performances will begin and end.
The most important song on your wedding day, will be your First Song? What will yours be?
Mothers’ Outfits
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The mother of the bride and mother of the bridegroom have a long and exciting day ahead of them and it is a wonderful excuse to wear a really special outfit. However, in this day and age, where casual dressing is the norm, we should take special care to select an appropriate outfit for this special occasion. This is where it is important to visit the specialist shops who have the expertise to advise on colour, shape and accessorising.
It is worth taking time beforehand to discuss with the bride suitable colour schemes for both parents, but do be flexible when looking around the shops. This purchase is meant to be enjoyable not a chore! The choice of styles for mothers is very varied - everything from smart tailored suits to soft floaty styles. It is better to wear the style that suits you rather than what you think others expect you to wear!
A hat is a must, but it can make or break an outfit. The right advice again is vital. Some shops have hats made to match the outfits or can trim hats with matching material.
Mothers will spend a large part of the day on their feet, so comfortable shoes are important. Shoes and handbag should blend with the outfit - they are not the things you want to see in the photographs first. No shoulder bags nor those that carry the kitchen sink on this day please! It is possible to have shoes and handbag dyed to match your outfit, but do remember, if they are fabric, to spray them with a waterproof spray.
Jewellery to complement the outfit is important - do not be tempted to wear “grandmother’s pearls” if they really do not go.
Last, but not least, gloves are optional nowadays but are usually worn with the more tailored suits and, of course, for Autumn and Winter weddings. The most important thing is to relax, feel comfortable and ENJOY THE DAY.
What will you wear? or for brides and grooms what will you let your mothers wear? Post a link so that you can share with brides & grooms to be!
Wedding Lingerie
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Once you’ve chosen your wedding gown, it is important to shop for the proper intimate apparel for your “dream dress”.
A good lingerie shop will have just what you need. When you shop, bring an accurate description - or better yet, a picture - of your wedding gown. Being properly fitted by a “lingerie expert” is vital - correctly fitted lingerie will ensure that you are looking perfect, and feeling comfortable on your wedding day. Shop early, because it is important to wear your intimate apparel to all wedding gown fittings.
Whilst you are there, why not browse through the shop for other lingerie to complete your trousseau. Forget to be practical, just this once, and try on sensuous negligees and peignoir ensembles for your wedding night.
Other items you should consider purchasing include teddies, camisoles, nightgowns, and coordinated pantie, bra and slip sets to wear with your honeymoon outfits.
Today’s bride can choose from a large variety of elegant lingerie. What better time is there to splash out on feminine beauty and luxury than for your wedding and honeymoon? Beautiful, sensuous lingerie should be your gift to yourself.
What do you brides think? Any suggestions? Recommendations? Tips?
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