Important Tips for Planning your Wedding

Service charges and taxes: These can add up, especially with vendors like caterers and venues. Always ask if the quoted price includes all additional fees, and depending on where you get married (e.g. overseas), you may have to factor in tips for venues.
Alterations: Wedding dress or suit alterations are often forgotten in the budget, double check that you are happy with everybody’s dresses and suits!
Post-event cleanup: Some venues charge extra for cleaning, or you may need to hire someone to do it, and I recommend asking the venue about cleanup if you haven’t already.

Photographers, videographers, DJs, and planners might be with you for long hours. Make sure to check with your vendors if you need to provide a meal for them, especially for remote weddings.

I will usually accept a meal from a couple if they offer one, however I also plan my own food and drink so my couples are not expected to provide food for me.

Things often take longer than planned on the day of the wedding. Build in extra time between major events, like photos, ceremony, and reception, to account for unexpected delays and allow you to enjoy the day stress-free.

To and from the venue: Not just for the couple, but for guests too, especially if your venue is remote or difficult to access.
Parking: Ensure there’s enough parking for guests or provide shuttles if necessary.

If your wedding is outdoors, (or anywhere in Australia!) have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Whether it’s renting a tent or having an indoor space on standby, make sure you're prepared for rain, heat, or cold. (Bonus points if you get pretty umbrellas)

Communicate with your photographer about specific moments or people you don’t want to miss in your photos, such as a special family heirloom, a surprise performance, secret plans, or a group shot with certain guests.

If your wedding is outdoors, think about weather-appropriate solutions for guests, such as:
- Fans, parasols, or sunscreen for hot days
- Blankets or heaters for cold evenings
- Easily accessible restrooms

Make sure you know the rules for applying for a marriage license, including the waiting period and expiration date. This is essential for making the marriage legal. You can always ask your celebrant if you are unsure.

Even if you don’t have a full wedding planner, having a day-of coordinator can save you from managing last-minute details. They can ensure everything runs smoothly, leaving you free to enjoy the day.
As photographer, I will always offer help on the day to make sure things are running on time, however it is usually recommended to have someone allocated the task, such as the MC, or a planner (especially for large weddings!)

A small kit with essentials like safety pins, band-aids, mints, tissues, makeup touch-up items, and pain relievers can help with minor mishaps during the day. (Bonus if you buy the same lipstick that your MUA uses, ask your artist if you can buy theirs!)

Brides and grooms often forget about having a pair of comfortable shoes for after the ceremony or during the reception. It’s a long day, and comfortable shoes will be a lifesaver after hours in dress shoes or heels.

Don’t forget to arrange thank-you notes for your guests or any special gifts for your bridal party and family members, like parents or close friends who’ve supported you, this is a great way to make your wedding stand out from the others!

Plan how you’ll get your gifts and personal items home after the wedding, and who will take care of cleaning up or returning rental items. My wife & I forgot this at our wedding, and it was a little bit of a headache.

Wedding Tips