Maximising your time on your wedding day

Captured by Kate Roberge

Hey Friend,

How many times have you been told by newlyweds that their wedding day went by at the speed of light?

For me, and thankfully for many of the couples whose paths cross mine, going through the motions is definitely not something we stick to on their wedding day, but what people do struggle with is putting together a solid timeline of the day that is effective and allows the couple to truly maximise their time with their loved ones.

Short and sweet this week, because after the year we’ve had we all want an easy read! I thought I’d throw some ideas at you to think about including in your timelines, so whether you only have your photographer for a few hours and want to capture the most important moments, or you just want to get down and dirrty (maybe, maybe not) with your closest circle, I hope there is something in the mix that appeals to you!

Of course, if you’re wanting a traditional wedding timeline to act as a guide, I’ve written one here and it’s a great base if I do say so myself!

First and foremost, be smart about the logistics of your day. The fastest way to take up a photographers time is by travelling from one end of the city to another, so aim to have everyone get ready close to your wedding location if possible.

Saying your vows in private is one of the most special things I have the honour of encouraging and for good reason! Kiwi’s, in general, are rubbish at expressing emotion at the best of times, so take the pressure away and keep them between yourselves - you simply could not find a more perfect occasion to sound your promises and commitments to your other half. It will save time during your ceremony if it’s something you want to keep on the shorter and sweeter side and avoid the limelight!

Consider opting for a first look, or even get your money worth out of your wedding dress by having a creative shoot with your beau or belle the following day - It’s such a great way to unwind and reflect on the events just been!

Try not to get caught up in where your photos will be taken. A. It’s your photographer’s job 99% of the time to scout out different locations and they are more than capable of choosing the best spots on the day according to timings, light and weather conditions. They will also opt for nearby locations which means far less stress and less room for the timeline to get crazy outta whack! If you want to travel for your photos, this is where a creative shoot (as mentioned above) could be the perfect answer!

If you can, always have hair and makeup come to you. You will never regret it!

Be organised, I literally cannot stress this enough. If you want a hand with putting together run sheets, and sending out information to vendors I offer consultations to do this - I even have a DIY wedding package to guide you along the way.

You don’t have to have one at all, but your first dance also doesn’t have to be at the end of the dinner reception and I’m loving suggesting to my couples to do it as a part of their wedding party entrance - Especially if they have kiddies who love to get up and have a boogie! It’s such a cool way to include them before their bedtime.

You could also opt to cut the cake at the beginning of your reception too, or not at all! Your speech could easily follow this motion, saving the awkwardness of what to do post cake-cutting.

When it comes to entrees, I love opting for a shared platter style dish with bread and dips and it is a great option to choose if you’re likely to have a lot on the agenda for the evening as people can talk and guests can eat without too much disturbance from cutlery clinking against dishes.

I’ve been harping on about it for half a decade now, but whatever you choose to do on your wedding day, I encourage you to create an occasion that truly reflects you as a couple. After all, these choices will ensure your day remains a classic in your eyes in two, five or even 10 plus years time! If that means sticking to or transforming traditions and rituals to suit you then all power to you, but if you’re rule-breaking, risk-taking daredevils, throw all that is 'normal’ out the window and go crazy. If you’re stuck, please get in touch, nothing makes me more excited than having conversations around your epic ideas!

Until next,

Lucy x