As I was sitting and thinking about the weddings and what I hear from brides, I admit, I feel a sense of caution about brides who choose to use some family members or friends as their wedding “professionals”.
Herein lies the problem. Brides see the “value” of saving lots of money doing the DIY wedding. However, as a wedding pro for 30+ years, I can say that it is not always as easy as it sounds.
A “free” family member can cancel at the last minute because of a work schedule or another commitment somewhere else. How about a “free” or “cheap” friend at work?
I have shared this story before about an Uncle who was scheduled to do the wedding so “save” the bride some money. The bride, in this instance, had her heart set on Bello Romance Photography. Her mother was so concerned about her friends that she neglected to consider the brides’ thoughts or her vision of the wedding. Turns out her uncle was in the urinal when she walked down the aisle. I guess she wasn’t THAT important. Just to save money can have a disastrous effect on the biggest day of your life. He also spent “family” time with the people at the bar and missed the cakes cutting and other assorted “important” moments. Was the savings worth her misery?
Maybe photography is not important to you. Maybe it your cousin who says he can do the music for the event. This wedding event is more about moving things along correctly. Having a deejay who can emcee can help the flow. Your wedding is not just about playing music.
What about a planner who can help keep your stress down? Hiring a planner can not only save you stress, but can also save you some money. We know the budget is a real thing, but should not be the most important thing.
What about music? Recently I photographed a wedding where the deejay had no clue about his presentation. He stuttered through introductions. He stopped and started abruptly. Was not smooth. Be he was CHEAP. Hmmm! Do you think his ability did not go unnoticed.
If you want your event to be at the Crown Plaza, or D’Amore, Oak Hill Mansion, Scottish Rite Cathedral or Mavris Arts & Event Center, etc, yet you do not hire a professional photographer to capture that, it will be a sad ending and nothing to show for the greatest event of your lifetime.
If you bring in the word “cheap”, you will shortchange the most important day of your life. I would think that a bride & groom would want their most special day to be remembered well. Great artistic photographic images for the remembrances in 20 to 30 or more years down the road. Great music so people remember the party and the smooth flow because they hired a professional.
Choose your wedding resources carefully. You may walk away sadly disappointed if you don’t. And you cannot redo the day….EVER!
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