7 things every couple planning a wedding should know
7 Things Every Couple Planning a Wedding Should Know
A Manchester Wedding Videographer’s Perspective
Planning a wedding is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you are trying to make sure everything runs smoothly. After filming weddings across Manchester and the rest of the UK, I have seen the same patterns again and again. Small decisions can make a huge difference to how relaxed your day feels and how beautifully your wedding film turns out.
Here are seven things every couple should know before the big day.
1. Give Yourself More Time Than You Think For Bridal Preparations
The morning of the wedding sets the tone for the entire day. If you have more than three bridesmaids, plus mums, aunties and flower girls all getting ready in the same space, you will need far more time than you expect.
I have seen brides become stressed as the ceremony time gets closer and hair and makeup are still being finished. You do not want to rush through one of the most special parts of your day.
2. Keep the Bridal Suite Cool, Especially in Summer
If your wedding is in the summer or in a warm venue, make sure the bridal suite has fans or air conditioning. I have seen bridesmaids and even brides start melting before the ceremony because the room was too warm.
Hair and makeup look their best when the room is cool and comfortable. It also helps you feel fresher and more relaxed on camera.
3. Save The Bride’s Hair And Makeup For Last
This one sounds simple, but it makes a huge difference. If the bride is finished too early, she may need retouching before the ceremony. When there are many people getting ready, it is easy for the bride to be done first by accident.
Saving the bride for last keeps her looking fresh and confident for the ceremony and for the wedding film.
Learn more with timing your hair and makeup for the best results
4. Make Sure Your Videographer And Photographer Do Not Crowd The Room
Bridal prep can get busy. Bridesmaids, makeup artists, hair stylists, family members, venue staff. The last thing you need is your videographer or photographer adding to the chaos.
As a filmmaker, I prefer to work quietly in the background. I capture everything without interrupting the flow of the morning. The best footage comes from natural moments, not staged ones.
5. If You Have A Large Bridal Party, Avoid Early Ceremony Times
If you have many bridesmaids or a big family getting ready, a ceremony at midday can create unnecessary pressure. A 2pm ceremony gives everyone more breathing room and keeps the morning calm.
It is not always possible to choose your ceremony time, but it is worth mentioning your preference early.
6. Walk Slowly During The Bridal Procession
One thing I always tell bridesmaids and brides is this. Do not rush down the aisle.
The aisle walk is one of the most emotional moments of the day. You have spent time choosing dresses, flowers and music. Let the moment breathe. When people rush, it is usually nerves.
A slow, graceful walk looks beautiful in your wedding film and gives your photographer time to capture the moment properly.
7. Decide When Speeches Should Happen Before The Day
This is one of the biggest tips I share with every couple.
If you have a lot of group photos or couple portraits planned after the drinks reception, consider having speeches before the meal. Venues often need to serve food on time, and I have seen couples rushed through their photo and video time because the kitchen is waiting.
If your wedding is in autumn or winter, this becomes even more important because daylight disappears quickly.
Nervous speakers also prefer speeches before the meal so they can relax and enjoy the evening.
If you are planning your wedding and would love a film that feels cinematic, emotional and tailored to you, I would love to hear about your plans.