Here is a selection of Q&As from Your West Midlands Wedding magazine whether it be about flowers, hair and makeup, fashion, wedding themes, health & beauty, cakes, stationery, legal advice. If you would like your question answered by our experts, please email it to editor@yourwestmidlands.wedding
To view more expert advice on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
Hold me close
Q. My wife-to-be and I are both camera shy and are feeling anxious about having our photos taken on our wedding day, but also want a lovely album to look back on. Can you offer us some advice?
A. Paul Mc Ardle says: Allow me to let you in on a little secret, 95 per cent of couples that I have enjoyed photographing over the years also, initially, were just like you, so take comfort in the knowledge that you're not alone with this concern. So, where do you start?
Choosing the right person to be your photographer is the first step towards overcoming your anxiety. Research reviews, how did the photographer you are considering make other couples feel?
Now that you've chosen the right person as your photographer, why not arrange a pre-wedding shoot? Get all those feelings out of the way so that you don't have to deal with them on the most important day of your life. With the right person behind the camera, they will go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and the experience fun.
Whether or not you have had a pre-shoot, remember that you chose the right person to begin with, and they're going to give you the personal space to enjoy your day and make you feel comfortable throughout. The most anxious part for couples on their wedding day isn't the morning preparations, the ceremony or even the formal family photos, it's the dreaded, both of you on your own with your photographer. If you're naturally touchy-feely, then hug and feel or if you're naturally full of kisses and sweet words, then kiss and whisper. After that, let your photographer take you both for a little walk to some lovely spots and just see what happens along the way. The point is to forget about the camera and your photos, that's your photographer's job and don't forget, you chose this person because you liked them and not just their photos.
Paul Mc Ardle, P & S Photography
www.pandsphotography.co.uk
The look of love
Q. How can we ensure our photographer is the right fit for our nuptials?
A. Amy Perkins says: Choosing your wedding photographer is a big deal, and making sure you have the right person is a must. They will be there with you right from prep through to the first dance and beyond, so it's essential you feel relaxed and comfortable around them. Get to know your photographer and see if you click. Take them up on any meetings or virtual calls that they offer and book a pre-wedding shoot if possible. This is a great way to see how they work and prepare yourself for your big day, and feel more at ease in front of the camera.
Your photographer shoud be your extra bridesmaid, your wingman, and your timekeeper, they will be there to support you and advise you on anything you're not sure of.
Have a clear idea of the style you want for your day. Most wedding photographers have their own look, so making sure they're the right person for you is key. Some have a documentary look, and others are more traditional offering posed pictures.
Don't be afraid to ask to see a full gallery. Most photographers have example galleries that they can send to you so that you can get an idea of how your gallery may look.
Most photographers have their own editing style, some are light and airy, and others are darker and warmer. So bare this in mind when looking at their portfolio. Lastly, don't be afraid to ask questions!
Amy Perkins, Humblebee Photography
www.humblebeephotography.co.uk
Ready, steady, pose!
Q. My wife-to-be and I want to find the perfect photographer. How do you suggest we go about this?
A. Heather Rees says: Finding the perfect photographer can be tricky as there are so many to choose from. Look online for examples and see what sort of style you gravitate towards. For example, is it light and airy or documentary? Once you've decided on this, begin searching for photographers with that style.
Listen to any recommendations from your venue or loved ones. It's reassuring to know someone has worked with them before and that they deliver a high-quality product.
Lastly, meet any photographers you have short listed face-to-face or call them for a chat. You will spend a large amount of your wedding day with them, so it's important you gel. Do they put you at ease? Does the conversation flow? The more relaxed you are with your photographer, the more natural your photos will be.
Heather Rees, Heather Rees Photography
www.heatherreesphotography.co.uk