Here is a selection of Q&As from Your Berks, Bucks and Oxon 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@yourberksbucksoxon.wedding
To view more expert advice on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
Caught on camera
Q. We've just got engaged so how do we go about booking a good wedding photographer?
A. Danielle Newton says: The quality of the photographer's work should be what captures your eye. If you're drawn to a particular photographer then ask to see their full portfolio because they should be able to offer candid and posed pictures along with other styles. Be aware that images should not be heavily edited, they should be natural.
Enquire whether they have a contract and the relevant insurance because all good photographers will have this in place. To get the best images of the most important day of your lives it's important that you both feel comfortable and relaxed with your chosen photographer. Ensure you meet them in person or via a video call before your big day to sense whether you have a connection.
Your photographer will play a big part in the organisation of your day. I have tweaked the hair for bridesmaids, dressed the bride and looked after children during my career as a wedding photographer. Taking photos is only a part of it so if a photographer does not have the necessary experience, the most important moments can be missed. Ask if they're willing to visit your venue and call or meet with your wedding coordinator because a professional will do all of this to ensure that their couples don't need to worry.
Most of my bookings have come from word of mouth from my previous clients. A good photographer will be able to give you some testimonials.
Danielle Newton, Danielle Newton Photogaphy
www.facebook.com/DanielleNewtonPhotography
Photography special
Q. How can I best prepare for being in front of the camera on my wedding day?
A. Rossana Novella says: I offer brides-to-be an editorial-style portrait session in my Berkshire-based studio or an outdoor location.
The images can be presented as prints, or framed in a large print, and they make a wonderful memory or a great gift idea.
On the actual wedding day, time goes by so fast, so it's wonderful to be able to capture some images beforehand in a relaxed setting. Why buy a wedding dress that you only wear once! Bring it along and if venturing outside, you could have an editorial-style portrait taken on a beach or in a woodland area, the choice is yours and we will work together to create something memorable.
Rossana Novella, Rossana Novella Photography
www.rossananovella.com
Photography special
Q. How can I best prepare for being in front of the camera on my wedding day?
A. Horatio Blajan says: A bridal shoot is a great way of gaining confidence in front of the camera before the big day itself and I offer these for brides or couples together. I also provide albums or prints from these shoots which make a wonderful keepsake.
My wife is a certified make-up artist (www.cosminamakeupartist.com) and can also be booked for studio shoots.
If your budget doesn't stretch to a shoot before your wedding then ask to meet your photographer via Zoom because it's important to build a relationship early on between you all. Engaging with your chosen photographer sooner rather than later is a top tip because with pent-up demand after the restrictions on weddings, they'll no doubt get booked up very quickly.
Horatio Blajan, Horatio Photography
www.horatiophotography.co.uk
