shots for when the weather is bad. The couple and bridal party shots are often at a different location too, which involves more travelling and assessment.
Planning and post-production take up huge amounts of time too. On the wedding day, the photographer is on duty from start to finish. Then the editing and processing of the photo’s start – one wedding can often take up two weeks to finalise.
Stretch your rands -
- With our wealth of local photographers, brides do not need to bring in out-of-towners, which come with travelling costs.
- Out of season nuptials can once again result in reduced rates in most cases.
- Less well known photographers may charge less, as they need to build their portfolio. Always insist on seeing examples of their work.
- Ask about package deals – a discount if the photographer does your engagement and wedding photo’s.
- Rather get the very best photographer and fewer prints, than a lesser photographer with more photo’s.
The Address
Venue hire makes up almost half of your budget in most cases, but the rates are flexible. The time of day, day of the week and time of the year determines the cost. Use less popular times for your Big Day and you will probably save. And yes, whatever the cost, it is warranted.The attention to detail at a wedding reception is very intricate, and everything must be ready before the other vendors arrive, and the day after, when they collect. So one wedding could take up three days of their schedule, during which, it cannot be rented out.
Stretch your rands -
- Make sure of exactly what is included in your contract. Negotiate to have unnecessary extras removed, or replaced with something that you would have to pay a different vendor for.
- Ask if the venue offers a discount for using its preferred vendors.
The Music
Every bridal cuple want to see a packed dancefloor, but cost-wise, what is the difference between a wedding and a corporate event?
As with the photographer, the relationship with the DJ is paramount. A lot of time is spent beforehand in discussion and getting to know each other. The opening music at a reception is very personal for the couple, and for the couple and their parents. The rest of the evening is a fine balance, catering for all of the age groups in attendance. Research is paramount, as is the preparation – the order of the music, ensuring that the recordings are all at the same sound level, having back-ups ready. The DJs set-up must always be neat – no scratched equipment with broken corners. Wiring must be out of sight, and secured.
Again, this is not another birthday party or year-end office bash. If equipment fails at a reception, the couple’s Most Important day is spoilt forever – they can’t redo it next year.
Stretch your rands -
- Book well in advance. DJ’s don’t only do weddings – they do private and corporate functions all year. The DJ may offer a discount if you pay early – just ask!
The professionals really do put in a lot of effort to make your day unforgettable. But don’t ever forget to wear your negotiating hat!