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Sunday, March 27, 2011

Breathe easy, sit back, and relax on your big day

‘Once in a lifetime’, ‘absolutely perfect’, ‘special’… We all want our weddings to be THE bestest, one-of-a-kind, flawless, and perfect (oops did I use that already?) occasion. The perfect gown, the perfect hair, the perfect location, the perfect flowers, the perfect band, the perfect songs, the perfect cake, the perfect ring…on your perfect man. We create so many expectations for ourselves, that now and then we should ask ourselves: Is this really necessary?

Well, I’m referring to the often self-imposed stress, rather than the wedding itself. I believe one’s wedding day should be a day of celebration, fun, and laughter. And tears should only be shed for joy, with precious memories to keep and treasure, yet not over-shadowing a lifetime ahead of happily ever after.

To take the spotlight off the actual wedding day, pre-wedding photography seems like the ideal way to capture the happiness and emotions of getting married.

It was not so long ago that my fiancé and I had decided to venture overseas for our pre-wedding photography shoot. We enjoyed nice cool Spring weather, warm friendly service from the crew, breathtaking scenery en-route, a fantastic album of delightful memories for keeps, and extended the trip into our little pre-wedding honeymoon!

Before you pack your bags and go, there are a few things to take note of:

1. ‘I want to be the most beautiful bride in the world...’ Where are your gowns and dresses coming from – do you source them from your home country, or will the overseas studio provide them? What types of bridal fashion styles are popular there and do they fit with what you are looking for? Imagine not being able to find something you like on the eve of the photoshoot… Korean and Taiwanese tend to go for more soft, romantic looks with chiffon and tulle, while Hong Kongers prefer dramatized outfits (think feathers and bold colours).

I was pleasantly surprised by the quality (excellent workmanship) and range of selection available overseas (including a ballroom gown that looks like my favourite Disney princess’, Cinderella), despite having to deal with some anxiety of not being able to find THE perfect gown before that!

2. ‘I wanted turquoise, not green…’ Communication can become a problem if you don’t speak the local language. Make sure you have a translator, otherwise it could be difficult trying to pin-point what you want exactly.

3. ‘Yes, we want to look like part of Marry Me, Mary…’ Different photographers have different styles and preferences. Some may prefer classic, artistic, or vintage styles, while others may embrace spontaneous, casual, or dynamic looks. Have a chat with your photographer before the shoot and get to know each other a little better. This connection helps to build trust and align expectations so you can set your mind at ease. More importantly, it allows him to draw out the best expressions from you and your fiancé during the shoot.

Apart of photography styles, think about what back-drops you would like to capture – city-scape vs. greenery; modern architecture vs. rustic cottages; sandy beaches vs. hilly mountains… Go with a vendor who can bring you to a location with these varied surroundings and you’ll be spoilt for choices!

4. ‘…but we want to make it personal too…’ Where did you have your first kiss? Where and how did he propose? Any favourite drama or movies you both like? Where are your frequent hang-out spots? Your dream honeymoon location? Anything that has a special meaning to your relationship such as pets, clothes, bicycles, toys, musical instruments etc.? Incorporate these elements into your wedding shoot to tell your love story and make it an even more memorable one.

5. ‘What does the weatherman say?’ Check out the season and weather, especially if the shoots are taking place outdoors. Bring a shawl along if it’s going to be chilly, or sunnies and sunblock lotion for sunny weather. Temperate countries with seasonal changes offer varied scenery – beautiful flowers blooming in Spring give a vibrant and lively feel vs. red maple leaves falling during Autumn offers a charming and enchanting mood. Make sure your wedding co-ordinator has an alternative wet weather plan too!

Now you’re all ready to head off! Just relax, enjoy being pampered, and immerse yourselves in the feeling of love!

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