Here is a selection of Q&As from Your Cheshire & Merseyside 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@yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding
To view more expert advice on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
Getting to know you
Q. What are your top trend predictions for 2023?
A. Matthew Fitzpatrick says: "If we're honest, most of us hate having our photos taken unless it's selfies with friends, of course! But when it comes to paying someone professionally, most of us shudder at the idea and struggle to feel at our natural best. So, with more couples looking for less traditional photography, instead wanting their wedding story to be documented, how do you learn to be relaxed in front of the camera?
While the idea of an engagement shoot isn't new, how they are structured is changing, causing even the most camera-shy to look again. When working with our couples, we typically set aside a three-hour time slot for a session, giving them plenty of time to relax without any time pressure. It enables us to walk, talk and take in different backdrops. It allows couples to find out what works for them and discover how they feel most comfortable being photographed. In the end, even the most camera-shy are surprised by how much fun they had.
It's only natural to feel anxious in the run up to the wedding, but getting to know your suppliers, especially those you'll spend a lot of time with, can genuinely help. Understanding how they're going to work removes the fear of the unknown meaning you can relax and enjoy the day more.
Matthew Fitzpatrick, Fitzpatrick Photography
fitzpatrickphotography.co.uk
Candid camera
Q. What are your top trend predictions for 2023?
A. Andrew Boyle says: As we all get back to normal, many couples appreciate the opportunity to have their wedding day exactly as they want it. Some are opting for an all-out approach with everything they've ever dreamed of, while for others a more intimate affair is appealing.
A photographer who listens carefully to your plans and ideas is a great place to start. Chatting about yourselves, your hopes and maybe some concerns about being in front of the camera will help you to be more relaxed and enjoy all aspects of the day you've planned so carefully. Whether you've chosen to marry in a castle, at your local village hall or anywhere in between, your photographer will find the best aspects for your first photos as a married couple, creating something special just for you. As we all know, most of us are at our most relaxed when we're not posing, so your photographer's ability to get on with your guests and capture the unscripted moments you probably don't see yourself creates some of the very best memories immortalised forever.
Andrew Boyle, Andy Boyle Photography
www.andyboylephotography.com
Snap happy
Q. We're looking for a wedding photographer, but we're a bit worried about booking someone online we've never met. Do you have any suggestions?
A. Karen Boyle says: In this day and age, it seems our entire lives can be run online, and indeed over the last two years much of our lives have been forced online. Whether it's ordering a pizza or shopping for a wedding photographer, it's often our first port of call in a busy life. When your life is hectic and you haven't managed to meet photographers at wedding fairs or other weddings, looking at their websites and chatting online can be fitted in any time. What catches your eye first will be the style of images they present. Do they appeal to your own sense of style? Take time to read any recommendations as well as any blogs they may have written as these will give you an idea of their personality. Clearly, you need to be able to communicate easily and comfortably. Ideally, they should respond to your initial enquiry within 24 hours, even if it's just a, "Thank you and welcome, we're working at a wedding today but will chat tomorrow." A helpful, fairly rapid response is always a good indicator.
Over the last couple of years we've all become accustomed to Zoom calls. They're a useful tool when you can't meet in person. They give you a chance to see faces, hear voices, ask questions and look at possible products such as photo albums. They give you the opportunity to see if the photographer is a good match for you both – just don't judge them by their wallpaper or contents of their shelves! We've enjoyed many giggles with clients negotiating the vagaries of video calls.
Never be afraid to ask questions. You might even want to know if they have any previous couples who'd be willing to chat with you. Planning your big day should be a pleasure not a chore, so most of all, enjoy yourselves!
Karen Boyle, Andy Boyle Photography
www.andyboylephotography.com
Rain or shine
Q. We're getting married in the autumn and our only concern is the unpredictability of the weather. How can we prepare for the worst (but hope for the best) when it comes to our photographs?
A. Daniel Cooper says: It's true, you can never depend on the weather in the UK, but it does create an opportunity for some amazing photos. Come rain, shine, fog or snow there's magic to be captured. A professional photographer should come prepared for all scenarios ensuring we get the best from your big day regardless of what the British weather throws at us.
Everyone would love to have the sun shining, but try not to let what you can't control affect your big day. Your photographer's experience should give you confidence that only the best photos will emerge whatever the weather, indeed I've captured weddings in all conditions. For example, this image was taken in the Peak District, so there'd normally be a breathtaking vista behind the couple, but we had to innovate and use the flashes to good effect. I believe the foggy background actually puts more focus on the couple, which is what we want to achieve for your special day.
Daniel Cooper, Daniel Cooper Photography
www.danielcooperphotography.com