Weddings are meant to celebrate the bride and groom, but the actual event is a big day for everyone in attendance. Here are a few tips to share with your Annapolis wedding guests in advance to make sure that everything goes as planned:
Tip #1 – Spread the word that you’ve hired a pro!
Obvious, I know, but when guests see a professional photographer on site at your Annapolis wedding, it will help ease their concerns about missing the moment and trying to snag the shot themselves.
Prior to your wedding day, we’ll work together to create a must-have photo list. This includes your bridal portraits, detail shots, family, wedding party, and so on. Let all of your closest friends and family know that you’ve got the most important shots covered and that we are not going to forget about anyone. If you’re still hearing concerns, go ahead and share the list with them. You could even establish a specific order or time that you’d like the images to take place. That way everyone knows where they’re expected to be and when.
If you’re still hearing concerns, go ahead and share the list with them. You could even establish a specific order or time that you’d like the images to take place. That way everyone knows where they’re expected to be and when.
Tip #2 – Go unplugged.
If you’re really concerned about keeping guests and their cameras/phones under control, plan an unplugged wedding.
What does this mean? All of your wedding guests leave their devices (cell phones, tablets, cameras, etc.) at home or at least in the car. Seriously. It can be done and it’s a beautiful thing! Not only does it keep random cell phones out of my most favorite Annapolis wedding shots, but it also allows people to be free of other distractions and fully enjoy the day you’ve been planning for months!
Planning to go with an unplugged event? Be sure to tell guests ahead of time, maybe even include a note with the initial wedding invitation. That way you won’t have a constant stream of guests running back and forth to their cars before the ceremony.
Tip #3 – Be honest (and kind).
If your guests are beyond excited and just can’t seem to keep it together, here are a few simple ways to kindly ask them to move out of your way:
- Say ‘excuse me’. Sounds simple enough, but sometimes people just aren’t aware of space around them. Saying these two simple words will let them know that you’re there and are trying to pass by. In most cases, they’ll respect this and scoot out of your way.
- Ask the DJ or MC to make an announcement. If there’s an important moment coming up that you’d like to make all of the guests aware of or are just wanting to direct traffic a bit, ask the man (or woman) with the microphone to say it loud and clear.
Do your guests not seem to get the hint? Go ahead and blame it on the photographer. Whether you need to step away for a minute or just need someone to blame your need for space on, I’m your gal. I don’t mind being the excuse for a little buffer between you and your guests. Just let me know what you need and I’ll help however I can.
Tip #4 – Relax.
Both you and your guests should take the time to relax and enjoy this incredible moment. You will do everything possible to plan the perfect photos, the perfect day, the perfect wedding… but sometimes life happens and things get a little wonky for a moment. Don’t let this shake you! It’s still your special day. You’re still married. Life is good. Relax and enjoy it!
Are you ready to start designing the Annapolis wedding photos of your dreams? Let’s chat! I’d love to hear all about your plans and help you make them a reality. And don’t worry – when your wedding day arrives, I’ve totally got your back and am ready to assist with whatever you might need.
Here’s how you can get in touch with me:
Hannah @ HannahLane Photography
Your Annapolis Wedding Photographer
hannah@hannahlanephotography.com
Phone: 843.270.6682
