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As Calgary elopement photographers who become deeply invested in the wedding planning process with our couples, we couldn't wait to bring Reava from WeddingWorx to the blog! For our couples eloping in Calgary and the Rocky Mountains, we usually tell them they don't need a wedding planner because we guide them through the process so thoroughly (we still recommend WeddingWorx for their rentals though!). For larger weddings though, it's DEFINITELY helpful to have a day of coordinator confirming all the details while we take your photos.
On our Fly Free blog, we love to bring you our favorite Calgary wedding vendors and best advice for planning a wedding or elopement, so it was only natural we ask Reava to share her expertise on the blog! We asked real wedding planning questions and couldn't agree more with her responses. If you have any questions or are looking for a Calgary wedding photographer, make sure to reach out here.
Do I need a wedding website?
The short answer is Yes! A wedding website is extremely helpful to invited guests and the more information the better. You can put all of your important information on there like the ceremony and reception venues, address, directions and times. You can also include things like the menu, dress code, gift registry information and any other information you would like to pass along to your guests.
Pro Tip: for the ceremony time we recommend putting the start time 15 minutes earlier than your actual time to avoid anyone arriving late.
How do I create my wedding timeline?
The wonderful thing about weddings now is that there really aren't any rules to stick to. You can have your day go in any order you like. Customize the day to suit the elements of your day.
For the flow and timing always speak to your trusted wedding pro team, they can help you by letting you know how much time they require. Start with your hair and makeup team to see how much time they require for getting ready. Then, check in with your photography team as they will also let you know how much time they need for getting ready photos, first look (if opting), family portraits and then your just married, formal session. Lastly, inquire with your venue/catering team so they can suggest how much time is needed for dinner service. These times will vary on guest count and if you are having a buffet or plated dinner. Once you have those main components confirmed you can add everything else in.
Fly Free Photo Tip: Raeva hit the nail on the head with this! Customize your day based on YOUR priorities and hire experienced professionals to guide you! We LOVE helping our couples plan their wedding day timeline, shot list, and so much more. When you hire us, you get more than just stunning photos and video!
When do guests have to RSVP for a wedding?
Have your RSVP date approximately 6 weeks prior to the wedding date. Most venues and vendors require your final numbers 4 weeks prior. So giving yourself that little extra two weeks will allow you to follow up with any outstanding guests.
Pro Tip: Expect a last minute cancellation or two. This happens with almost every wedding that a guest becomes ill or something prevents them from making the day. Don't stress.
Do we need to have a seating chart?
Yes! We don't recommend letting guests seat themselves as it can be awkward. For your guests, not knowing where they should be seated is stressful. Even if you don't have a designated seat with a place card for every guest, a designated table works wonders. Say yes to a reception seating plan.
Do we need wedding favours?
No. Wedding favours are becoming less and less common. My best advice is know your crowd, they won't be missed if you opt not to go with them. If you choose to go the wedding favour route food is always a fantastic option. They can snack on it while waiting for dinner or eat it at some point through the night. Non food wedding favours are one of the top items I pack up at the end of the night.
I don't need a wedding planner but would like help on the wedding day. What are my options?
I get so many inquiries from couples who love the planning process but then start to panic as the day draws closer and they don't know who will help execute all of the details on the wedding day. My number one suggestion would be to opt for a Wedding Coordinator.
A Wedding Coordinator provides the 'day of' assistance but most planners offer more of a "Month Of" service. The planner will be the point of contact for the wedding day. This will allow you to relax and enjoy the wedding day and not stress or worry about the details. Coordinators take care of any and all vendor inquiries, pick ups, deliveries, set up, ceremony coordination, reception coordination and so much more. It is like having a personal assistant for the day.
If a wedding coordinator is not in your budget then a trusted friend or family member who is not in the wedding party is another great option. Just make sure to meet with them the week before the wedding and run through the day and have a checklist of what is needing to be done so you can rest assured your vision will come together as planned.
Planning a Wedding in Calgary, AB (or beyond!)
We are SO grateful for WeddingWorx sharing their expertise on the blog today! If you are planning a wedding in Calgary (or beyond) make sure to find more advice and inspiration on our blog here! If you are looking for a wedding photo and video team, you can learn more about our wedding photography and videography packages here. We only have a tiny amount of 2021 wedding dates left and are booking fast for 2022. We would LOVE to hear from you and get your wedding date on our calendar. Contact us here!