Get Wedding Fayre Ready
This is the calm before the storm in the wedding world and that means one thing: Wedding fayre galore!
Not only will you be finding the Pink Beadie Productions table standing proud around the West Midlands but I’m also going to help you get wedding fayre ready!
Before The Wedding Fayre
I know this might seem like a strange section of advice but it will pay off if you consider doing some of them.
1.Pre-register if possible - it will give you the full benefits of an event, whether that a list of supplier, fast track entrance or a gift bag. Why wouldn’t you make your day better for free?
2. Do Your Research - Look into the venue hosting the event and the suppliers taking part. Make a list of those you want to keep an eye out for.
3. If you’ve already begun planning your wedding day, make a check list of what you already have - I don’t recommend looking at the stalls that offer something you have already sorted, it will only complicate things for everyone and sometimes lead to heart ache.
4. Budget - This will help narrow down your choices and allow you to ask relevant pricing questions. Depending what stages you are at you will also need to be prepared to put down a deposit if you find something you love.
5. Make note of any questions you’d like to ask, so you don’t forget in the moment.
At the Wedding Fayre
From the moment you arrive at the event every Supplier will want the chance to explain their service to you. If you have already ticked a service off your list, don’t be afraid to politely tell the supplier that you have already sorted that service, it will save everyone's time and the supplier will appreciate it.
1. Take a bag. Some fayres you will give a goody bag to on arrival but it’s not guaranteed and you're likely to find your hands filling quickly. Explore and be curious and you’ll find some really cool and unique elements to help personalize your wedding day and make it more memorable.
2. Take your take. This is meant to be an exciting and enjoyable time, so don’t rush.
3. Collect Business Cards & Brochures. You might not remember all the details, so grab contact info to follow up later.
4. Take pictures and notes. There are going to be many suppliers offering similar services (especially Photographers) and it can be hard to remember who is who. If a supplier stands out, jot down why you liked them.
5. Look Out for Exclusive Deals. Many suppliers offer discounts or freebies for bookings made at the fayre.
6. Enter Competitions. You might win discounts or even free wedding services!
7. Be Open-Minded. You may discover ideas you hadn’t thought of before.
8. Ask Your Stupid Question. Trust me it’s not stupid. As a wedding photographer, the likely hood is that I've been involved with a lot more weddings than you. I'm also an expert wedding photographer and I don’t expect you to automatically know everything about wedding photography. The same will be said for the other suppliers and their craft. Even if it is not photography related, the chance is that I'll be able to answer or steer you in the right direction.
After the Wedding Fayre
When you get home I recommend brewing you both a hot drink or something a little stronger if that's what you prefer and taking the time to discuss your plans. Share your favorites and narrow down choices together.
1. Follow Up Quickly. Popular suppliers get booked fast, so if you love someone’s work, get in touch soon. As a wedding photographer, I know that I’m high up on the planning check list and will often be the second or third supplier you lock down. Following Venue and Officiant. This means we’ll be snapped up quickly.
2. Compare Options. Review your notes, price lists, and photos to make informed decisions.
3. Book Key Suppliers ASAP. Venues, photographers, and caterers tend to get snapped up early.
