When it comes to wedding planning, do you think you’ve heard it all? Three exhibitors from The Wedding Expo share some secrets you won’t know about.
1 Venue know-how
By Jade Wollgraaf of Jade Customised Events
Be clear on the setup
Make sure you understand what your venue means when they talk about maximum capacity. It may not include space for a dance floor! Don’t wait for the day to know the answer.
Remember VAT!
Not being clear on whether ALL the prices include VAT can serious cripple you when you receive the final bill with 14% added on.
Cheaper is not better
It’s not worth sacrificing your overall wedding to save R1 000 and having, say, an awful DJ and that’s all your guests are talking about after the wedding. Tip! Surround yourself with good, recommended suppliers.
DIY may not be more cost effective
Often your décor stylist has to purchase or hire these items in and if you are doing things from scratch, enough stock of all the materials for an 80 guest wedding can be prohibitive!
2 Wedding dress sense
By Leah El Mekkaoui from Leah Francisca Bridal
Be wary of buying online
Go to a professional for guidance, they have years of experience in fitting the garment and any alterations needed can be done well in time.
Wear what makes you happy
Forget about what others expect you to wear. The best dresses I’ve made for brides who had the most fun were not always white or ivory, and not always traditional. This is your day, your dress, your style. You don’t have to wear white to say ‘bride’, your invite has informed everyone already!
3 Photography solutions
By Radiefa Peters from Radz Photography
Have a pre-wedding shoot
This really helps to get you comfortable with posing and being in front of the camera – especially if you are camera shy. It also gives you time to get to know your photographer which will help them capture the best #memories.
Feed your service providers
It’s a long day, and your suppliers and photographer could also use a little sustenance to help them perform better.
Visit the Wedding Expo, where you can meet all the suppliers under one roof.
Cape Town: 11 and 12 June, CTICC (R100 at the door, R80 online)
Durban: 6 and 7 August, Moses Mabhida Stadium (R100 at the door, R80 online)
Johannesburg: 27 and 28 August, Ticketpro Dome (R120 at the door, R100 online)
For more planning tips, tricks and inspiration, visit our wedding section.
