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COMPLETE GUIDE FOR A SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND WEDDING
As a devoted wedding filmmaker, I've had the incredible opportunity to witness and document countless celebrations across Southeast Queensland. As we delve into this wedding guide, a curated collection of South East Queensland's finest vendors, I invite you to explore with me the hidden talent behind a lot of celebrations of love here is Queensland.
Want to chat directly to me!?
Consider adding one (or more) of these tips or suppliers to your wedding day.
WEDDING GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Congratulations on Your Engagement!
1.2 The Importance of Choosing the Right Vendors
VENUE
2.1 Setting the Tone for Your Big Day
2.2 Capacity and Logistics
2.3 Outdoor vs. Indoor Venues
2.4 Budget Considerations
2.5 Questions to Ask Venue Providers
2.6 Do's and Don'ts
STYLIST
3.1 Defining Your Wedding Aesthetic
3.2 The Role of a Wedding Stylist
3.3 Collaborating with Your Stylist
3.4 Common Style Mistakes to Avoid
WEDDING PLANNER
4.1 Benefits of Hiring a Wedding Planner
4.2 What to Look for in a Wedding Planner
4.3 Planning Timeline Tips
4.4 Common Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner
HAIR STYLIST & MAKEUP ARTIST
5.1 Bridal Beauty: Hair and Makeup Considerations
5.2 Trials and Test Runs
5.3 Timing on the Big Day
5.4 Common Beauty Concerns and Solutions
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MUSICIANS
6.1 The Role of Music in Your Wedding
6.2 Live Band vs. DJ
6.3 Selecting the Right Songs
6.4 Ensuring a Smooth Musical Experience
PHOTOGRAPHER
7.1 The Importance of a Skilled Wedding Photographer
7.2 Style and Approach
7.3 Creating a Shot List
7.4 Addressing Common Photography Concerns
FLORIST
8.1 Style & Aesthetic Compatibility
8.2 Budget & Pricing
8.3 Communication & Collaboration
CELEBRANT + MC
9.1 Legalities and Requirements
9.2 Personalising Your Ceremony
9.3 Common Ceremony Missteps
9.4 Questions to Ask Your Celebrant
10.1 Wedding Bundle Signage Templates (Order of Events, Wishing Well, Table Numbers & Names, Brochures, reserving seating sign)
10.2 Timeline Templates (starting point)
CONCLUSION
11.1 Wrapping Up Your Wedding Journey
11.2 Have the Best day!
12.1 Boutique Online Stores
12.2 Cake
12.3 Dress Suppliers
12.4 Caters
12.5 Bar Tenders
12.6 Jewellery
Congratulations on Your Engagement!
As you embark on the exciting adventure of planning your wedding, we at Blue Vale Films extend our warmest congratulations and heartfelt best wishes. This time is filled with anticipation, nerves, excitement and the promise of a beautiful future together.
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As you navigate the path to your wedding day, remember to savor each moment, relishing the love that brought you to this point and the journey that lies ahead.
Choosing the right vendors.
Selecting the right vendors for your wedding day is a pivotal decision that can profoundly influence your entire experience. Each vendor contributes a unique touch to your celebration, shaping the atmosphere, and ensuring that every detail aligns seamlessly with your vision. Beyond their skills and services, vendors bring their personalities and passion into play.
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Their approach to your wedding day, the care they invest in understanding your vision, and the personality behind their brand can elevate your celebration. As you embark on this planning journey, take the time to connect with vendors who resonate with your style, values, and aspirations.
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CHOOSING THE PERFECT VENUE
2.1 Setting the Tone for Your Big Day
Choosing a wedding venue goes beyond aesthetics; it's about discovering a space with the unique characteristics that align with your vision. Whether it's the enchanting natural surroundings or an architectural charm. You can start to narrow down your selection just by location and the surroundings.
2.2 Capacity and Logistics
Considering the capacity and logistics of a wedding venue is crucial as it ensures not only a seamless flow of events but also guarantees that your chosen space can comfortably accommodate your guests, creating an intimate and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone on your special day. Do you want guests travelling to multiply locations? or are you having a sit down or cocktail style reception?
2.3 Outdoor vs. Indoor Venues
When comparing outdoor and indoor venues, it's essential to consider factors such as weather flexibility, ambiance, and the overall experience each setting offers. Outdoor venues often provide natural beauty and open-air charm, while indoor venues offer climate control and a more controlled environment. Reflect on your vision, weather considerations, and the desired atmosphere to make the choice that aligns perfectly with your dream wedding.
2.4 Budget Considerations
​When selecting a venue, it's crucial to carefully consider your budget and ensure that the chosen location aligns with your financial parameters. Evaluate not only the venue rental cost but also any additional fees, such as catering, decor, and potential hidden expenses. Prioritise elements that are most important to you, and explore venues that offer value for your investment, ensuring a beautiful and memorable celebration without compromising your overall budget. With more expensive venues you often get often get more included.
2.5 Questions to Ask Venue Providers
When booking a wedding venue, it's essential to ask detailed questions to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Here are some key inquiries:
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Availability and Capacity:
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Is the venue available on my desired date?
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What is the maximum capacity for the venue?
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Are there any restrictions or limitations on guest numbers?
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Cost and Payment:
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What is the total cost of renting the venue?
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Are there any additional fees or hidden costs?
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What is the payment schedule?
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Logistics:
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What is the setup and breakdown process for the event?
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Is there a designated event coordinator or manager on-site?
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Are there any restrictions on vendors, or do you have a preferred vendor list?
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Amenities and Services:
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What amenities are included in the rental fee?
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Is there on-site catering, or can I bring in an external caterer?
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Are tables, chairs, linens, and other essentials provided?
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Weather Contingency (for outdoor venues):
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What is the backup plan in case of inclement weather?
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Are there additional costs associated with weather-related changes?
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Venue Policies:
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Are there any specific rules or policies I should be aware of?
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What is the cancellation policy?
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Is there a noise curfew or time restrictions for the event?
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Accessibility:
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Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
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What parking options are available for guests?
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Decor and Setup:
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Are there any restrictions on decorations?
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Can I visit the venue in advance to plan the layout and décor?
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Vendor Load-In and Load-Out:
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What are the logistics for vendors to load in and out?
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Is there a designated area for vendor setup?
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Insurance and Liability:
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Do you require liability insurance?
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What is the venue's policy in case of damages?
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2.6 Do's and Don'ts
Do's: Visit multiply venues, Factor in logistics, confirm availability, Ask about restrictions, consider weather contingencies, clarify inclusions, understand the cancellation policies,
Don'ts: Ignore guests comfort, rush the decision, forget about setup and closing times, underestimate the weather, assume inclusions.
2.7 Recommendations:
Hinterland Vibe.
4.8/199 Google Reviews.
4.8/718 Google Reviews.
4.8/68 Google Reviews.
4.9/65 Google Reviews.
4.8/334 Google Reviews.
4.6/1,019 Google Reviews.
4.8/311 Google Reviews.
Country Property vibes.
4.7/116 Google Reviews.
4.9/108 Google Reviews.
4.7/116 Google Reviews.
5/3 Google Reviews.
City Vibe
4.5/962 Google Reviews.
4.8/173 Google Reviews.
4.1/392 Google Reviews.
4.6/349 Google Reviews.
FINDING YOUR STYLE: STYLIST RECOMMENDATIONS
A few suppliers to chat to
3.1 Defining Your Wedding Aesthetic:
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Defining your wedding aesthetic involves discovering and articulating the unique visual and thematic elements that resonate with your vision for the big day, helping your stylist understand the style, colours, and atmosphere you want to create.
3.2 The Role of a Wedding Stylist:
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A wedding stylist is your creative partner, responsible for bringing your vision to life. They curate and coordinate all visual elements, from decor to floral arrangements, ensuring a cohesive and stunning look that aligns with your wedding aesthetic.
3.3 Collaborating with Your Stylist:
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Collaboration with your stylist is key to a successful wedding design. Regular communication, sharing inspiration, and being open to their suggestions will result in a harmonious partnership, where your stylist can turn your ideas into reality.
3.4 Common Style Mistakes to Avoid:
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Avoiding common style mistakes is essential for achieving a polished and beautiful wedding aesthetic. This includes overcomplicating the design, neglecting the importance of balance, and not staying true to your chosen theme. Your stylist can guide you to steer clear of these pitfalls.
THE WEDDING PLANNER: YOUR GUIDE TO A STRESS-FREE DAY
4.1 Benefits of Hiring a Wedding Planner:
Hiring a wedding planner offers a wealth of benefits, such as reducing stress, saving time, and ensuring every detail is expertly executed, allowing you to savour the joy of your engagement while your planner handles the logistics.
4.2 What to Look for in a Wedding Planner:
When searching for a wedding planner, consider factors like experience, communication skills, and a compatible personality to ensure a seamless collaboration with someone who shares your vision and understands your unique needs.
4.3 Planning Timeline Tips:
Planning timeline tips provided by your wedding planner are essential for keeping your preparations on track. These include setting milestones, deadlines, and a structured schedule to ensure all aspects of your wedding are meticulously planned and executed.
4.4 Common Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner:
Asking common questions, such as inquiries about their portfolio, references, pricing structure, and their approach to handling unexpected challenges, will help you gain clarity and confidence in choosing the right wedding planner for your special day.
A few places Start the planning conversation
PERFECTING YOUR LOOK: HAIR STYLIST & MAKEUP ARTIST
5.1 Bridal Beauty: Hair and Makeup Considerations:
When selecting a wedding hair and makeup artist, consider your personal style, the overall wedding theme, and your skin type to ensure that the artist can create a look that enhances your natural beauty and complements your vision for the day.
5.2 Trials and Test Runs:
Schedule trials and test runs with your chosen artist to experiment with different hair and makeup looks. This allows you to fine-tune your bridal appearance, ensuring you feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day.
5.3 Timing on the Big Day:
Discuss the timing of hair and makeup services with your artist to ensure a stress-free wedding day schedule. Factor in ample time for both yourself and your bridal party, so everyone looks and feels their best when it matters most.
5.4 Common Beauty Concerns and Solutions:
Address common beauty concerns with your hair and makeup artist, whether it's concerns about longevity, potential allergies, or specific skin conditions. They can offer tailored solutions to ensure you look flawless and feel comfortable throughout the day.
Makeup Recommendations:
Hair Recommendations:
- Evalyn Parsons
HARMONIOUS MELODIES: CHOOSING THE RIGHT MUSICIANS
6.1 The Role of Music in Your Wedding:
Music plays a vital role in setting the mood and emotions of your wedding, so it's important to discuss with your musician how they can create a captivating and memorable musical experience tailored to your unique taste in music.
6.2 Live Band vs. DJ:
When deciding between a live band and a DJ, consider factors like your musical preferences, budget, and the atmosphere you want to create. Your choice will shape the overall musical ambiance of your celebration. Live music will have more control over the room, catering to the vibe, what guests are liking & disliking. You'll find people will more likely hit the dance floor if there is a live presence there. You can still have a mix of the two, start off with a live set then go into a DJ set during breaks and once the dance floor is in full swing.
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EXTRA TIP
In my personal opinion from witnessing a few weddings, try stay clear of a Spotify playlist on a guests phone. Often technical issues go wrong, phone dies, someone rings the phone with the music, someone isn't reading the room or vibe, the songs aren't mixed and you get dull moments on the dance floor during a song build. Try to avoid it if your budget allows it. The vibe during the ceremony & reception is very important.
6.3 Selecting the Right Songs:
Choosing the right songs is crucial in personalising your wedding experience. Work closely with your musician to curate a playlist that resonates with your taste, ensuring that every moment is accompanied by the perfect soundtrack.
6.4 Ensuring a Smooth Musical Experience:
To ensure a smooth musical experience on your big day, communicate your timeline, special requests, and any specific musical cues with your chosen musician or band. This collaboration will help create a harmonious and memorable atmosphere for your wedding.
Musician Recommendations:
David West Music + DJ
Elevation Live Band
Benny Hanna Wedding Singer
7.1 The Importance of an Experienced Wedding Photographer:
The ability to take a photo with a good camera unfortunately isn't everything. An experienced photographer will help you through the whole wedding process, from timeline drafts to tips & tricks. These factors are so important when deciding on your photographer. An experienced photographer will fix problems on the fly without you even realising anything is up. They can anticipate memorable moments yet keep an eye out for moments you as the couple might miss on the day.
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7.2 Style and Approach:
Explore the photographer's style and approach to determine if it aligns with your vision. Their artistic perspective and shooting style should resonate with the look and feel you desire for your wedding album. A few styles to look out for. Editorial, Journalists/Documentary, Traditional/Classic, Vintage/Retro, Artistic/Alternative. This will help narrow down your choices.
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7.3 Find Someone That Matches Your Personality:
Seek a photographer whose personality matches your own, as they will be by your side throughout the day. A photographer who understands and connects with you will create a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Your photos and the memory of the day will be better for it.
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7.4 Addressing Common Photography Concerns:
Openly discuss any common photography concerns with your photographer, often your concerns have been addressed or asked before. Clear communication ensures that you have confidence in your photographer's ability to capture your special moments flawlessly.
CAPTURING THE MOMENTS: PHOTOGRAPHER RECOMMENDATIONS
BLOOMS OF LOVE: FLORIST SELECTION
RECOMENDATIONS
8.1 Style & Aesthetic Compatibility
Choose a florist whose style and floral aesthetic align with your wedding vision. Review their portfolio to ensure they can create arrangements that match your desired look and feel, whether it's classic, rustic, bohemian, or modern.
8.2 Budget & Pricing
Clearly define your floral budget and discuss it with potential florists. Be transparent about your spending limits to ensure you receive proposals and recommendations that align with your financial constraints. Ask about pricing structures and any additional costs, such as delivery and setup fees.
8.3 Communication & Collaboration
Effective communication is essential. Choose a florist who listens to your ideas, offers suggestions, and is open to collaboration. A good florist should be responsive to your questions and requests and should be willing to work closely with you to bring your floral vision to life.
OFFICIATING YOUR LOVE: SELECTING A CELEBRANT
9.1 Legalities and Requirements:
Understanding the legalities and requirements associated with your wedding ceremony is essential. Your celebrant will guide you through the necessary paperwork, ensuring your marriage is legally recognised, and all official procedures are met.
9.2 Personalizing Your Ceremony:
Your celebrant plays a crucial role in personalising your ceremony to reflect your love story. Collaborate with them to incorporate meaningful rituals, readings, and vows, making your ceremony a unique and memorable reflection of your relationship.
9.3 Common Ceremony Missteps:
Learning about common ceremony missteps can help you and your celebrant avoid potential pitfalls, such as scheduling issues, script errors, or sound system glitches, ensuring a seamless and flawless ceremony.
9.4 Questions to Ask Your Celebrant:
Before selecting a celebrant, ask them essential questions about their experience, approach, and availability. Inquiring about their style, previous ceremonies, and any additional services they offer will help you make an informed decision and choose the perfect celebrant for your special day.
Recommendations:
DOWNLOADABLES
10.1 WEDDING BUNDLE SIGNAGE TEMPLATES
Includes:
- Invite Templates
Includes:
- Welcome Sign
- Seating Sign
- Table Sign
- Name Tag
- Menu
- Bar Menu
- Cards & Gifts Sign
- Guestbook Sign
10.2 Timeline Templates (starting point)
The Morning - Preparation
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When it comes to scheduling keep in mind how chilled you want the pace of everything to move. We don't want to going into the ceremony feeling flustered. We always suggest a minimum of 1 hour with each party in the morning. If you want to do a first look with each other, parents, or bridal party you'll need more time for this. Preparation + 1st looks = minimum 1.5hours.
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The Photo + Video team love to capture the process of getting ready so always communicate their ideal 'getting ready' process. Most of the time this doesn't include showering, so boys listen up! For both parties, put your accessories all together for the photo/video team.
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Male Prep: Boys showered and in dress pants & shirts, no accessories yet.
Female Prep: . Ideally when they arrive be in your 'pre-dress outfits' and Hair & MU are making the final touches.
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Tip: Communicate with the Hair & Makeup and let them know when the photo/video team is arriving and when they would like you in the dress. The Hair & Makeup team will figure out the rest for you.
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12 - 1pm PREP LOCATION 1 (address TBC)
15min travel time e.g
TIP: DON'T FORGET TO ALLOCATE TRAVEL TIME FOR PHOTO/VIDEO
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1:15pm - 2:15pm PREP LOCATION 2 (address TBC) Order: Details, Hair & MU final touches, Pre-dress shots, wedding dress, group photos.
15min Travel time e.g
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The Ceremony
TIP: ALLOW 30MINS FOR CEREMONY SETUP TO CAPTURE GUEST ARRIVING AND AUDIO CHECKS ETC.
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2:30pm Ceremony Setup (address TBC)
3pm - 3:30pm Ceremony.
3:30 - 4:45pm Congrats, Family photos
4:45 - 6pm Bridal Party & Couple photos (5:47pm Sunset.)
TIP: FOR BEST LIGHTING DURING PORTRAITS HAVE YOUR ENTRANCE POST SUNSET. MAKE SURE TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE VENUE YOU'D LIKE SUNSET PHOTOS IF SO. THAT WAY THE KITCHEN & OTHER VENDORS ARE AWARE.
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The Reception
6:15pm Entrance​ (venue location)
TIP: LIGHT IS AMAZING UNTIL 15MIN AFTER SUNSET, DONT SET YOUR ENTRANCE TO CLOSE TO SUNSET.
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This is the part of the day where the catering & venue will have a big impact on the flow of the day. Depending if you're doing a sit down or cocktail style reception, formalities will flow a little different. However here are a few tips.
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MC - A good MC will do a great job in keeping things on track and control the room when need be. Don't over look the importance of a professional MC. Guest MC's just need to know they have a job role and will be the main point of contact between the couple and all the vendors.
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Once you have the attention of the guests use it. A good example would be grouping formalities together. The reason for this is if you take a quick '5min break' you'll spend the next 20mins getting guests back to their seats from the bathrooms, outside, smoking area etc. Let your guests MC know this trick to keep things on track. For example Going from bouquet toss, into parents dance, into first dance, into open dance floor is using this mentality.
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Example:
Entrees
Speeches (Parents)
Mains
TIP: CHECK WITH CATERS HOW LONG DELIVER & CLEAR WOULD TAKE.
Speeches (Bridal Party, Couple) + cake cutting
Desert
First dance + parents dance + open dance floor.
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Copy & Paste Version:
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12 - 1pm PREP LOCATION 1 (address TBC)
15min travel time e.g
1:15pm - 2:15pm PREP LOCATION 2 (address TBC)
15min Travel time e.g
2:30pm Ceremony Setup (address TBC)
3pm - 3:30pm Ceremony.
3:30 - 4:45pm Congrats, Family photos
4:45 - 6pm Bridal Party & Couple photos
6:15pm Entrance​ (venue address)
6:25pm Entrees
6:45pm speeches (Parents)
7:15pm Mains
8pm Speeches (Bridal Party, Couple) + cake cutting
8:15pm Desert
8:45 First dance + parents dance + open dance floor.
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BONUS SUPPLIERS
12.1 Boutique Online Stores
​Use 'BVF' code for 15% off
12.2 Cake
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12.3 Dress Suppliers
Moon & Pearl Bridal
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12.4 Caters
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12.5 Bar Tenders
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12.6 Jewellery
CONCLUSION
11.1 Wrapping Up Your Wedding Journey
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We hope this guide has been a valuable resource in navigating the choices and decisions that come with creating your dream wedding. The world of wedding planning is filled with countless talented suppliers, each with their own unique offerings. We trust that the tips and insights provided have helped you narrow down your selection, whether it be choosing the perfect venue, stylist, planner, hair stylist, makeup artist, musicians, photographer, florist, or celebrant.
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As your wedding day approaches, remember to take a deep breath and savour every moment.
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11.2 Have the Best day!
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All the meticulous planning and thoughtful considerations have led you to this momentous occasion. You are in the capable hands of dedicated vendors who will guide you, support you, and ensure that your day unfolds seamlessly.
From the venue setting the perfect tone to the musicians setting the mood, the photo/film team capturing every cherished moment, and the celebrant officiating your love, you are surrounded by a team of professionals who are committed to making your wedding day truly extraordinary.
So, as you exchange vows, share laughter, and create lasting memories, trust in the process, embrace the joy, and know that your love story is being captured and celebrated in the most exquisite way possible. Here's to a wedding day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments, and to a future filled with happiness and beautiful memories.
