How NOT to ruin your wedding photos

Your wedding photos will be one of the most important mementos from your wedding day. The day will go by so quickly, and you'll be having so much fun that you'll need good, quality photos to refresh your memory of what a fabulous day you had!

Choosing a Photographer is a tough decision. I always tell my clients to go with who they feel most comfortable with and who's style they prefer. Do not try to cheap out on your photos. This doesn't mean you have to spend $5,000+, but it surely means you shouldn't be spending less than $500 or asking a friend to do it for free. I saw a fabulous and oh-so-true quote the other day; "If you think it's expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur." This quote is bang on - let the professionals take care of you on your wedding day. We have many reasons to call ourselves such.

You've hired a professional and you know they will deliver, but what can you do to make sure that you don't ruin your photos?

Here are some tips on how NOT to ruin your wedding photos:

Create a wish list

Work with your Photographer via email or a face-to-face meeting to discuss the kind of photos you want. Most times you've selected them because of their style, poses, layouts, etc - but if there is a certain pose or location you want, be sure to tell them!
Some popular shots on a wish list are; gown on hanger in window, picture with grandparents, photo of rings/invitation and your something old/new/borrowed and blue.

Have your Photographer stay 

To save money some couples will send the Photographer home after the receiving line or just before dinner. This is a mistake if you want to capture emotions from you, your groom, wedding party, family and guests during dinner, speeches and when the party starts. They don't need to stay all night if money is tight, but have them stay at least until you've cut the cake and had your first dance.

Book in advance

Photographers and Coordinators are two of the first vendors to get booked early. We advise you to do your research and book with your selected Photographer at least 12-14 months in advance. Some times you can get away with as little as 9 months, but don't be surprised if our #1 choice is booked already.

Schedule enough time

Chat with your Photographer and your Day of Coordinator about how much time is needed for your photo shoot. We will be realistic with you and factor in travel time, set-up, people management and weather (sunlight, etc). You want to make sure you have enough time to be relaxed and having fun, but not too much time that your guests awaiting your arrival back are bored.

Feed your vendors

Vendors that get fed are happy vendors, and happy vendors will work better than hungry ones. If you have vendors working over your dinner hour (Photographers, Coordinator, DJ, etc) we highly recommend that you have a vendor table for them and feed them dinner as well. Your wedding day is a long one although it seems to go by so quickly and most of your vendors will be working well before you start to get ready and long after you've gone home.

Look fresh

On your wedding day you will look so radiant and happy because it's your wedding day, but do yourself a favour and eat and sleep well the day before. Same goes for your wedding day, stay hydrated, eat throughout the day and don't get intoxicated.

Have fun

Stuffy photos are a thing of the past. Sure, you'll have the traditional family and wedding party shots, but make sure you're having fun, laughing and enjoying yourself. Don't worry about the small things - this is your Day of Coordinators job. A smiling Bride looks best from all angles.


*Photo by JClay Photography from Helen & Jason's big day

Save 10% on Day Of Coordination!

Time is running out to save 10% on Day of Coordination services! Book your 2013 wedding before March 1st to save and stress less on your wedding day.

The awesome wedding party for Brooke & Richard's wedding, Sept 2012

It's extremely reassuring to know that a trusted professional has your best interests in mind and will go above and beyond to execute your plans and fine details. This service is our most popular and allows for the Bride and Groom to enjoy their wedding day to the fullest. 

Services include, but not limited to:

• A complimentary coffee & chat to discuss your wedding day requirements
• An hour long meeting to finalize all details, logistics and plans for your wedding
• Continuous support via phone or email 2 months prior to your big day
• Timeline preparation & execution
• Rehearsal coordination
• Wedding party & family management
• Vendor coordination
• Use of our wedding day emergency kit
• Wedding Day Management (set-up, ceremony coordination, photos & reception)

Day of Coordination provides approximately 35 hours of service, with 8-12 hours being executed on your wedding day. 

Send us an email or give us a call to book a coffee and chat meeting to discuss your plans and how we can work together on your special day.


The Bride's Butler
info@bridesbutler.ca
905-516-9060

Tick tock...don't watch the clock!

When I meet with clients for Day of Coordination meetings to discuss all of the plans, logistics and requirements for their wedding day, I always tell them there's no such thing as too much information. I want to know every single detail, your vision for the day and the timing of the event. It's always best for your Coordinator to have more information than not enough. Part of DOC services includes assistance with formulating your wedding day timeline. This is the document I will use the most that day and it helps me stay organized while executing the wedding. It tells me when items/services are being delivered or dropped off, when vendors are starting/finishing, how long dinner will be and so on. I'm a big believer that the vendors and myself should be the only ones that have this timeline. We're the ones making the magic happen, so we need to work together in a timely manner to ensure that the wedding goes off without a hitch!

What I'm not a fan of is this:

The only times your guests need to be aware of is your ceremony start time, cocktail hour and when dinner is to be served. All other things like photos, cake cutting, bouquet toss, first dance, etc are not necessary. Things will change throughout your big day - this is a guarantee. Anytime you are executing a large event with lot's of people the timing will not be exact. This is my job to concern myself with - not yours or your 100+ guests. Remember, 'what they don't know, won't hurt them'. I'll make sure to give you heads up when it's time for your speech, to cut the cake, have your first dance and toss your bouquet.

So my advice, leave the timeline with me and let everyone else, including you and your Groom enjoy the day.

Lights, camera, action!

I'm so excited to be the Day of Coordinator for Lizzie & John's big day in February! They've planned a movie themed wedding and I can't wait to hear all of their fine details when we have our final meeting in a few weeks.

I was connected with Lizzie through Twitter (man, I love Twitter) when looking for bartenders for an August 2012 couple. Lizzie & John were on hand for Mary-Anne and Anthony's wedding and they were fantastic! They are such a cute pair - they are they type of  kind, genuine people that go above and beyond for others. Since the August wedding, they've also provided bar services for a Holiday Party I coordinated for my full-time gig at Mabel's Labels. Simply put, I adore these two and am so looking forward to assisting them on their most special day!

Photos captured by Lindsay Taylor Photography

Don't miss out!

Did you know that planning and hosting a wedding is the 2nd most stressful life event? Ranking right up there with the loss of a loved one is what's supposed to be the happiest day of your life. Doesn't make much sense, does it?

We're offering 30% off Day of Coordination services for 2013 weddings booked before November 30th, 2012. Having a dedicated Coordinator on site for your wedding will help reduce the amount of stress you and your hubby to be might be feeling.

Finishing off the evening with a photo
with newlyweds Brooke & Richard.

Here's what you'll get with DOC services:

• A complimentary coffee & chat to discuss your wedding day requirements
• An hour long meeting to finalize all details, logistics and plans for your wedding
• Continuous support via phone or email 2 months prior to your big day
• Timeline preparation & execution
• Rehearsal coordination
• Wedding party & family management
• Vendor coordination
• Use of our wedding day emergency kit
• Wedding Day Management (set-up, ceremony coordination, photos & reception)

Day of Coordination provides approximately 30 hours of service, with 8-12 hours being executed on your wedding day. 

Other than your DJ & Photographer, no other vendor will spend that many hours with you on your wedding day. We are there the whole day to ensure that all of your hard work planning pays off.

Don't miss out! Call or email us today to set up a date for the complimentary chat!


* Photo by Unveil Photography

Paying for an intangible service

Okay, I've got to give a little talk here - no soap box, no mega phone - just me hoping to shed light on my perspective, why we charge what we do for our services and how Day of Coordination isn't a tangible service, but is well worth placing it in your list of vendors to hire for your wedding day.

When potential clients contact me, it’s typically because they've:

a) been referred from pleased past clients

b)  heard good things about me through the grapevine

or

c) searched online and found that I come up on top for "Hamilton Wedding Planner (or Coordinator)"

Once I get an inquiry, I get back to them with details about Day of Coordination, the length of time required to execute the services and the fee. Brides that know the value in having a certified professional on site to execute their details will reply back fairly promptly and take up my offer to meet to see if we’re a good fit. Most of my Brides are organized, detail oriented and your typical Type A personalities – and I love them for it! They know what they want, and they know how to get it – by hiring a Coordinator to do all of the tasks they can’t on their wedding day. But then there are the Brides that want to have a Coordinator, but don't want to pay for our quality services. This bothers me.

On location during the photo shoot for
newlyweds Brooke & Richard.

Day of Coordination services are typically 35-40 hours of service, with 12, sometimes 14 of those hours being executed on your wedding day. Other than your DJ and Photographer, who else works for you that long on your wedding day? Brides will pay more for their flowers and cake than they will for our services – so this is where my tangible and intangible piece comes into play.

You'll pay big bucks for a DJ, and for your investment you will hear the tunes pumpin’ all night.
You’ll pay more than enough for your cake, which will be dropped off, displayed and likely not eaten.
You’ll pay hundreds, sometimes thousands for your flowers, which yes, are beautiful - but at the end of the night end up thrown out, or given to guests during the famous centrepiece giveaway.



So, when I inform Brides about my fee and they want to negotiate or flat out say I'm too expensive, I think this (and maybe I should start saying this too)....

Our services are not tangible like those mentioned above. You can't touch, eat or smell what we do – but we're there working for you the whole time. We’re the ones that keep you calm and organized, and keep your wedding party and guests on time for key events. We’re the ones that pick up garbage from photo shoot locations, and make sure the washrooms are always clean and stocked. We fix your hair, veil and dress. We set-up your details, and take them down. We coordinate timing and services with all of your vendors, and make sure they're providing the services you're paying for. We coordinate your rehearsal, ceremony, photo shoot and reception. We communicate with your DJ and MC to make sure the speeches occur on time and in order. We work together with the catering staff to ensure dinner is served promptly and correctly. We wear many hats during the execution of the services, and we are always working. We trouble shoot, solve issues and above all, do all that we can to give you a memorable event.

So, do you see the value in having a Day of Coordinator? Check out our Applause page for what some of our past clients have to say. An experienced Day of Coordinator is worth the cost, and worth adding to your list of vendors to make your day magical.

I guess in the end, you can consider our tangible item to be the amount of stress we take away from you and your future hubby. Now, I think that's better than any song, slice of cake or flower.

* Image taken by Unveil Photography

The big 3-0!

Yesterday was my 30th (Eeek!) Birthday, and to celebrate I want to extend an offer of 30% off Day of Coordination to 2013 Brides. The last time I had a promotion this large was to commemorate the marriage of Prince William to Kate Middleton. So needless to say, you won't see savings like this come around too often!

My 30th birthday celebration with my closest gal pals.

Weddings are a celebration with friends and family, so be the guest of honour and not the host. Leave the set-up, event logistics, schedule management and all those other finicky details to us!

With Day of Coordination you plan your entire wedding, source and choose your own vendors and personalize your big day however you see fit, but you have the security of knowing that all of your hard work and plans will be executed and come to life by a dedicated professional.




Brides that hire a Day of Coordinator are less stressed, more organized and are able to enjoy their day as they should - as a Bride who needs not to take charge, make decisions or even problem solve.

Book before November 30th to save 30% on our most popular service to not only stress less, but save some of your wedding budget!

*Services are regularly $900, making your total only $630 with the discount!
* Valid for 2013 weddings only in the Greater Hamilton Area. Travel fees apply for Toronto weddings.
* Must be booked before November 30th, 2012.

Save the date for 2013

Most clients book Day of Coordination services with us 9-12 months in advance. If you're getting married in 2013, we suggest you save the date now! Having a professional and certified Coordinator on hand to execute your vision and ensure your vendors are providing the services agreed upon helps you to enjoy your day as a Bride, and not a Bridezilla. Stress brings out the worst in people, and you don't deserve to feel overwhelmed on the most important day of your life.

Our Day of Coordination package is 30+ hours of support and services. We provide you with documents to keep you organized, are with you for up to 12 hours on your wedding day and offer vendor recomendations and etiquette advice. We'll be your go-to gals for any issues that arise, any questions you might have and any mishaps that might occur. Weddings are a grand event, and you just simply can't coordinate all of the logistics yourself. Plus, you surely don't want to burden your family members or wedding party with the fine details and tasks either - they should be able to enjoy your special day right along with you.

Send us an email, give us a shout or even tweet us to set up a complimentary meeting so we can discuss how you can stress less on your wedding day with our popular Day of Coordination services.

* Picture from Backwards Life

Managing Expectations

Let's consider this post a little pep talk....or free advice per say.

Your Day of Coordinator can only be as organized as you are. Plain and simple.
It's our job on your wedding day to assist with tasks that you are physically unable to do yourself. For example; set up your reception area with your centrepieces, favours, escort cards, etc. Not only do we do the so-called 'grunt' work for you, but we also do our best to keep every one and every thing on time.


It's our job to reduce your workload and amount of stress. Now, let me reinstate what I've already said...we can only be as organized as you are. We'll provide you with useful documents like a timeline and vendor information sheets to guide you, but ultimately if you're not organized, we won't be either.


The best weddings we've executed Day of Coordination services for are the ones that the Bride has checklists, pictures and instructions for set-up and decor, labeled containers/boxes with all the little details and copies of all vendor contracts. With these items we are able to bring your vision to life, without them we're walking into your event blind.


Upon booking Day of Coordination with The Bride's Butler, we give you tools to help you be organized, and we offer continuous support via email or phone two months prior to your big day. Use this time to ask any last minute questions, air your concerns about a specific vendor and fill us in on family or guest drama (cause no matter what, there's always a little of that). When we meet for our final meeting prior to your big day, typically 1 week before, have all your information ready. We'll remind you of what items we'll need just so you don't feel overwhelmed or lost. Having a floor plan and all of your check lists handy for this final meeting helps us in getting your big picture plan.


I always tell my clients, there is no such thing as too much information. Saturate us with it - I want to be able to see the dream wedding you've been planning these past 12-18 months in my mind.


Day of Coordination services are for the Bride that plans her own wedding, chooses and secures her own vendors, and   knows what she wants. This package is perfect for Brides that want to be able to step away from delegation and the so-called Bridezilla role and simply enjoy her day with her new hubby, friends and family.


Having a Day of Coordinator on site is something you won't regret, when done right. Ask any vendor who's worked with us, or previous clients and they'll agree. If you're organized, you'll get the wedding you always wanted.


Happy planning!

20% Off = less money & less stress

Save 20% on our popular Day of Coordination services for your September, October or November wedding if you book before July 31/12.

Fall is the season that more and more Brides are choosing to say “I do.” We want you to be able to save money and stress less on your most special day.

Typically, clients will book Day of Coordination services 6-12 months prior to their wedding, but if you’ve been thinking that you can handle everything on your own up until now, then that’s okay!

We have a few Fall dates still available, so book now and save!

As your Day of Coordinator, we’re there to work for you, to make sure that your plans are executed as envisioned and that you are able to enjoy your day as a Bride and not as a Bridezilla. LOL!

We’ll meet twice prior to your wedding, chat on the phone and send many emails back and forth – all preparing you and your vendors for a spectacular day!

Let us manage your wedding party, guests and vendors. Let us set-up your décor details like your gift table, candy buffet, escort cards and centrepieces.  And let us communicate with your vendors to make sure that the services they are providing match with what you ordered.

We don’t offer a discount this large often, so do yourself a favour and hire a vendor that will work for you, have your back and make sure that you get the wedding you’ve been working so hard to plan!

Paying in full may cost you

One of the best things you can do is book a vendor that was recommended from your Coordinator or a family/friend. Positive referrals are fabulous for a vendor, and for a Bride, is one of the best ways to reduce stress.

Recently I've heard from two of my summer Brides (Day of Coordination services) that they're working with vendors (both florists) that are asking or had asked for payment in full. I strongly recommend that you DO NOT pay upfront. I understand that some vendors like florists, invitation specialists and bakers need to purchase items prior to your wedding day to fulfill your purchase, however, I believe that this should be something that they factor into their business model and how they conduct their services.

Most vendors, like myself, require a deposit to secure the services and date. The deposit is usually non-refundable and is likely 50% of the total. If this is the case, you should pay the remaining 50% on the day of your wedding. Remember, you have not bought a gift card that you pay upfront for to use at a later date - you have reserved (via a deposit) services that are to be executed on your wedding day, therefor the vendor should be paid then.

Oftentimes if the total cost of the services is quite large, i.e: over $2,000 there may be a 2nd payment due prior to your wedding (25%). This payment shows your commitment to the contract, and their promise to fulfill. This 2nd payment not only reduces balance yet to be paid, but helps pay for any work, communication and time the vendor has put forth to date.

When you have a Day of Coordinator working with you on our wedding day, it's best to give them the remaining balances to give to the vendors when they show up and or deliver your order. It's always best to pay the florist once the centrepieces are placed and the bouquets are delivered. It's always best to pay the baker once the cake has been delivered and set up on the cake table as stated in the contract. It's always best to pay the DJ once they have arrived, set-up and conducted a sound check. A contract is a legally binding document, but if the services executed or delivered are not the same noted, then you have reason to request a refund or a change in the total price.

Most vendors should not have a problem with being paid the remaining balance upon arrival. If they do, perhaps that should be a sign that you look elsewhere. When meeting with a vendor for the first time, discuss their payment method and timeline. Do they only accept cash or cheque? Can you pay your deposit using credit or debit and then give the remainder in cash? Do they want it all upfront, or in 2 to 3 amounts?

No one wants to pay in full and then not get the services or product they paid for. So, my advice to you is, wait to pay on the day of if you can. If you do pay upfront, get everything in writing, hang on to your email communications and be sure to review the contract in length prior to signing off and handing over funds.

A good vendor will work with and for you - not against you.

For our Day of Coordination services, we are more than happy to provide our clients with a few vendor referrals. Nothing makes us happier than to work with other industry professionals that we know, trust and have faith in.

Family Matters

As your Day of Coordinator, it is my duty and responsibility to make sure that your plans and ideas for your wedding are brought to life. It's my job to make sure that the timeline that we agreed upon together is followed to the best of our abilities. It is me who will communicate updates and changes on your behalf with your vendors such as your DJ, Photographer, Venue Coordinator and Florist. I'm the middle man between you and well, pretty much everyone else....including your family members.

If you have an over-bearing parent, or an Aunt/Uncle/Wedding Party Member that has to have their say, please do us all a favour and inform them about me prior to your wedding day. You should tell your immediate family and wedding party that you've hired a Day of Coordinator so that your wedding goes smoothly and on time. To be realistic, things will change, the timeline will become a guideline, but in the end, that's my worry - not yours, or your parents.

I understand that parents and family members want the best for you for your special day, but assure them that we've discussed your wedding in length and that everything is taken care of. Tell your family and wedding party that you want them to enjoy the day as well, and that if they have a suggestion or concern that they should see your Coordinator. It's our job to be quick thinkers, problem solvers, negotiators and mediators.

If you have someone that you think will interfere on your wedding day, it is definitely a good idea to hire a Day of Coordinator. Let us be the bad guy, so that you can be the blushing Bride and simply enjoy your wedding day with your husband.




** We are currently offering $200 off remaining dates in April, May & June for Day of Coordination **

Looking back on Leigh & Derek's Day

Leigh & Derek got married on November 5th in Ancaster. We were with them for Day of Coordination services to make sure that all of their details and visions came to life.

Leigh was a very organized Bride that had a lot of personal touches and details. From the handmade aisle runner to her colour coordinated shoe laces and to their very own wedding 'logo' of two cats with their tails entwined; she had it all figured out and planned. I love when my Brides ( & Grooms) know exactly what they want!

Here are some pictures from the talented team at Red Lotus Photography of L & D's special day!

Thank you Leigh, Derek and their families for inviting us to be a part of your special day and to bring your wedding plans to life! We wish you much love as you begin this new chapter in life together.

Congratulations Jenn & Stephen!

Jenn & Stephen got married in October and now that we've received some pictures from the wonderful Taralea at Eyecontact Photography, we wanted to share a small recap of their special day with you!

Jenn & Stephen were married at The Scottish Rite in Hamilton by Dan from Kettle Creek Weddings. The ceremony was beautiful and everyone was happy to see these two say "I do."

The reception was held at The Hamilton Convention Centre and as you can see their colours were black, white and red. Jennifer was very organized (as mentioned in this post) and these newlyweds enjoyed their day with friends and family.

We had a great time assisting them with our Day of Coordination services and wish them nothing but the best as Husband and Wife.

Congrats again!

Saturday's Soiree

This past Saturday I had the pleasure of assisting Kelly & Mike with their wedding.

Kelly had contacted me in December when we were offering $100 off Day of Coordination Services.

Kelly is the type of Bride that wanted a Planner onsite so that she didn’t have to worry about managing her bridal party, family and friends. She also didn’t want to worry about logistics like décor set-up and the very important timeline. Kelly works for an insurance company, so everyday in her career she’s looking after others, so she wanted to make sure that her day was all about her and Mike…and it was!

Congrats to Kelly & Mike for planning and hosting a fabulous wedding! The colour scheme was black, white and champagne with traces of damask and lace. Kelly & Mike had their reception at The Burlington Convention Centre – the staff there is fabulous and the food was well served and very tasty! The wedding cake was stunning and Kelly even surprised Mike with a Groom’s cake (hot new trend alert!!) because of his love of soccer. The weather was beautiful and there were only a few minor issues that arose throughout the day- which is bound to happen, it’s all part of executing a major event. Thankfully, Samantha my Assistant for the day and myself were ready for almost anything.

What are some things we helped make better and less stressful for Kelly & Mike?

- held onto the rings until the ceremony
- pinned boutonnières on the lapels of all bridal party members
- distributed payment for the musicians at the ceremony
- provided a forgetful bridesmaid with her bouquet at photo shoot
- photocopied vehicle permit for photo location for limo
- managed set-up at reception venue (decorator and serving staff)

- placed favours on all place settings

- alphabetized name cards
- set up guest book, money box, etc
- set up cake table & Groom’s cake table

- organized bridal party for main entrance

- coordinated with DJ for sound and lighting

- made sure Bride’s requested brand of wine was being served

- quickly put a halt to the sound of the speech from the next hall coming through our banquet speakers

And so on and so on……

Brides – things will happen on your wedding day that you didn’t expect or plan for. Having a Planner onsite can help these types of issues disappear quickly and effortlessly on your part. Your task for the day is to be the Bride and enjoy every moment with your husband.

The Bride’s Butler wishes Kelly & Mike all the best in their new beginning together. Thanks again for allowing us to be a part of your very special day.

Congratulations Kelly & Mike!!

I couldn't post my usual '5 day' blog post yesterday because I was executing Day of Coordination services for my client Kelly. She and her hubby Mike had a fabulous sunny day for their wedding and were surrounded by many friends and family wishing them much love and happiness.

Here's a sneak peak from their exquisite wedding.
I'll write more about their event next post.

10 Secrets to a fun Reception

10 Secrets to a fun Reception....

titles originally thought by the Knot...the other added fuss is by us.

10. Plan a Surprise - Unexpected entertainment such as dancers or a magician. Or by adding theme friendly add-ons like a cigar roller, photo booth or dove release.

9. Keep Your Guests Fuelled - As the party continues and drinks are consumed you'll want to make sure there is some late night food available. Check out our post about unique treats here.

8. Give Out Party Favours - Just like you would for a child's birthday party, give your guests something fun to play with! Party hats, crowns and tiaras, noise makers, sunglasses or even have a sparkler send-off as you leave as Mr. & Mrs.

7. Add a Lounge to your Reception - Give guests a spot to relax and kick up their heels before and during your reception. This set up is very popular for cocktail receptions and tent weddings.

6. Make sure you and your DJ have the same tastes - No one wants to hear DJ Jazzy Jeff spinning' tunes from Barney's sing-a-long, or the hokie pokie!

5. If you've hired a Band, plan their breaks - You don't want your party to be at its peak then stop because the band leader has to go pee now do you? See if the band members can take breaks in shifts allowing for songs to be played sans that member, or at least have them play up tempo filler music to keep the party going.

4. Have a Game Plan for Kids - If you have kids at your wedding be sure there are things for them to do at a separate table or even a separate room (with a chaperone), like colouring books, playdoh, puzzles and even handheld video games.

3. Keep the Toasts short - "Quality over quantity." "Short and sweet." "Less is more."
These are popular sayings for a reason people.

2. Order Good Food - Get creative.

There are tons of options now other than your standard chicken, beef or pasta. Talk with your caterer or Banquet manager and see what they can produce for you that would be different and unique. If you want to stick to the classic meat and potato - try having a baked potato bar and or a meat carving station. Be different. I dare ya!

And the #1 Secret to a fun Reception is.....

Hire A Day of Coordinator - Having a Wedding Planner on site for your wedding is one of the smartest decisions you'll make in regards to making your Reception stress free, seamless and fun!

After all, you've thought about all aspects of your wedding in fine detail including the top 9 secrets, right?

So, make sure that your wedding goes as planned and put your trust in a dedicated professional that wants you to have the day you always dreamed of.