YOUR WEDDING
GUIDE
our selection of handy
hints and tips to help you
plan your wedding
Triple R Luxury Car Hire Presents
We understand how stressful planning a wedding can be. In this booklet, you will find expert
information and handy hints to help guide you through your planning and research. From
budgets to speeches, we hope you find this information helpful in planning your special day.
Etiquette
Planning a wedding whilst navigating your way through the map of modern manners can be tricky. When it comes to this moral mine-field, do a little research and don't be afraid to ask questions. The more prepared you are for those sticky questions and concerns the less stressful the planning process will be.
Invitations
Your wedding invitations are one of most important planning elements, giving your guests the first glimpse of what's to come. For a little wow factor think outside the box and ensure you give your guests plenty of notice, especially for those required to travel interstate or internationally.
The Dress
Given the all importance of 'The Dress' it's important to allowplenty of time to find 'the one', depending on your gown it can take up to 12 months for your dream gown to come to life.
Get Wedding Ready
It's important on your wedding day you look and feel your best. Be sure to research and book a bridal makeup and hair stylist well in advance that will create the look that suits you and your bridesmaids.
Cake
Whether you opt for something traditional or modern, large scale or small, choose something that will wow guests anyway you slice it.
Theme
For a wedding to remember for all the right reasons, ensure your day is a true reflection of you as a couple. Whether you opt for a full-fledged theme, or a few subtle details incorporating some sort of style guide will make the planning process a whole lot easier. Creating a scrapbook full of magazine articles and inspiration is a great way to shape your theme.
Pinterest is a great resource for this. www.pinterest.com
Flowers
Fresh flowers are the perfect accent for any occasion. Whether you opt for an opulent bunch or a singular bloom, flowers work as ideal accessories and or decorations. Talk to a professional florist about what blooms will work best for you, with consideration to style and season
Wedding Favours
Thank your guests for celebrating your special day with some unique favours / bonbonniere. Do your research and opt for something that is truly 'you', capturing the memory of the day.
Honeymoon
Don't get so caught up in the wedding planning process that you forget about the honeymoon! Your options are endless so get the inspiration flowing early and start planning your post-wedding festivities like a pro.
THE TIPS AND EXPERT TRICKS FOR PLANNING
THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS
Your big day Cheat Sheet
STAY ORGANISED
Whilst this one may sound like a no-brainer, it's easy for those pre-planning months to slip right under your nose. Putting together a comprehen-sive to-do list is the simplest way to ensure you stay on top of things, and those deadlines, due dates and payment plans are all kept in order. And don't be afraid to delegate! Friends and family are free and often happy to help, so don't be afraid to ask for a little assistance where you need it.
STAY TRUE TO YOU
Don't get caught up in a web of obligations and expectations. Your wedding day is a reflection of you and your fiance, which should be represent-ed in everything, from the dress and location to the invitations and entertainment.
DON'T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF
When organising any kind of momentous occasion there are certain things that may not go to plan, but are unfortunately sometimes unavoidable. So when you find out that the forecast for your wedding day is overcast with showers, or your dream location isn't available on your chosen date remember to 'keep calm and carry on'.
SMILE
Remember your smile is your best accessory. So, don't worry if you spill a little wine on your gown, your flower girl has a tantrum or your sister has a little too much to drink, your wedding day should be one of the happiest days of your life and a beaming smile is the best way to show it. Show us those pearly whites!
DON'T FORGET WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT
You are marrying the man of your dreams in front of every-one you love. Your wedding day is every-one day out of the rest of your life and the best is yet to come. So even if everything doesn't go exactly how you planned, remember why you're there in the first place.
your PERFECT day
MAKE YOUR DAY UNFORGETTABLE - IN THE BEST WAY
F OL LO W T H E S E F I V E T I P S TO E N S U R E A W E DDI NG DAY T H AT
I S NOT H I NG S HORT OF PE R F E C T ION
.
Image Credit- Studio 477 Photographics
Budget
Knowing your budget will be the most important deciding factor. The size of your budget and what kind of wedding you desire will ultimately determine the length of your guest list. Estimate the wedding costs with 'per guest' expenses including items such as catering.
Divide & Conquer
Get started by making a list of 'must haves', the people you couldn't imagine your day without. Divide the remainder of the list into categories, for example:
• Bride's guests • Groom's guests • Mutual friends
• Bride's parents guests • Groom's parents guests
It may be helpful to give each group or category a limit. For example, one third to you and your partner and one third to each of your parents. Combining your lists will allow you to determine how far off the mark you are.
Making the Cut
Now comes the hard part. Consistency is the vital component when it comes to narrowing down your guest list. For example opting for an intimate wedding or a family only affair is a good tactic to avoid people being offended. To reduce numbers, consider eliminating entire groups, such as work colleagues, plus-ones or children. Limit guests you haven't seen in more than a year. Establishing consistency such as this will help you achieve a guest list both affordable and manageable.
Tips
• Consider the logistics. Your venue location will ultimately determine your guest list. For example if your reception venue only allows 100 occupants, that will determine your maximum guest number, similarly if you're having a backyard wedding its unlikely you'll have the room to accommodate 100 people.
• Compile a 'reserve list this way if any of your primary guests are unable to attend you may wish to fill their place with someone else you couldn't initially afford to invite.
• Work together when compiling the guest list and remember to be considerate of your parent's wishes, especially if they're footing the bill!
•Remember, you can't please everyone!
Cordially Invited
Making a guest list without offending anyone may seem a near impossible task. It can
quickly turn into a battlefield of obligations and expectations.Your guest list will impact
numerous big day factors including venue catering and decorations, so the sooner you get
started the better. Here are a few tips to help guide you through this moral mine-field.
COMPILING YOUR GUEST LIST IS LIKELY TO BE THE HARDEST PART
OF YOUR WEDDING PLANNING, BUT ALSO THE MOST IMPORTANT.
WE'VE DEVISED A FEW HELPFUL HINTS TO GET YOU STARTED
Establishing your wedding budget is the
most imperative aspect of your big day
planning. Whether you're planning a royal
worthy affair or an intimate gathering of a
few, the following factors will have you well
on the way to making all your big day
dreams come true.
WHO'S FOOTING THE BILL?
Establish early on who will share the expenses. In days gone by it was the bride's father that traditionally covered all big .day expenses, but this is often no longer the case. These days the groom's family may also wish to make a contribution, and in some cases the bride and groom will cover costs themselves. There are no hard and fasts rules, but what is import-ant is to be up front and honest and all parties involved are comfortable with their contribution.
THE NUMBER CRUNCHING
When it comes to financing your wedding it's import-ant to prioritize what elements are most importimport-ant to you. Whether it's fine wine, a gourmet menu or a certain location, knowing what you want most out of your day will help to determine what elements you can skimp on cost or go without and set your expectations and budget accordingly.
SAVING STRATEGIES
If you're footing the bill yourselves, it's time to save! save! save! Setting aside approximately 20 percent of your monthly income is sure to keep things on track, though the longer your engagement, the more time you'll have to save.
More Budget savvy tips:
•Wedding cup cakes are becoming increasingly popular and are easy to make yourself.
•Ask for help from friends and family, they come free and often happy to assist!
•Choose flowers that are in season, if you've got a green thumb or creative flare grow or arrange them yourself. •Instead of a band opt for a DJ, they are almost always more affordable
BIG DAY BUDGET BREAKDOWN
This is a general budget guide. Amounts will vary from couple to couple, depending on their priorities and individ-ual tastes.
•Reception (food, beverages, rentals, site): 40% - 50% •Bride's & Groom's Attire: 5% - 10%
•Photography & Videography: 10% •Flowers: 10%
•Entertainment / Music: 5% - 10% •Planner/ Coordinator: 10% - 15%
•Miscellaneous (invitations, fees, transportation etc): 10%
budget breakdown
Image Credit- Dezine by Mauro
FIGURING OUT YOUR BIG DAY BUDGET CAN BE A
STRESSFUL TASK. WE'VE DEVISED SOME HELPFUL
Who to choose?
Bridal parties can range anywhere from a singular attendant to more than a dozen members. Considering the formality of your wedding day, as well as the size, is a good starting point. Whilst there is no tried formula, it is thought a large wedding party is suited to a large, formal affair, whilst it smaller, more intimate celebration is best complimented with a smaller bridal party. When making your selections keep in mind; more isn't always merrier. In the event of you having previously served in someone’s bridal party, remember there is no obligation to return the gesture should it not be right for you.
Obligations to Consider
Whilst is it common for members of the Bridal Party to be assigned with planning responsibilities, financial responsibili-ties may also need to be considered. Be transparent about your expectations from the beginning, and be understanding should one of your nominees is unable to assist financially.
Maid/Matron of Honour
•Provides moral and emotional support to the bride •Helps with the decision-making, shopping, invitations, etc •Helps the bride get ready in the morning
•Arranges bride's dress during ceremony and reception •Organises the bridal shower
Bridesmaids
•Performs any assigned tasks
•Helps the bride with her dress and makeup •Assists Maid of Honor however they can
Best Man
•Transports the rings to the ceremony •Accompanies the groom to the ceremony •Commandeers the getaway vehicle •Ensures the smooth running of the day
•Provides moral and emotional support to the groom •Escorts the maid of honour
•Toasts the bride and groom with a funny & witty speech •Organises the bachelor party
Roles in the Bridal Party
Groomsmen
•Partner a bridesmaid throughout the reception •Be present for all photography
•Support the Best Man in his duties •Support the Groom
Ushers
•Seat guests on the appropriate sides during the ceremony
•Distribute programmes as guests arrive •Usher guests to sign the guest book •Check for items left behind
The flower girl
•Walks ahead of the maid of honour •Usually sprinkles petals along the aisle
The pageboy
•Carries it pillow with the rings attached
•Walks down the aisle with or after the flower girl
Bridal party Checklist
THEY'RE YOUR WEDDING DAY FRONT LINE.
HERE'S OUR CRASH COURSE FOR CREATING THE PERFECT BRIDAL PARTY.
Choosing your
Wedding Transport
WANT TO MAKE PLANNING YOUR WEDDING TRANSPORT A HASSLE FREE PROCESS?
HERE ARE OUR TOP TIPS FOR BOOKING YOUR WEDDING TRANSPORT SO YOU
ARE PREPARED WITH THE RIGHT INFORMATION AND QUESTIONS TO ASK.
Planning early to avoid disappointment
At Triple R, our goal is to help you create the wedding of your dreams. Once you have secured the date for your special day, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your luxury car needs. The earlier you make an appoint-ment, the more likely you will be able to secure the vehicle which will fit seamlessly into your wedding theme, as well as comfortably cater for all who need transport on the day. Plan early to avoid disappointment - During peak wedding periods throughout Spring, Summer, and Autumn, car availability may be limited due to greater client demand.
Traveling in comfort and luxury on your special day
To ensure that appropriate cars are arranged it is important to consider: • Will both the bride and groom need transport to the ceremony? • Do you require vehicles for the bridal party? If so, how many? • Do you require vehicles for the parents’ of the bride and groom? •Will all these people require transport after the wedding ceremony? • Do the bride and groom require transport after the reception to hotel? Time spent planning for this will ensure a stress free day!
Planning your schedule for the day
We encourage you to spend some time considering how your day will unfold. Important factors to plan for include:
• The day of the week, and how traffic flow may be impacted
• Will you require a special permit for entry to photo locations? (melbourne uni, Barracls) • The route you wish to travel and the time it takes to do this.
• Time required by your photographer at the locations you choose. • Alternate locations for your photography should the weather be unkind.
CHURCH CEREMONY
Depending on your religious beliefs a religious ceremony tends to be performed in a place of worship, such as a church or temple. Most faiths are bound by a traditional structure and impose certain rules, it's important to familiarise yourself with these before saying your "I dos". For example some religions allow inter-faith marriages, whilst some don't, others have requirements about the upbringing of children and some insist on pre¬marital counsel-ling. These types of requirements can take months so it's important to consult your relevant clergy member as soon as possible after your engagement.
CIVIL CEREMONY
For couples not bound by religion or who wish to embrace a less traditional approach a civil ceremony is the common choice. Civil ceremonies are not influenced by religious beliefs and can be performed just about anywhere, the only requirement being you publicly exchange vows. You also have the freedom to customise your ceremony from scratch to make it unique and meaningful to you as a couple.
THE REGISTRY OFFICE
Holding your nuptials at the registry office can be as formal or informal as you like. The bride is free to wear a wedding gown and have bridesmaids, and a registry office can hold up to 30 guests. Like most venues Saturday is usually the busiest day, whilst days like Valentine's Day can be booked well in advance. Contact your local Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages for more information.
THE CELEBRANT
Who you choose as your celebrant will be dependent on whether you have religious, civil or inter-faith ceremony. If you're opting for a civil ceremony you'll need to appoint your own celebrant to officiate the marriage. On the other hand if you're planning on a religious ceremony, your officiant may be limited by your choice of venue. It's important whoever you choose you feel comfortable with, each celebrate has a different style and approach so it's important theirs is right for you. Civil celebrants are usually chosen based on recommendation but you can also reference the Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants,
www.civilcelebrants.com.au
VOWS
If you're planning on writing your own vows, it's important you start planning them at least a month in advance. Consider whether you'll write them together or separately, and if it's the latter think about whether you'll share them before hand or whether you'll leave it as a surprise. Upon putting pen to paper reflect on how you fell in love, special moments and memories, what you love about each other and your hopes and promises for the future. If either of you has children you may want to include a vow to honour and love them as well.
Planning your ceremony
YOUR GUIDE TO SAYING "I DO".
Image Credit- David Fowler Photography
1. PERSONALITY
One of the first things to consider is the connection you have with your photographer. You will be spending most of the day with them, so it's essential they make you feel comfortable.
2. ORGANISED AND EFFICIENT
An experienced photographer will have a clear idea of what to do right from the beginning. A simple question-naire about what you want will give the photographer an idea of what you are looking for and ensure the best pictures possible.
3. NO SURPRISES
Confirm the photographer you meet with at your initial consultation will be the person taking your wedding photos. If you don't know who will be working on the day, you won't be able to build the rapport needed and it will show in your photos.
4. FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTABLE
Make sure to talk to potential photographers and see how they respond to odd requests. This will help you decide if they have the talent and creativity to get the look you want.
5. ALLOCATE TIME
Be realistic about the time you spend taking photo-graphs and allocate enough for pre-ceremony and post-ceremony shots.
6. PASSION
If you want something special you need to find an artist that loves photography and will combine skill, talent and heart to capture your special day.
7. RESEARCH
Browse through full wedding albums if possible, not just a gallery of their favourites. Make sure they are capable of creating what you expect at each and every wed-ding. Ask your friends and family for recommendations on who they used for their photos.
8. CONTINGENCY PLANS
Nothing is worse than running out of battery, having faulty equipment or a photographer falling ill on your wedding day. Make sure your photographer is well prepared in case of an emergency.
9. PRICING
Make sure you understand what you are paying for and that the pricing practices are up front, clear and
concise.
10. STYLE AND APPROACH
Consider the photographer's style and approach to capturing a wedding and make sure it matches your taste and personality as a couple.
PICTURE PERFECT
Image Credit- Dezine by Mauro
Image Credit- Eye to Eye Photography
TO MAKE SURE YOUR SPECIAL DAY IS CAPTURED IN THE BEST WAY, CHOOSE A
PROFESSIONAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER THAT MEETS A FEW SIMPLE
REQUIREMENTS. HERE'S OUR TOP 10 PHOTOGRAPHER TIPS
Make the most of a wet situation
Don't forget what your wedding day is all about. It's a time to celebrate the union of two people in love, so don't let the rain dampen your spirits. One can find romance in rain with its ethereal quality. Having created the perfect atmosphere, you can get creative in your photographs by incorporating props such as umbrellas, coats and Paddington boots! Catching moments where your bridesmaids are tiptoeing through water puddles and running for cover can make for a stunning photojournalistic story. In fact your photographer will love the opportunity to show off their creativity and flair when they have a misty rainy day to photograph.
L
ook on the brightside
At least you'll be comforted by the fact that on a rainy day everything remains fresh, from your wedding bouquet and floral arrangements to your makeup. Without the blazing sun to wilt your flowers or ruin your makeup, it's something you can be thankful for.
Go back in time
Start thinking about a date and have a look at the historic weather conditions of years past. It won't give you an accurate account of what will happen on your wedding day, but it can give you a rough estimate of whether or not to bring out your brollies.
Have a Plan B
Always have a wet weather contingency plan just in case the clouds roll in. Apart from having some umbrellas handy, if you are having an outdoor wedding, it's a good idea to have a marquee set up or a back-up location nearby. Be sure to discuss everything with your vendors so that the entire celebration is ready to go mobile.
Have a sense of humour
Rain on your wedding day isn't cause for disaster; in fact, it can mean quite the opposite. In the Hindu tradi-tion it is believed rain forbears a strong marriage, as a wet knot is more difficult to untie. Rain was also a symbol of fertility to agricultural societies, since rain restored and maintained the wellness of crops, crops were peoples main source of stability and income so it was thought to guarantee a long and happy marriage. So should your wedding day be marred by rain, just remember that according to some, it is a sign of good fortune.
DON'T LET A LITTLE BAD WEATHER RAIN ON YOUR PARADE
HERE'S FIVE WAYS TO ENSURE RAIN DOESN'T RUIN YOUR WEDDING DAY
Inclement weather is the type of unruly party guest you can't avoid.When it comes to Mother Nature
versus your wedding day, it's a bout with a clear winner from the get go. Never fear - its not all doom
and gloom. First things first, don't lose your cool. Remain positive and remember that even the greyest
cloud has a silver lining.
Image Credit- Dezine by Mauro
THE RUNNING ORDER
1- Traditionally, the speeches open with father of bride, who often delivers an emotionally charged speech and welcomes the groom into the family by proposing a toast to the couple.
2- The father of the groom speaks next, welcoming the bride into the family and proposing a toast to the couple. 3- The groom speaks next, thanking the guests for their attendance, complimenting his wife, and paying tribute to both sets of parents. He then ends by toasting the bridesmaids, thanking them for their support and help. In some cases, both the bride and groom can toast together although it is optional.
4- The microphone is then handed to his best man. His official duty is to reply on behalf of the bridesmaids. His speech should entail the lighter side of the event. The best man will tell stories about the groom and his crazy antics, being careful not to offend the bride or any guests.
BEFORE THE WEDDING
•Remain on the ball by staying away from the champagne before the speech. Once it's been executed, you can usher in the celebratory drinks.
•Practise makes perfect so be sure to go over your speech at least five times in front of a mirror or a friend. Have flash cards with key words from your speech to help you remem-ber.
THE SPEECH
•The speech should be under ten minutes as directed by the bride and groom, keeping it short and straightforward. •Make eye contact with your guests.
•Focus on the general interest of the audience and identify what should be said and what should be left out in order to avoid conflict and keep the audience engaged.
Who doesn’t love being entertained by the families and bridal party during speech time? Getting to know about the bride and groom from a father's or a best friend's perspective is always moving and inspiring. There is bound to be some laughs and lots of tears as the father of the bride speaks of his fondness for his new son in-law or as the best man recounts the sweetest story of how the couple first met. It is a common misconception that wedding speeches are only directed at the newlywed couple, which is not the case at all. People are so worried about the speech itself that they tend to forget the real factor that will affect the whole execution of the speech.
The wedding speech should be delivered to the entire audience and spoken in such a way that everyone can relate to. Timing is everything when it comes to delivering the wedding speeches. It is considered poor form to interrupt conversation during the meal courses as it cuts short the flow of events. Ideally, the toast should be made before the cutting of the cake and at the end of the meal. Your guests will be thankful that they are satisfied first.
