Every time I photograph a wedding I get inspiration for my own future wedding. I notice what I do and don't like, what has the biggest impact on how enjoyable the night is, and what seems unnecessary. Through wedding experience, I have developed my own wedding priorities. While this list is completely based on Caili Chung's super biased opinion, I figured I'd share it anyway.
Weddings are expensive and figuring out your priorities allows you to better choose what to save vs. splurge on. I've split up my personal values in first, second, and third tiers.
FIRST TIER PRIORITIES FOR CAILI
1. The People Present
The number of people you invite dictates how much food, how big the venue, how many chairs, etc. The number of people present at your wedding is the biggest determinant of how much you'll end up spending. A smaller wedding (or even elopement) can be really stunning and intimate. However, a wedding is one of the few opportunities you have to bring together everyone you love. Each bride will have to weigh their personal priorities. Consider and count your non-negotiable must-be-present people.
2. Photography
I can't objectively say photography is important, but I genuinely believe it really matters. A wedding requires a lot of planning. A wedding is the only opportunity to bring together all your most important people in one spot. Your photographer needs to be trusted to do all this justice. Your photos are the only thing you take away from your wedding (other than your spouse)!
In addition, your photographer will be right next to you for the entire day. If you don't like your photographer as a person, having them so present may feel uncomfortable. You want to be surrounded by people who increase the joy of your wedding day. That being said, I may not be the best personality choice for you and it is important that you have someone who is.
It's not enough to hire a talented photographer, you should hire a wedding photographer. Everything is easier with practice and experience really pays off at a wedding. A seasoned wedding photographer knows how to handle any situation and create beautiful work. Be sure to ask to see examples of photographs taken in low lighting! An experienced photographer will also know how to direct large groups. They'll know the best places to stand for good angles. They'll have backup gear just in case of technical difficulties. And they'll have a plan regarding how long it takes to take the photos you want.
Weddings can be high stress and a seasoned wedding photographer will handle the pressure and still create gorgeous images.
3. Venue
Your venue sets the vibe of the whole day and should be chosen with care. That doesn't mean it needs to be expensive. I've seen the high price tag of some venues and I literally laughed out loud. Some backyards, community centers, and restaurants can work really beautifully.
The right venue can make everything look gorgeous even if the smaller details are lacking. Sometimes when brides choose a less expensive venue, they require a lot of decor to spruce it up and ultimately end up with a bigger headache (and expense).
4. Something creative/gasp-worthy/unique
It can be your venue. It can be your altar arrangement. It can be some decor element. I've been weddings that clearly had a large budget, but I think something unique is a lot more memorable than giant flower centerpieces.
Saharai and Luis had the most incredible mountain backdrop during their ceremony
Brittany and Karl had colorful jars, spare flowers, and candles lining their venue. It was stunning and set the vibe of their chill, fun day.
All the heart eyes for that floral arch behind Sam and Sam <3
Allison loves dinosaurs. During her wedding she had little dinosaurs incorporated through all her decor.
5. DJ/Band
Music matters. It dictates the mood of your reception. I've seen receptions with just an iPod playing and while those receptions are still fun, the mood is simply less hype.
If you have live acoustic music during the ceremony or first dance, consider utilizing students. As a ex-member of many a piano competition and youth orchestra, I've seen so many talented, non-professional musicians.
This is a 3 part series:
Click here to read about my second tier wedding priorities!
Click here to read about my third tier wedding priorities!
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming! But I gotchu ;) After going to so many weddings as a photographer, I've got plenty of recommendations. I made a guide breaking down each part of the wedding day for all my brides. And the best part? I'll share it with you. Absolutely free! Click here
