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| The wedding officiant–me–has stepped aside |
Until I actually started my business as a wedding officiant, I never talked much with wedding photographers, djs, wedding planners, venue owners, caterers and the like. Officiating at weddings was only a small part of my job in my call as a pastor. I didn’t have time to stress over lighting or sound. I didn’t really care whether the floral arrangements clashed with the pew cushions. Now though, I am on the inside of this strange thing called “the wedding industry.” I find that I am developing an eye for what works and what doesn’t work regarding the wedding and reception. And I am learning lots from conversations with other wedding professionals.
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| Mirrors present a special problem for photographers |
Take photographers for instance. I love talking with photographers. I have learned so much. In the gentlest way possible a photographer friend suggested once that no one wants little ole me in the background of that important shot when groom kisses bride for the first time after vows have been exchanged. The majestic Blue Ridge mountains, a clear blue lake, a stained glass window—now THOSE are appropriate backdrops for a passionate kiss! So, now, as soon as I pronounce a couple is husband and wife, I step aside.
I have learned, too, that any wedding photography company worth its salt will send out two photographers, not just one, to cover the event. There is just too much going on at too fast a clip for one photographer to cover it all.
Last evening, at a “wedding industry event” I learned from a photographer that his worst nightmare is shooting a wedding or wedding reception in a room with mirrors. The photographer with whom I spoke actually did that at the John Marshall Hotel in Richmond (pre-renovation) and of course, the mirrors reflected his camera’s flashes. Photoshop is a wonder, but even that fine software program is limited. Who would have thought?
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| No one can hear vows spoken above an airplane engine! |
The other logistical issue I would like to mention today is sound. The current wisdom offered officiants is, “Just project your voice. People will be able to hear you.” NOT. I am a small person but I can project, believe me, I can project. No matter how loud my voice, however, it is not easily heard above flying airplanes or burbling brooks. At outdoor weddings, even a slight breeze can interfere with sound. Then, too, sad to say, architects do not always consider acoustics when they build ballrooms, or sanctuaries, restaurants or tasting rooms. One way to solve this problem IF your wedding reception is at the same place as the wedding ceremony and IF you have hired a dj—ask him/her to wire me, the officiant. A good dj has the equipment and the know-how to do this.
So there you have it. Light and sound seem so insignificant when choosing a spot for your wedding and reception, yet they should be seriously considered. They can make all the difference. .Happy wedding planning.
Your Wedding Preacher for Hire
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| Sorry there’s too much burble in that brook! |
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