There are so many details to think of when planning a wedding, but some of the vendors chosen really affect what I can achieve as a photographer.
Last Sunday I photographed Lara & Daniel’s wedding at The Jumeirah Carlton Towers. I always tell prospective couples that money spent on “production” not only transforms a room but forms the backdrop for many of my photographs. The ballroom looked very elegant with the addition of lilac mood lighting and crystal chairs. Everyone always thinks of the flowers, but production can incorporate everything right down to tablecloths and crockery. I have been working with Great Expectations for many years, and with the right budget have seen them transform the blandest of ballrooms into something exquisite.
My heart sinks when I ask a prospective couple the “Who is the toastmaster” question and it is answered with “we don’t want a guy in a red coat so a friend is doing it”. Luckily for me, Lara and Daniel employed the services of another Daniel called Daniel Stollar as the “toastie”, and although he did indeed wear a red coat, the toastmaster doesn’t have to if you would prefer a black jacket or a DJ. David Collins one of London leading toastmasters even told me that at one barmitzvah he had to dress as an accessory from James Bond!
The toastmaster is the one who makes sure that the timings keep on track, and if not, reorganises things to ensure that the event runs smoothly. A good “toastie” will work with me if an extra few minutes are required for family photos (although I rarely run late), and he will also ensure that the photographer and videographer are in place before introducing a speech or other event. Other toast masters I frequently work with are Howard Robins, Steve Warwick and Simon Green.
Most of the weddings I cover are Jewish weddings. Inevitably the coverage is twelve hours from the bride getting ready until the end of the party. Logistically that means that I eat breakfast and generally don’t get to drink or eat again until the guests are having dinner. So imagine….it is 8.00pm, I am starving and my energy levels are dropping. The guests are tucking in to a banquet which looks and smells divine, and the caterer considers that the vendors are just a nuisance and will be fed when there is time. 
Remember that the client has paid for the vendors to eat, and contractually they are obliged to offer me a hot meal when attendance is in excess of six hours. They eventually serve us diner but we can’t eat it because we have to go and cover the next set of dancing.
Carol Sobell was the caterer at Lara & Daniel’s wedding. She really spoilt the vendors with food which was exactly the same as that served to the guests. Sometimes we get a “carbohydrate” buffet of lasagne & chips from other caterers. Carol doubly spoilt us because she served us all three courses.
Naturally I can only create good party photos if people are having a blast. Wayne Hart produced the musical entertainment for Lara & Daniel, and his band kept the crowd moving and grooving all night.
