Hiring Professionals Pays Off
Filed under Ceremony, Expert Advice, Music and Entertainment, Photography, Planning, Receptions, Wedding VideoBy Jan Brenner & Jennifer Ahearn
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if weddings just planned themselves and automatically included everything you ever wanted? You’d simply say “yes” to that designer gown you covet, the 300-person guest list, the six-course dinner with endless champagne, the hot band you just saw on YouTube and all the other deliciously pricey items on your wish list. That pesky word “budget” would not even be in your vocabulary.
Why Hire A Professional?
- They’re experienced. They’re accustomed to the pressures of a wedding and are prepared for just about every contingency.
- They work for you. You can tell them what to do and they’ll carry out your directives. Friends and relatives are also guests, and might neglect their “job.” Plus, working with a professional is a straightforward business arrangement, while working with friends and family can lead to awkward situations and damaged relationships.
- They have better equipment (including backup gear) and are expert at using it. Uncle Bob’s camera does have lots of megapixels and zippy features, but his favorite setting is “autofocus.”
- They give you peace of mind.
Before You Hire Anyone…
No matter who you hire—professional or amateur—here are some critical things you should do:
- Assess their experience. Don’t be shy. Find out how long they’ve been focusing specifically on weddings, and how many weddings they do in a year. Look at their portfolio, their informational materials, and any client testimonials.
- Ask for references and talk with some of their recent clients. It’s extremely helpful if you can contact clients whose wedding was similar to the one you’re planning. (Outdoors? For 250 guests? These things can make a difference.)
- Check their credentials. Make sure they are licensed to do business—especially if you’re working with a vendor who is just starting out.
- Follow your instincts. Having a good rapport with a vendor is important: Do you feel comfortable with them? Do they listen well and respond promptly? They might be highly recommended, but if you don’t click with them, select someone else.
- Get it in writing. To avoid misunderstandings, get everything you have agreed on in writing. Then read your contract carefully before you sign on the dotted line.
Let’s Compare:
| A Professional Photographer… | Your Uncle Bob… |
|---|---|
| Has specialized equipment with backups. | Has a nice camera. |
| Knows how to make you look your best. | Knows you well. |
| Poses formal shots; anticipates candids. | Takes pictures. |
| You can tell. | You can ask. |
| Is there to work. | Is also a guest. |
| Is accustomed to the responsibilities. | May feel pressure. |
| Knows how to solve unexpected problems. | Will do his best. |
| Uses a professional lab experienced in retouching and custom printing. | Develops film and makes prints where you do. |
| Will create the album that you want. | Will hand you a pile of prints. |
| Is priceless. | Is inexpensive. |
Courtesy of Kodak, http://www.kodak.com
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