I was married 11 years ago. And like many people these days, I had a family member who “took wedding photos” take my wedding photos, it was a heck of a deal! It was also partly a “gift” to my new husband and I. How could I beat that? I was into saving money and save money I did. Heartache though, is another story.
The day totally went by in a blur. I made my husband-to-be and his groomsmen arrive early at the church to get ready so we could take as many photos as possible before the wedding without me being able to see my husband ahead of time. I had painstakingly made a list of every shot I wanted and gave it to my photographer so I would have great memories forever!
I arrived at the church to get ready and my photographer was there the entire time with my bridesmaids and I. I got to wondering when she was going to leave to take pictures of my husband and the guys, so I reminded her. She promptly left and returned in record time. “You’re done?” I asked. She said she was. I was so wrapped up in trying not to be nervous and make sure a million other plans went smoothly that I didn’t even realize my bridesmaids stayed with me the whole time to keep me calm.
So the time came, I walked down the isle with my Dad, we said our vows and were pronounced husband and wife. It was party time! And a great party it was. My photographer set up the shots of the cake and toast, the bouquet and garter toss and things were going well. So I thought. We left for our honeymoon and returned excited to see our photos and the video, who we hired a friend to do for us (you can read this story at www.whyweddingvideo.com)
We went to the photographers house to see the pictures. They looked great! Those that were there. I had no pictures of my husband with the flower girls, my husband with my bridesmaids- who were my very best friends nor any posed photos of the bridesmaids each with the groomsmen they walked in with as I had requested on my list. She had forgotten the list at home that day. No wonder the time she spent with the groomsmen took only a few minutes to get. It also served to upset the guys who showed up way earlier than needed for all the photos.
I totally cherish what I do have, but still have hurt feelings for what I didn’t get. Now I can never go back and get those photos. She knew I was disappointed and I have since forgiven her. I know professionals may sometimes make mistakes as well, but they are kept to minimums. Professionals generally also work in teams so they do not miss shots requested by the bride and groom. I would love to have had a coffee table album but did not know they existed at the time. I also understand this happened 11 years ago, but when friends and family are counted on for these very important roles, it can sometimes, and usually does, backfire. They are also not able to enjoy the day with you because they are focused on other tasks.
Meet with and hire a professional. It is well worth the money you think you could have saved planning the wedding of your dreams, but you will want to remember all those memories forever, as well.
S. Guinn, Fat Cat Productions
