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Wedding Coordinator checking in...
Photography is a very expensive option, but in my opinion, these are the memories that we will keep forever -- why skimp here?
Skimp on flowers - NO ONE will remember your flowers. They will remember the food and the cake. They may remember what the bride looked like if they are close to you.
Also, a wedding coordinator, although it may seem like an additional expense, is a good investment. If you get a qualified person that has experience in your town, she should be able to get you discounts on services. I have a few vendors that I recommend exclusively, and they offer discounts to my couples because of my repeat business with them. Plus, I know they are reputable, and if there was a problem, it would be fixed.
Back to pictures - price, unfortunately, will not determine the best photographer. Ask for references - and then ask those people if they will meet with you and show you their albums. ALWAYS good to see someone else's album - the demo albums the photographers show are of course going to be perfect - they are most likely using models, and they are using high quality pictures to display.
Negatives - a good photographer should be willing to sell you the negatives at a reasonable price. They don't need them - after a year or so, they will probably ditch them. Negatives are great to have because a) after you buy a package, you can get your own duplicates made; and b) keep them in a safe-deposit box so if you should have a house fire, heaven forbid, they will be safe.
Check with the Better Business Bureau also - see if there are any complaints or pending issues with the company.
Your photographer should only shoot your wedding on that day. You don't want a double booked event -- and they should have an assistant with them that can serve as a backup should something happen to the photographer (you'd be surprised how many fall at a wedding and end up going to the hospital). You also want to make sure that they are using multiple cameras - no less than two - should one malfunction.
DO NOT be afraid to ask for discounts if you are purchasing a large package, or for a discount on an extra hour or two if you are booking for a large amount of time.
You will want before pictures - the rehearsal, getting ready, etc. so that is a definite. Also, have a list typed up and printed off for the photographer so that you don't forget anyone. I know this sounds silly - even being a wedding coord, I still forgot to have a picture made with my favorite aunt. You'll be busy and you won't think of these things at the time.
Finally - have your photographer kick everyone out after the ceremony, when all the group shots, etc. are done. Just have about 15 min alone-time with your husband for shots. These will probably end up being your favorite - I found it to be a great time to de-stress from all the hoopla and enjoy being Mrs. AXO Alum for a few minutes before heading to the reception.
I know this is a lot, but I am trying to help you get the most for your buck.
And, sad to say, this is YOUR wedding, and you should be happy - not worrying about what so-and-so says. When all is said and done, these will be your memories.
Let me know if I can be of more help!
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