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Things to do before your wedding you may not have thought of

  • bridal party in mirror

Things to do before your wedding

For both parties, weddings are often a blast. However, when you’re an almost-bride who is just months away from the big day, the entire time can be stressful, considering all you’ll need to get done.

To avoid panic, have a look at some of these things to do before your wedding and make sure you schedule to get them done ASAP.

A list of things to do before your wedding you may not have thought of

Discover essential things to do before your wedding day that are often overlooked, helping you stay organised and stress-free. Here’s a checklist you may not have thought of.

Get your paperwork in order

Remember, you can’t actually get married without signing an intent to marry with your celebrant. If you and your partner haven’t yet applied for one, now is the best time to do so.

Depending on your area, you can easily find the required documents online, which you should research and prepare before heading down to your registry office, or your celebrant.

Schedule your final fitting

If you’ve been exercising daily to achieve your ideal wedding bod, you’ll want to be sure your dress fits you perfectly. Schedule a final fitting in advance in case you have any alterations to undergo.

Bridal party helping bride get ready

Reiterate final details with wedding vendors

Review all the details of your wedding day with each of your vendors, whether in person or over the phone. That way, you can make any revisions to your menu or venue decor should you spot anything that isn’t quite up to par. Anyway, it can’t hurt to be too careful.

Engagement ring

Follow up with guests who haven’t RSVPd

If some of your guests are just a “maybe” you’ll want to make sure they give you a concrete yes or no. This task can be tedious, so you can ask your maid of honour to help finalise your headcount.

guests

Practice your final hair and makeup look

Whether you’re doing your own makeup or hiring a make-up artist, it’s important to get the look just the way you want it well before your wedding day to avoid any mistakes. After all, you’ll want to look perfect in all those glamorous close-up wedding photos. If possible, take your veil to try out along with your final look.

Putting on the makeup

Get your bridesmaids fitted

One of the most difficult aspects of a wedding to coordinate is customising each bridesmaid’s outfit. Make sure they’ve made arrangements for their own final fittings and that they’re scheduled to pick up their dresses on time. If not, you could be subject to several time-consuming alterations and last-minute bills.

Bridesmaids dresses

Treat yourself to a facial or a massage

There’s no denying the stress that comes with the month leading up to your wedding, so you’ll want to make sure you’re finding pockets of time to relax. If you’re getting a facial, do so at least a few weeks before your big day as you won’t want to risk having a reaction too close to your actual wedding.

Send out your rehearsal dinner invites

A rehearsal dinner is an important part of making sure everything about your wedding is going according to plan. It’ll also give you an opportunity to practice walking down the aisle and exchanging wedding gifts if you aren’t planning on doing so on your actual wedding day.

Send your invites out in advance, especially if you’re inviting anyone from out of town.

Serafinos Wedding Reception

Come up with a wedding day timeline

If anyone needs to be kept in the loop, hand out a schedule to your bridal party, family members, and vendors. You never know who might need to make last-minute changes.

bridal entrace at Woodstock winery wedding reception

Final Week Before Your Wedding Checklist

The final week before the wedding day is here! While the major planning is done, there are still crucial things to do before your wedding to ensure everything runs flawlessly.

This checklist will help you tie up loose ends and focus on enjoying your moment. Knowing what to do before the wedding in these last few days is key to a serene celebration.

  • Confirm with All Vendors: One of the most critical things to do before the wedding day in this final week is to reconfirm times and details with your venue coordinator, caterer, florist, and especially your wedding photographer and videographer. Ensure they have the final schedule and contact information for your day-of coordinator or a key family member.
  • Finalise Payments (or payment schedule): Settle any outstanding balances or confirm the payment schedule for your vendors. This avoids any awkwardness or delays on the actual day.
  • Pack Your Emergency Kit: Double-check your wedding day emergency kit. Include essentials like safety pins, pain relievers, fashion tape, snacks, water, and any personal medications. This little effort can resolve minor issues quickly.
  • Break in Your Shoes: If you haven’t already, wear your wedding shoes around the house for a few hours each day. This prevents discomfort and blisters on the day itself.
  • Delegate Small Tasks: Assign small, last-minute errands (like picking up guest favours or delivering welcome bags) to trusted family members or your bridal party. This frees you up to relax.
  • Beauty Prep: Schedule your final beauty appointments, such as manicures, pedicures, and hair styling, to ensure you’re feeling and looking your best.
  • Get Your Rings Ready: Confirm your rings are clean and easily accessible, perhaps entrusted to a best man or maid of honour.

Amidst this flurry of things to do before the wedding, remember to take moments for yourselves. By completing this final week before the wedding checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for the joyful occasion.

Bride’s Emergency Kit: Must-Haves

The wedding day is a whirlwind of joy, but even the most perfectly planned events can have small, unexpected hiccups. Having a well-stocked bride’s emergency kit is one of the smartest things to do before your wedding day to ensure you stay calm and collected, no matter what. Knowing what to do before the wedding and having these essentials on hand means you’re prepared for anything.

Here’s a checklist of must-have items for your bride’s emergency kit:

  • Mini Sewing Kit: For quick fixes like a loose button, popped seam, or tiny tear. Include a needle, thread (white, black, and colours matching your dress/suit), small scissors, and safety pins.
  • Pain Relievers & Antacids: Headaches, stress, or an upset stomach can strike unexpectedly. Have your preferred pain medication and antacids readily available.
  • Fashion Tape & Double-Sided Tape: Essential for securing necklines and hemlines or preventing wardrobe malfunctions.
  • Stain Remover Pen/Wipes: For any small spills or marks that might occur before or during photos.
  • Blotting Papers & Setting Spray: To manage shine and keep your makeup fresh throughout the day.
  • Hair Essentials: Mini hairspray, bobby pins, hair ties, and a comb/brush for quick touch-ups.
  • Nail Kit: A small file and clear polish can fix a chipped nail or a run in stockings.
  • Snacks & Water: Keep small, non-messy snacks (like granola bars) and a bottle of water handy to prevent low blood sugar or dehydration.
  • Small Mirror: For quick checks of your hair and makeup.
  • Comfortable Shoes: A pair of flats or comfortable sandals for dancing when the photos are done.
  • Dental Kit: A travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouthwash/mints for fresh breath.

Having this bride’s emergency kit organised is one of those crucial things to do before a wedding that truly pays off. By preparing this kit, you’re ensuring peace of mind, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of your day.

While your big day may come with a lot of responsibilities, it’s important that it’s one that is memorable to you and your groom, so to make sure your day runs as smoothly as possible, think about this short list of some of the things to do before your wedding and make sure there is time set aside to make sure they happen!

If you haven’t hired a wedding photographer yet, we like to think we are the best in Adelaide and make capturing unmissable moments a priority on your wedding day – contact us today!

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Mclaren Vale wineries – 8 of my favourite

  • Above the Ekhidna Winery vineyard

 

A list of Mclaren Vale wineries

Being a local to the area, having grown up and still living nearby to Mclaren Vale and also being a wedding photographer that is often asked to cover weddings in Mclaren Vale, I’ve come to really enjoy heading to Mclaren Vale and thought I’d list some of my favourite Mclaren Vale wineries. This list is based on my own personal preferences and is not ranked from most favourite to least favourite – it’s just how lists go, they need to be numbered! 😀 Also most of the photos I’ve featured in the list were photos I’ve taken at weddings I’ve covered at that winery.

Mclaren Vale boasts some of the most world-reknown best vineyards and wineries that create some of the best wine in the world. The scenery available in the region is also sometimes absolutely incredible. The entire town of Mclaren Vale is under strict government ordnance no not develop too much so as to preserve the unique charm the area has developed over it’s long history. I love heading down to Mclaren Vale as it feels like a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life – and you can enjoy some great wine and food too! I’ll be writing up a short personal description of each winery and also giving my choice of my favourite drink produced at each!

1. Ekhidna Winery

Ekhidna Winery is a small little winery located off a short dirt track, but still pretty much right in the middle of the Mclaren vale wine district. The winery is backdropped by the stunning southern hills and the cellar door itself is surrounded by vineyards that light up spectacularly during sunset. Although it’s a winery my favourite drop from here are the alcoholic ginger beers on offer here – they are just great!

Ekhidna Winery Wedding Ceremony
Ekhidna Wines
Walking amongst the Ekhidna Winery vines

2. Coriole Winery

Coriole was always my own personal choice of winery to host my own wedding at, as the whole set up is nothing short of spectacular. The grassy area where a wedding or event would usually take place overlooks the whole valley of Mclaren Vale, while there is a small intimate courtyard in amongst the garden and heritage building that makes up the establishment. My favourite wine would have to be the 2016 Cabernet Merlot.

Coriole Winery Wedding
Kisses in the Coriole Vineyard
Coriole Winery Wedding

3. Woodstock Winery

Woodstock Winery has one of th enicest settings for an upper class restaurant in the region in my opinion. I always enjoy heading out here for a nice lunch with the family – although it can be a little pricey. As for an event venue, it boasts a large grassy area surrounded by gum trees and vineyards which makes for a beautifully intimate setting. The Woodstock winery ‘Ruby Velvet’ Sparkling red is my choice of wine from here!

Woodstock winery wine bottles
Woodstock winery at dusk
Woodstock winery wedding ceremony

4. SC Pannell Winery

SC Pannell is one of the few Mclaren Vale wineries in this list that faces East to West, rather than North South – this is important when you’re thinking of sunset photos. I’m not entirely sure if they still offer wedding ceremonies or receptions as last time I was here they were changing hands and werent sure on the furtue of weddings at their venue. The winery has a very nifty motif for their logo and their bottles stand out amongst the rest because of it. My favourite wine from here would have to be their 2016 Tanino.

SC Pannell wall
SC Pannell Wedding Reception Hall
Walking down the SC Pannell driveway

5. Maxwell Wines

I feel as though Maxwell wines was never really set up to host large events, but as a venue it can handle smaller gatherings and weddings rather nicely. It’s restaurant isnt huge, nor is there much flat grass to stand on, but there is an awesome maze to venture through and a wonderful aged cellar that is great to take moody photos in. Maxwell may also be a name better attributed to it’s Mead production too as the winery produces one of the most well known brands of Mead around!

6. Paxton Winery

Paxton Winery is a delightful little spot hidden on one of the backstreets leading into Mclaren Vale. I say it’s hidden as it’s located on a little dirt road and can be a little tricky to get to if you’re already in Mclaren Vale itself. Whats great about this little winery is it’s stunning vistas available form it’s cellar door, coupled with the wonderful heritage listed buildings around the place that adds to the charm of this wonderful spot. I’m going to have to go for the Pinot Gris from here.

Paxton Winery Roof
Bride and Groom in Pepper Tree

7. Serafino Winery

Serafino Winery is perhaps one of the most popular spots in Mclaren Vale to host a wedding as it can cater to both high and low budget weddings, while also being able to be set up to reflect the budget. The main event hall is stunning with a domed glass roof, and it’s wide open grassy areas make for some wonderful spots to walk about or host an event. Talking of events, Serafino wines usually hosts some of the bigger music festivals in Mclaren Vale like Hot Dub Wine Machine. My favourite drop from here would be any of their award winning Terremoto Syrahs.

Serafino winery’s reception hall
Serafinos Wedding First Dance
Serafino wedding

8. Olivers White Hill Estate

Olivers is an interesting one to add to this list as the winery itself is not the same as the bed and breakfast I usually visit for weddings – so sorry to say thT i cannot recommed a wine from this particular winery 🙂 The appeal of this spot is the fact that it’s one of the oldest houses in Mclaren vale and the gardens overlook a beautiful little pond surrounded by native gum trees.

Cake in Olivers Chaff Shed reception hall
Olivers Chaff Shed grounds
Olivers Chaff Shed reception area

There are so many more Mclaren Vale wineries so this is by far not a complete list – I will however be adding more to this list as I sample more Mclaren Vale wineries!

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Common wedding planning mistakes and how to avoid them!

Wedding planning mistakes and how to avoid them

Having attended quite a few weddings as a wedding photographer, and also having had gone through the process of being my own wedding planner for my own wedding within 5 months last year, I’ve put together a little list of common wedding planning mistakes that I see happen all the time.  It’s not an easy task planning a wedding, and it certainly isn’t a cheap one either. Combining these two aspects causes a lot of stress and quite a few of these common mistakes!

Planning a wedding is made up of dozens of little jobs that range from super important things like choosing and booking a venue on a wedding date you like, down to the simple things such as choosing the groom’s socks. All put together makes a monumental task. Just remember however that with so many things happening, something is bound to not go to plan so try not to make it impact your day too much.

Common Wedding Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and even small oversights can lead to major stress. To help you have a smooth celebration, here is a list of wedding planning mistakes to avoid.

Budgeting mistakes

Perhaps the most common mistake that people stress over on their wedding party is how much everything adds up to. I myself was guilty of this, spending around 30% more than our budget allowed. But planning a wedding is expensive. Try to factor in what you can afford along with what your family are willing to pitch in, then prioritise what is the most important for you. For me personally the most important parts of our day was the wedding photographer, and the reception venue. For other wedding vendors it may be the bridal dress, perhaps a videographer?

The point is, dont go cheap with the most important parts of your day, then you can go a bit cheaper with the parts that don’t matter as much. There’s always going to be some hidden costs too, so when working out your budget in your planning process – add a little to it so there are no surprises. The goal is to save money, not jeopardise your weding style!

Mum with the money

Letting others organise your guest list

Your parents probably have a bit of a dream in their heads about what their perfect wedding for you looks like. Hell, they’ve probably been planning it in their head and their own wedding guest list since you were born! So cut them some slack when they insist of inviting family members like second cousin three times removed just because they shared a carrot when they were growing up. But on the other hand make sure they are clear on your budget restraints and that the day is your day, not theirs.

A wedding day is supposed to celebrate your own personal love for one another with your closest friends and family. Just make sure everyone knows your intent in regards to your guest list upfront and you’ll avoid one of the most stress-inducing common wedding planning mistakes.

Group photo

No plan ‘B’ for weather

Now living in Adelaide, we tend to be very lucky when it comes to the weather during our wedding season. Adelaide is the driest city in the driest state on the driest continent in the world. It doesnt rain much here, and when it does it doesnt stay long. But it does happen, and if you have no backup plan for your wedding ceremony or your reception, it can be devastating. The best venues I’ve found actually have a plan B set up for just an occasion, but other locations it just may not be possible. Marquee hire is a common backup plan for locations where there isn’t a convenient building to use.

The only good thing about having a wedding in the rain is that it’s supposed to be good luck, and you get some great unique photos out of it! 😀

Wedding lighting

Look after your guests

The common timeline for a wedding day usually calls for a 1-2 hours photoshoot in between the end of your wedding ceremony and the start of your reception. This means that your guests are left to entertain themselves for that period of time. If your venue is out of the way, this may cause some distress with your guests. Try to entertain them with something, give them something to do! Be it lawn games at your venue, or makes a game of it like a scavenger hunt, with a prize given out at your reception?

At the very least suggest a local attraction or a nice pub for them to visit while they wait for you. Some wedding websites can provide insights on hotel rooms and ways to help guests to arrive, or perhaps deal with too many guests. Just remember you have the final say on everything, and your guests may either like or not like your desicions, so act wisely 🙂

Spray tanning, or changing your look too much

Please, please don’t suddenly decide to go get a fake tan for the first time a week out for your wedding! If you’ve had a spray tan before, and you were happy with the result, then go for it, but only if you go back to the same place. Nothing worse than being an oompaloompa in a wedding dress! Same goes for dying your hair, or drastically changing your makeup. Always trial it all several months before your wedding to make sure you’d be ok looking like that on your wedding day.

Eating

Crash dieting in the weeks leading up to your wedding day can cause sickness and just isn’t a great idea in general. The idea is to be as happy and healthy you can be on your big day, so try not to do anything to jeopardise this. Same goes for eating on the day. Often nerves get to brides and grooms on their wedding day, which causes a loss of appetite, but eating and keeping your fluids up (not alcohol) is very important!

Many brides fall into this trap – hopefully your bridal party can help out – as that’s what ther job is!

Food

Seating arrangements

Perhaps one of the hardest part of planning a wedding is sorting out where everyone is sitting at your reception. It’s one of those common wedding planning mistakes that can really cause people to get upset if they are sitting next to someone they despise, or something. One big problem people overlook is placing all the single guests on a ‘singles table’. Having everyone single at a table together is rather uncomfortable for them, so try to mix them about on other tables, hopefully with guests who share a common interest.

Guests having fun

Sort out your clothes in the days prior

Another one I’m guilty of. To all the men and grooms to be out there, get out your shirts and wear/iron them at least once in the days leading up to your wedding! Shirts come with an ugly crease through them brad new and need to be ironed! Brides out there, pick out some comfy undies, preferably white so that they can’t be seen through your dress! I can’t count how many times I’ve had to awkwardly point out that your black panties can be seen in your photos. It’s one of those small common wedding planning mistakes you don’t often think about.

If you’ve sorted out what you’re wearing you hang it up and not think about it until the day right? Ladies put on your dress as often as possible too, make sure it’s comfortable. If you’re wearing high heels and planning on having photos done at the beach or in a forest, perhaps pack a change of shoes too.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

Perhaps the most important thing of all, don’t let small issues dominate your thoughts. Remember what the point of the day is – to get legally married. Things are bound to go wrong, that’s life, but don’t let it phase you. Just be thankful you don’t have to contend with a cyclone, or fires on your wedding day. Enjoy yourself!

Same goes for wedding traditions. If they don’t mean anything to you, dont think they will magically ruin your life just because you don’t follow something! Then again if it is important to you to have the perfect wedding – by all means plan for it – don’t expect everything to just ‘happen’. Worrying too much about stuff like this is how so many couples can lose sight of the end result and caught up in the small stuff.

Willunga Peacock Farm Wedding photography

Wedding Attire Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the perfect wedding attire is an exciting milestone, but it’s also where many couples encounter avoidable pitfalls. To ensure your special day flows smoothly and your photos are flawless, be mindful of these common attire mistakes.

  • Last-Minute Fittings and Alterations: Rushing your dress fittings or suit alterations can lead to ill-fitting garments and unnecessary stress. Start early to allow ample time for multiple adjustments and a perfect fit.
  • Ignoring Venue and Season: Your wedding dress style and groom’s suit should complement your chosen venue and the climate. A heavy gown might be uncomfortable for a summer outdoor ceremony, while light attire may look out of place at a formal winter event.
  • Prioritising Style Over Comfort: While looking stunning is key, you’ll be wearing your wedding outfit for many hours. Opt for breathable fabrics and ensure your bridal gown or groom’s wear allows for easy movement and dancing.
  • Overlooking Undergarments and Shoes: Always bring the correct undergarments and shoes to your fittings. These elements significantly impact the final look and fit of your wedding attire.
  • Forgetting to Budget for Extras: Remember to factor in costs for alterations, accessories (like veils, jewellery, or ties), and even professional cleaning for your wedding outfits.

By avoiding these common wedding attire mistakes, you can ensure both comfort and confidence on your big day. SvenStudios is dedicated to capturing every detail of your beautifully chosen wedding fashion, preserving these cherished memories in timeless wedding photography in Adelaide and videography.

How to Avoid Wedding Communication Errors

Effective communication is paramount when planning a wedding. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to your special day, here’s how to avoid wedding communication errors:

  • Don’t assume: Never assume everyone is on the same page. Always confirm details in writing with your partner, family, and wedding vendors.
  • Use Shared Tools: Create a shared document or use a planning app to keep everyone updated on decisions, timelines, and responsibilities. This helps prevent miscommunication.
  • Address Issues Promptly: Don’t delay difficult conversations. If there’s a disagreement about a wedding detail or budget, address it respectfully and openly to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Establish Clear Points of Contact: Assign a primary point of contact for different aspects of your wedding (e.g., for your wedding photographer or videographer). This ensures efficient information flow and prevents confusion.
  • By implementing these communication strategies, you can significantly reduce wedding communication errors and enjoy a more harmonious planning process. SvenStudios prides itself on clear and professional communication, ensuring we understand your vision and capture every precious moment.

Contact us today to discuss your photography and videography needs and experience our seamless service.

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