From The Straits Times    |

PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES DEC 2014

1. We plan to offer a choice of chicken, beef or fish entrees at our dinner. Is it tacky to ask guests to indicate their preferences on their RSVPs?
It’s not tacky- but asking 200 guests what they’d prefer for dinner can be impractical. Think of your wedding reception as a dinner party. You wouldn’t ask each guest beforehand what they’d like and then prepare separate meals, nor would anyone expect it. It’s beter to decide what meal you prefer to serve and leave it at that.

2. We’re having our reception at a large church hall. How can I make the bride and groom’s chair at the main table stand out?
How about decorating your seats differently form the others, but still based on your wedding theme? For instance, if you have a colour theme of white and gold, we’d assume that the chairs will have white covers. If so, have the bride and groom’s seats in gold.

Another idea: Opt for entirely different chairs for yourselves, or have chair covers that carry both your initials.

3. Should invitations be send to the wedding couple’s parents?
Technically, everyone going to your wedding should receive an invitation. But we, being practical people, prefer to send out only the necessary invitations. It is, however, a nice gesture because the invitation can serve as a beautiful keepsake or an opener for your parents album. So if you’re close to your parents and know that they would appreciate such a gesture, why not?

4. My nose is very sensitive and I am worried about sneezing from the flowers in the church. Any suggestions besides excluding them?
Orchids, ranunculus and roses don’t give off as much scent, so consider these instead. Also ask your florist for flowers that give off less pollen. Another alternative, use more foliage like ivy or bear grass, which look modern and lovely.

Think about using fake flowers too. There are many made with fabric, which looks as good as the real deal. Fake flowers are good for decorating the side of the pews or as topiary stands where you’ll need many flowers.

As an extra precaution, check with your doctor about a medicinal nose spray that can stop sneezes and runny noses without causing sleepiness.

5. Any ideas on how to make my weddings photos special?
Many photographers specialise in candid shots with a journalistic or lifestyle feel. Images are shot, recording fleeting details and expressions of the day.

When deciding on photographers, start by interviewing those whose work reflect this or a style that you like. Ask the photographer to describe how they would shoot your wedding, if hired to do the job. Review his best images, and ask to see the full body of their work for an idea of his styles and the type of photographs he takes best. All this helps you get the best and most unique type of photos. Even if you want special and unconventional photos, do include some group portriats. You’ll get the best of different types of pictures.

This article was first published in Her World Brides December 2001- February 2002 and March – May 2002. 

If you have other questions that are unanswered here, please let us know through our Facebook page or drop us an e-mail at tfelicia@sph.com.sg.