Here are some of the items I recommend covering in a planning meeting with a client:
- First, establish “rapport” – be their friend, their advocate
- Show them you’re the professional. Many of our clients are relying on us to help guide them through their wedding day. Many have never been in a wedding and have no idea what happens.
- Start with the basics first: let’s confirm the date; all the locations; exact street addresses for all the locations.
- Then begin with the ceremony start time (because that is usually set in stone by 30 days before the wedding).
- Then tell the client: “OK. So, you hired us for 6 or 7, etc. hours for your day. What time would you like us to arrive? And what time would you like us to leave?”
- If they’re not sure, ask them how much of the getting ready they want covered? And are there any things going on at the reception that they want covered before we leave? e.g. cut the cake, sparkler send off, etc.
- Ask when they want their formal photos done? Before or after the ceremony? Formals are the family groupings; bridal party then the couple portraits.
- Ask for a list of family groupings or create one in person: bride, groom & bride’s parents, etc….
- Ask for “creative direction” for their couple’s photos: do they like posed, staged, old fashioned photos? Or prefer candid, photojournalistic, documentary style?
- Ask them to email you sample couple’s photos (one email, low res thumbnails) – not their Pinterest board.
- And end with: “Are there any things that we haven’t covered that you’d like to discuss?
- Call Liam if you have questions: 305-333-6388
