 |
WEDDING QUESTIONS
How do I get a marriage license?
I am having my wedding on a public beach. Should I consider using a private location or hotel grounds?
I'm having my wedding on a public beach next to a hotel. Can we go onto their grounds for photos?
Does it matter what day of the week I have my wedding on?
What is the weather like in Exuma?
Can you describe the different wedding locations?
Why should I have music at my wedding?
Should I get a "Sound Anchor System" for my wedding?
Do you recommend getting video as well as photography?
I am having my hair done. Are there any hair styles that I should avoid?
What about sunburn; can I still spend time on the beach and enjoy my pre-wedding festivities?
Some of my wedding guests don't "get along". What shall I do about this?
I tend to run a little late. Is it OK to show up for my wedding on "Island Time"?
PHOTOGRAPHY QUESTIONS
What's the best time of day to have my wedding so I can get the nicest possible photos?
We are having a sunset wedding, what time should we start?
How much time should I allow and what photography package should I choose?
What is 35mm photography?
What is "photojournalistic" style of photography?
When does my photography coverage start and are pictures taken during the ceremony?
I have certain shots that I would like, when and how should I tell the photographer about them?
Can we meet our photographer before the wedding so that he/she can take some of the formal shots before our guests arrive?
I'd like to have the photographer photograph my wedding pictures at two different locations or have them do some pictures in the morning and some at sunset. Is there an extra fee?
Can our photographer cover my reception as well?
Can I get black & whites as well as color photos?
How long does it take to get my photographs and /or album?
Will the photographer sell me the negatives?
How do I view and receive my photos?
VIDEOGRAPHY QUESTIONS
What is Professional Video?
What is Journalistic-style Video?
How long does it take to get my video?
A WEDDING BREEZE WEDDING QUESTIONS
What are "Professional Wedding Coordination Services" and "On-Site Wedding Director" and how do they differ from one another?
What can I expect from A Wedding Breeze once I secure my wedding date with a deposit?
Is it customary to tip and who should receive a gratuity?
Do you have any additional advice to help insure a "smooth" wedding day?
WEDDING QUESTIONS
How do I get a marriage license?
Wedding Breezes arranges your marriage license appointment for you. There is a one day residency requirement before applying for your license. No blood test is required. Passports or other government-issued photo identification, airline tickets, along with the following: If the applicant is unmarried/single, a declaration certifying that the fact (can be obtained from the local island Administrator for of fee of $20.00 per person); if the applicant is divorced, the original final decree or a certified copy; or if the applicant is widowed, a death certificate or certified copy must be produced as evidence of current marital status. The Bahamian marriage license fee of $100.00 is due at the time of application and is accepted in Bahamian or US cash dollars. You may marry on the same day that you obtain your marriage license. Please click here to see the full information on marriage license requirements. Click here for full information on obtaining your marriage license.
I am having my wedding on a public beach. Should I consider using a private location or hotel grounds?
If privacy is an absolute concern, you may want to consider paying for a hotel courtyard or a private property location. Public beaches are popular with our visitors and residents and because all beaches in The Bahamas are public up to the high-water mark; it is not possible to reserve them. Because Exuma is a relatively unspoiled group of islands, it is rare that you will encounter crowds of people on the beach at the same time as you unless it is one located in a popular area. However, it is possible and we cannot guarantee that you will not. It is also possible that another wedding will be taking place at the same location and time as your wedding. Some of the private locations and almost all of the hotels are located on the beach front so you can still get beach and sunset shots after your ceremony. Many of the private locations and hotels offer protection from the elements such as wind and/or rain. You may find it worthwhile to pay a location fee to insure privacy, as a back up location in case of bad weather, and to take advantage of the variety of scenery that is offered by most of the private locations and hotels. Most private locations and hotels offer lush tropical garden scenery, natural landscape as well as beautiful beach front views. Consult with your Wedding Breezes Island Wedding Specialist about the best location for your needs.
I'm having my wedding on a public beach next to a hotel. Can we go onto their grounds for photos?
No, you cannot go onto to hotel grounds wearing your wedding attire with a professional photographer and/or videographer without paying their grounds/location fee (typically $400 & up) even if you're a guest at the resort.
Does it matter what day of the week I have my wedding on?
Yes. If you are having your wedding on a public beach, it is best that you do not choose the weekend because the beaches tend to be more crowded on those days and Saturdays, in particular, is a real popular day for weddings. If you are booking a private location or hotel, you may have your wedding any day of the week, subject to availability.
What is the weather like in Exuma?
The weather in the Southern Bahamas is sub tropical, mostly sunny and hot. In the winter the temperature rarely drops below 60°F at night and 75°F in the daytime. In the summer, the temperature climbs to around 90°F in the day and dropping to 75°F at night, usually with a breeze off the Atlantic Ocean to keep the humidity down. Usually in the Exumas, if it should rain, it isually lasts approximately ten to fifteen minutes and then the rain stops and the sun comes back out. The ground is dry enough so you can still enjoy outdoor activities. June and August are the months with the most rainfall. If you are worried about rain, then you should definitely pay for hotel grounds or a private location. For instance, some locations (Four Seasons, Bougainvillea House, etc.) offer excellent protection from the rain and wind, whereas, public beaches offer no protection at all.
Can you describe the different wedding locations?
Yes, detailed descriptions can be found on the wedding locations page.
Why should I have music at my wedding?
Music captures the moment and expresses your emotions and feelings at each stage during your wedding ceremony. From your processional, after the reading, or declaration of intention and after the ring exchange leading up to the moment where you both say "I do." Music enhances your wedding ceremony and highlights the passion between the two of you. Naturally, we recommend Authentic Bahamian Music, of course, such as a steel pan/drum player, rake & scrape or live band. However, you can feel free to compliment your island wedding music with your own "flavor" if you have an iPod. Connections can be requested.
Should I get a "Sound Anchor System" for my wedding?
Sound does not carry in outdoor locations. Due to the weather and the elements of the sound of the wind and waves of the ocean (you know, the tropical breezes that you enjoy), your guests will not be able to hear the Officiant and musician. A sound anchor system is strongly recommended for groups of six (6) and over. A sound anchor system includes two (2) speakers and one (1) wireless microphone for the Officiant. An additional lavaliere microphone is available for rental and recommended for the musician/vocalist. When the sound anchor system is not selected , the number one complaint that is received from guests is that they could not hear. It is unfortunate when you have family and friends come to The Bahamas to witness this happy event only to not truly capture it all! Usually you only hear the Officiant and the musician, not the bride and groom at a wedding ceremony. You do have the option available to microphone both the bride and groom at an additional cost to allow your guests to hear your exchange of vows. To avoid additional expenses, I recommend you hire a videographer who will microphone the bride and groom for the videotape audio and you will have the entire wedding ceremony including your participation for your guests to enjoy at the reception or at a private viewing. Please note that a microphone provided by the videographer is not for projection at the ceremony, but for the videotape audio only.
Do you recommend getting video as well as photography?
Yes, you will be able to relive all those special moments on your wedding day as they were captured and share them with friends and family. The congratulatory speeches and sentimental wishes from family and friends, along with the songs performed and sung by your musicians. Your favorite songs that are incorporated throughout your video personalizes your wedding day. These are wonderful memories that will last you for a lifetime.
I am having my hair done. Are there any hair styles that I should avoid?
Chances are that most of your photos will be taken outside, even if your ceremony is indoors. We do have trade winds most of the year. This is a good thing to be aware of in regards to veils and "tendrils" around the face that may blow in the wind. It may be a good idea to do a test run on your hair the day before so that you are confident that you feel comfortable and beautiful in the style that you have chosen. If the groom is willing, a little gel and/or spray may be helpful in his hair as well.
What about sunburn; can I still spend time on the beach and enjoy my pre-wedding festivities?
Yes, please be very careful about our Exuma sun! The sun here is strong and you can become burned without realizing it (even on an overcast day or underwater!) White strap marks and sunburned faces do not make the best, memorable wedding photographs.
Some of my wedding guests don't "get along". What shall I do about this?
It is important to let your Wedding Breezes Island Wedding Specialist know that there is a ptential uncomfortable family situation. If the coordinator is advised, she can inform the photographer so they can handle it in a delicate way and avoid any unnecessary embarrassment or hurt feelings on your wedding day.
I tend to run a little late. Is it OK to show up for my wedding on "Island Time"?
NO, NO, NO, & NO! Most weddings are timed so that the final pictures can be taken on the beach at sunset. Although it's true that the guests and photographer will wait for you, the sunset won't! The time scheduled has been carefully arranged to allow for all of the images you are hoping for. Remember, it is not possible to "make up" lost time (especially on a sunset wedding.) We do not have the long "twilight" time that is enjoyed on the mainland (it becomes dark within 10-15 minutes after the sun sets.) Even a fifteen minute delay can impact the outcome of your photography coverage. Also, it is not uncommon for the minister, musicians, and other people helping you with your wedding to have another commitment either before or after your wedding (plus, most of them are paid by the hour and overtime charges may apply). SO...out of respect for their schedule and for the best possible photographs PLEASE be on time!
PHOTOGRAPHY QUESTIONS
What's the best time of day to have my wedding so I can get the nicest possible photos?
Photographically speaking, the best time of day is late afternoon into sunset; this is when the lighting is most flattering. It will be cooler & more comfortable for you and your guests, too. The worst time of day is 10:00am to 2:30pm when the sun is directly overhead. Direct overhead bright sunlight results in highly undesirable photographic lighting conditions, in addition, the temperature is often an uncomfortable 90° (& humid) during the mid-day hours.
We are having a sunset wedding, what time should we start?
Get the exact sunset time for your wedding day; it varies between 5:00 to 8:00 with the shortest days in the winter. Wedding Breezes will evaluate your needs based on the amount of people you have, the size of your photo/video package, if you're seeing each other prior to the wedding, vendor availability etc. Wedding Breezes will then schedule your wedding accordingly (allowing enough coverage time prior to sunset). For instance, if the sun sets at 7:00pm on your wedding day and you choose a 2-hour photo package with 15 - 30 guests and are seeing each other prior then the start time would be 5:45pm. This will allow the most desirable lighting conditions during your ceremony and still allow coverage at sunset time on or near the beach. The sun sets fast in the tropics with very little twilight time. Shortly after the sun sets - there is no longer enough available light for the Photographer or Videographer (event lighting will be needed for your photographs). We don't have the luxury of making up time at the end on a sunset wedding.
How much time should I allow and what photography package should I choose?
The package you choose depends on several factors...
a. Number of people attending - the more guests you have the more coverage you will need. The 36 35mm-photo package is the minimal coverage for the bride and groom only and would not be available for groups.
b. Does your wedding include cake, champagne, limousine, video, etc. - the more "goodies" your wedding includes, the longer the photography takes.
c. Wedding Location. For instance, hotels like the Four Seasons offer so much variety (lush vegetation, beach, golf course) that couples often choose larger packages to cover all the possibilities.
What is 35mm photography?
Technically, 35mm format photography refers to the width of the negative that the camera produces, that is, a 35mm camera produces a small negative - 35mm in width.
For the most part, all of our 35mm format photographers use only the finest 35mm equipment available - Nikon, Cannon, Minolta, etc. These cameras are typically fully automated; the camera itself determines the correct aperture, exposure & flash. As a result, 35mm photography lends itself well to a spontaneous style of photography and is the format of choice for "photojournalistic" style. Automated cameras free the photographer from the burden of adjusting settings manually, thereby enabling them to respond and capture events as they are unfolding. NOTE: Automated settings can be overridden for those times when the experienced 35mm photographer may want the precise control that medium format photographers enjoy. The 35mm photography equipment and film is less costly than their medium format counterparts and the 35mm format benefits from "universal acceptance". That is, ALL retail photo labs process and print from 35mm negatives.
What is "photojournalistic" style of photography?
Photojournalism is a spontaneous style of black & white (sometimes color) photography that has recently become popular. Generally, a photo-journalistic photographer does not stage or pose any shots but works in the "background" capturing the wedding as it unfolds. The photo-journalistic photographer does not "impose" him/herself on the subjects and accepts all of life's "little imperfections". That is, the photo journalistic-photographer takes all photos as they occur, even when the subject may be striking a less than magnificent pose. The photo-journalistic photographer needs to respond quickly, therefore, 35mm automated equipment is the tool of choice for this style of photography and photo-journalistic photographers take a very large volume of photos, knowing in advance that many may not be acceptable. Because photo-journalism has recently become "all the rage", many photographers are compelled to call themselves photo-journalistic photographers when in fact they have very little expertise with this new style of photography. You should know that A Wedding Breeze only hires photo-journalistic photographers who are committed to, and have demonstrated expertise in this new style of photography. This style of photography is much more expensive than any other style of photography.For this reason, we recommend our professional island photographer and if you would like professional photo-journalistic style photographs, to hire a separate photo-journalistic professional photographer solely to capture those moments.
When does my photography coverage start and are pictures taken during the ceremony?
Generally, the coverage starts with the limousine, water taxi or boat arrival (if applicable), entrance of the bride, candid shots of the ceremony, followed by cake, champagne & formals of the Bride & Groom. If you have guests attending, the photographer will do any family and friend combinations that you would like. For sunset weddings, the last ½ hour of coverage is often reserved for the Bride & Groom only on the beach and/or for sunset photos. It is important that you choose the appropriate package that allows time for coverage of these events.
I have certain shots that I would like, when and how should I tell the photographer about them?
A Wedding Breeze will provide you with a list of the "most popular" wedding shots from The Knot. Please send your list of requested shots to A Wedding Breeze and we will provide it to your photographer. Generally, most photographers prefer to review your list prior to the wedding to make sure enough time has been allotted and your package size allows you to get all of the shots you are hoping for. You should assign your list to someone in your wedding party who knows all of your guests to be in charge of "gathering" for each group. If you do not have guests but have some ideas or images you have seen that you would like to share, the photographer is more than happy to look them over and talk to you about them. Of course your wedding will be unique and your images will reflect you and your day. Special requests will be considered and (depending on location, time of day, lighting conditions, cooperation, promptness, and your personalities) every effort will be made to get the specific images you desire.
Can we meet our photographer before the wedding so that he/she can take some of the formal shots before our guests arrive?
At certain locations not only is it possible, the photographers highly recommends the couple meet him/her for some formals of the bride and groom around the grounds before the ceremony. Many couples find it relaxing and helpful to spend some time together beforehand. However, this means that you will need to arrive on time and ready to go at the time scheduled. The number one complaint made by most photographers is tardiness on the part of the bride/groom and/or wedding party. Therefore, if you arrange for "pre-photos", then please be on time! If you are late your photo results will suffer. Please remember that the sunset waits for no one! A Wedding Breeze can help you determine the additional cost based on the extra amount of coverage time needed to fulfill your requests.
I'd like to have the photographer photograph my wedding pictures at two different locations or have them do some pictures in the morning and some at sunset. Is there an extra fee?
Yes - there will be a change of location fee which usually also involves more time added to your coverage. It can be quite an undertaking to move locations when you and your guests need to get in the car and drive. In addition, the photographer has to pack up her equipment (which is substantial.) This is one of those things that sounds easy but can be quite a "momentum" breaker. It almost always takes longer than anticipated. Some photographers usually discourage it as they feel it takes valuable time away from your photography coverage. Splitting the coverage from morning to sunset or another day will require a separate sitting fee. Please consult you're your Wedding Breezes coordinator about the fees required for each specific request.
Can our photographer cover my reception as well?
Most of our weddings in Exuma take place outdoors; as a result, receptions are casual and typically take place immediately following the ceremony and consist of cake cutting and champagne. If you are having a reception after sunset you may want to consider posing your cake and champagne shots beforehand to take advantage of the light of day and the beautiful island scenery. However, if you are having a formal reception and you want photography coverage, additional time and increasing the size of your package are often necessary.
Can I get black & whites as well as color photos?
Each photographer has their own policy on the cost of black and white film and will require a quote. However, some photographers will gladly substitute a roll of your color film for a roll of black and white at no additional charge - you must inform them of this prior to the wedding. Due to the extra time needed and additional expense, the photographers do not offer this substitution on the 1-hour-36 exposure photo package.
How long does it take to get my photographs and /or album?
This varies by thed day you have your wedding. Since there are no photo labs on Great Exuma, all film must be shipped via airplane to Nassau (unless you choose digital photography). Weekends and Holidays may cause an additional delay to the typical 48 hour turn around time. Once your film is processed, our photographers review your pictures to make sure that the colors and exposure are precise. If you are still on the island prior to shipment you may meet with them to make your selections and order any additional prints or albums. If you have already left the island then they will send them to you using your choice of shipping options and your correspondence is done by phone/email and/or mail. Your photographer will go over all of your deliver/proofing options with you on your wedding day (usually at the end of your coverage time). If you are having a reception back home our photographers make the utmost effort to get them to you prior to your home reception event.
Will the photographer sell me the negatives?
Most highly trained professional photojournalistic photographers do not release or sell their negatives. Those that do will charge you more than if you were to order reprints or enlargements directly with them. WHY? Because our recommended photographers are highly trained, experienced professionals and find it necessary to have control of their original work. The color, contrast, and density are significantly affected by who prints the photos so the best photographers don't want to risk their reputation with the possibility of having reprints made somewhere else that might poorly reflect their work. Most 35mm professional island photographers performing tourist destination weddings will be more than happy to offer negatives with their packages.
How do I view and receive my photos?
The procedure for viewing and selecting your photos after your wedding varies by photographer. Some photographers make it a point to meet with you prior to you leaving the island so that you can view photos, design your album and discuss all of your options including individual print prices, enlargements, packages, custom upgraded albums, etc. Other photographers may send you a contact sheet or actual proofs with instructions, price sheets, etc. Your selected photographer will go over their particular procedure with you on your wedding day.
VIDEOGRAPHY QUESTIONS
What is Professional Video?
Technically, professional videography refers to the experience as well as the specs and type of equipment used. Home video camera equipment can be operated with little or no training that will produce less desirable results. Most work is videotaped with broadcast grade, digital cameras. Audio is recorded with a minimum of two wireless microphones: one for the groom and one for the minister to wear. Coverage time of four hours or more includes a production assistant. These video cameras produce a much sharper image and superior color reproduction. Supplemental lighting kits are used whenever necessary and at an additional expense. [Lighting is only used to compliment the video while still maintaining the ambiance of the event.] Cutting edge techniques and various camera support tools are used. Our professional videographer's are experienced and have had some form of education or training in the study of video in order to correctly operate the equipment and become respected as a professional in their field; unlike home video. Our videographer's are generally more experienced artists and continually expand their knowledge by further educating themselves. Most professional videographer's are image specialists that are hired to make you look your best. The finishing work is done in the studio's edit bay. The videotape editor will spend between 3-30 hours putting the polishing touches on the finished product. Upgrades can include Exuma scenery or your own personal favorite photographs that are added to the video. Professional video equipment is extremely expensive. In addition, commercial grade tape is used. To summarize; professional video is one of the most memorable keepsakes you will ever take home from your wedding day. A Wedding Breeze recommends it highly.
What is Journalistic-style Video?
Journalistic-style video offers everything above (see "What is Professional Video?") and more. The biggest difference is the style of the video taken and edited. Journalistic-style video offers a spontaneous style similar to photography that has recently become very popular. These professionals work very hard to capture the wedding as it unfolds in a very contemporary style. The journalistic-style videographer is able to respond quickly, therefore capturing large amounts of footage, knowing in advance that many shots may not be acceptable for the polished production. Deluxe editing is included with the latest techniques like letter boxing, slow motion, black & white and special effects. Journalistic-style video has recently become "all the rage". A A Wedding Breeze contracts with an off-island company to provide journalistic-style video services, which may require a work-permit. For this reason journalistic style video is confirmed only after verifying with the studio that they are available and may take up to 45-60 days advance booking. Wedding Breezes only hires journalistic-style videographers who are committed to, and have demonstrated expertise in this new style of video and this style of videography is much more expensive than the professional style.
How long does it take to get my video?
Our videographers make every effort to have your wedding video ready for you before you leave Exuma. Occasionally wedding videos are mailed directly to you using Fed Ex, DHL or some other trackable method.
A WEDDING BREEZE WEDDING QUESTIONS
What are "Professional Wedding Coordination Services" and "On-Site Wedding Director" and how do they differ from one another?
" Professional Wedding Coordination Services" are separate components that you may select and are available from the A La Carte Menu.
" On-Site Wedding Director" is requesting that your Island Wedding Specialist attend and manage every detail of your wedding to ensure the event runs smoothly. This service is included in Packages. It is NOT included in A-La-Carte Weddings. Therefore, if you are arranging your wedding A-La-Carte "style" and you want an On-Site Wedding Director you need to purchase this separately.
What can I expect from A Wedding Breeze once I secure my wedding date with a deposit?
Once your deposit is received a confirmation letter that includes custom information will be sent to you along with a schedule for a planning conference call. This will help you in the planning and preparation of your wedding day. You may contact A Wedding Breeze with your questions anytime by phone or e-mail. If you get our voicemail, please know that we return calls as soon as feasibly possible. If we are on-site at a wedding or giving our undivided attention to a client that day, we will call you the following day. Once your wedding day arrives, you will receive the same personalized attention.
Is it customary to tip and who should receive a gratuity?
Yes, it is customary and greatly appreciated however it is not mandatory. A gratuity is up to the client's discretion. Usually it is the Officiant, musician, photographer, videographer, hair stylist and anyone else you would like to thank for a job well done.
Do you have any additional advice to help insure a "smooth" wedding day?
Yes, make sure that you are on time to your wedding! In order to create beautiful pictures, the photographer will need to be able to spend the time you deserve and paid for without being rushed. The sun sets fast in the tropics with very little twilight time. Once the sun has set - there is not enough available light to capture the beautiful scenery. Relax! You have put a lot of time and energy into planning the perfect wedding and now that your special day is here, we invite you to enjoy each other and the beauty of the moment - let the professionals at A Wedding Breeze handle the details. |
