Hot topic: A smooth ceremony

Our experts tackle wedding day disasters and how to avoid common pitfalls

Karina says: We've all heard the horror stories. I've known photographers not to turn up, best men forgetting to download the ceremony music and hired port-a-loos blocked before the ceremony has even begun. The last thing the father-of-the-bride needs is to be wrestling with a plunger on his daughter's special day!

My advice to avoid disasters like these?

Don't take unnecessary risks. Rather than getting your friend to download the music onto a phone, pay that little extra for a professional PA system. There are too many variables when playing the ceremony music, especially for an outside wedding. Often the volume isn't loud enough for the guests to hear, let alone give the bride her cue!

Do ask your trusted suppliers for recommendations. Kent has a wonderful network of people, most of who will have worked with each other at some point. I've worked with some wonderful photographers, I know the shots they like to capture so we're able to work together to make sure we don't get in each other's way and they're less afraid of telling me if I accidentally do. Most importantly, they turn up! As for the big occasion, investing in an on-the-day coordinator or toastmaster means everything is completely under control behind-the-scenes so you can enjoy your it, stress free.

Karina O'Donnell, Independent celebrant
www.celebrant-uk.co.uk