Recently a friend related to me the nightmare that she encountered what should have been the most wonderful day of her life, her wedding day!  She lamented that between the Photographer, the Videographer and the Wedding Coordinator all of the planning that she had so painstakingly choreographed was for naught.  It seemed that her vision of her wedding day was incongruous with that of her wedding "professionals", leaving her  frustrated and resentful.  Unfortunately, this scenario is played out all too often, so we have gathered together some strategies to help you maintain control.

Experienced wedding professionals can be a  great resource to draw upon when coordinating your wedding.  However the flip side of the coin can occur when egos clash.  For this reason you need to make it clear to those that you are hiring that you are the ultimate authority in the chain of command.  Giving firm guidelines to your wedding "team" can help alleviate problems before they arise.

In advance, give your photographer and videographer the guidelines specified by your wedding venue.  There is nothing worse than an officiate having to stop during the ceremony to remind the photographer that they have a "no picture" policy during the vows etc.  Keeping everyone apprised of the rules can help negate this possibility.

The processional can sometimes be a source of conflict between the wedding coordinator and the photographer.  Often the photographer will want to initiate the start so he can position himself for the best "entry shot".  The problem arises however, when the coordinator feels the start should be her call.  As these professionals generally don't attend the rehearsal, you should remind them on the day of the wedding the order of service that the officiate has specified.

Ensure that the photographer knows exactly how much time is allotted for pictures between the ceremony and the reception.  It can be a source of frustration to keep your guests waiting an inordinate amount of time while your photographer insists on shooting roll after roll to achieve the perfect pose. 

Allow for some flexibility, listen to the suggestions that your pro's have to offer.  As they presumably have your best interest at heart, there may just be a legitimate reason for your coordinator insisting that the cake cutting take place immediately after the soup course.  Perhaps the catering staff wants to have the slices ready to serve following the entree.

Remembering that it is YOU who should occupy the directors chair can help to make your wedding day turn out exactly as you and your groom envisioned it.  So take control early and keep it!