When I first started out in weddings back in 2013, creating a makeshift studio on location very quickly became the norm.
I was used to working in my own relaxing environment, with plenty table space, good lighting, a peaceful vibe & a controlled temperature. I soon realised the challenges working on location may bring…
Often, I would arrive at peoples homes or venues to find I had little to no space to set up, and be faced with little to no natural light, and have to battle through a multitude of doors or flights of stairs to get there.
One of the biggest challenges I find to date is working in summer. You may think its impossible for it to be ‘too hot’ in Aberdeenshire, but with July / August temperatures sometimes hitting 26/27 degrees, no air conditioning, while adding up to 15 people in one small hotel room at once, you’ll soon find it becomes unbearable.
Some venues are really good at recognising the needs of suppliers during morning prep, and do make things that bit more comfortable by providing fans, which really can make a difference. Without proper ventilation & cooling, it really can be a nightmare applying makeup while your client is pouring of sweat right in front of your very eyes.
Some venues even go beyond just applying fans, and actually provide bridal parties with a separate prep rooms for getting ready. These are so welcomed if there isn’t a decent sized designated bridal suite already.
The wedding venue I visit the most is Logie Country House, which is situated just outside Inverurie, Aberdeenshire. They have an enormous bridal suite, with its own separate powder room. In there is a vanity unit for hairstyling, a large window providing great lighting, a decent size table, and best of all, adjustable bar stools, meaning when I work there, I don’t need to drag my own chair with me.
I recently counted how many weddings I have done at Logie Country House & if my tally is correct, it currently stands at just over 110, so you can take it from me that they know how to look after bridal parties (and suppliers too!)
Another venue which has made a special effort to be ‘supplier friendly’ is Raemoir House in Banchory, Aberdeenshire. They recently converted one of their bedrooms into what is now called ‘The Henhoose’. In this room, they have decorated it beautifully, and made it bright and airy. They too have an adjustable barstool, and fans to hand!
If you are a summer bride & worried about heat spoiling your hair or makeup, there are steps you can take to minimise the impact:
- Ensure you have spoken to your venue in advance to ensure they either have aircon, and if not, check they can provide fans.
- Have a pressed powder with you for your handbag so you can blot/retouch any shine as the day goes on.
- Enquire about after ceremony touch ups. Usually always worthwhile on a hot day!
- Do your best not to touch your face, blow your nose by grabbing the tip (I see this happen all the time!) and avoid steaming dresses once your makeup is applied.
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