Questions on Wedding Essentials

How many wedding cars do we need? The church is only half a mile away from where I'm getting ready, but I've got three bridesmaids. My parents will also be with me on the morning of the wedding. We don't want to make a mistake, but equally don't want to spend lots of the budget on transport? Jessica, Henley-on-Thames
Wedding transport can quickly add up and remember, too, that nobody sees the cars arrive as guests will already be seated. As the church is so close, you could just hire one car. It could transport the bridesmaids and your mother to the church, and then come back to pick up you and your father. Just make sure you allow plenty of time for two journeys.
Related Debrett's Links: Transport, How Many Cars?, Arriving at the Ceremony

Do we need to hire a wedding DJ? My fiancé has a great music collection, and we are trying to save area where we can do it ourselves. Can we just plug in an iPod and run a playlist? Sam, Essex
As long as you hire the right equipment, and have a back-up mp3 player, then there's no reason why you can't do it yourself. Brief one of the ushers to be in charge - someone needs to know when to hit play!
Related Debrett's Links: Reception Music, Discos

What time should our photographer arrive/leave on the wedding day? Harriet, Harrogate
This depends on the package, so carefully look through what's on offer. The most expensive options will usually provide a photographer to be with the bride while she's getting ready, and stay until the bride and groom go away. Cheaper options will offer less time. Make sure that you check what time they plan on leaving - many couples forget to ask and find themselves without a photographer for key moments such as the meal, speeches and first dance.
Related Debrett's Links: Photography, Key Moments

Quite a few people are helping us out with our wedding; friends are arranging the flowers and making the cake, another friend is compiling music for the reception, and my husband to be's brother is lending us his car. Someone has told me that all these people should be thanked, and given presents, after the speeches at the reception. Is this correct? Harriet, Winchester
You do not need to give presents after the speeches at the reception - some couples choose to give thank you presents at appropriate moments before the big day, others wait until they are home from honeymoon. It is essential that you show your gratitude, but make sure that you give more generous presents to those who have helped out the most.
Related Debrett's Links: Tips and Presents, Thanking the Team