Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Long before the week of the wedding, but after you have received all your responses, sit down and determine exactly what groupings you would like to have for the pictures.
Step2
Take the list to the photographer you will be using. If a family friend or relative is taking the pictures for you, be sure to meet with the person for this exact purpose only. Do not mention this list in casual passing.
Step3
Devise an organizational system that will help each person know what groupings they will be in. If you think you will be able to just call out who you need when, think again! This absolutely will not happen!
Step4
An organizational such as color coded cards may be a good idea. Then the photographer can say, “OK, everyone with a green card, please come to the front of the room,” etc.
Step5
Try to take the pictures in a confined space with only one entrance and doors that close. Place a friend who is self-assured but not offensive at the door. Give that person very strict instructions not to let anyone out of the room until after the photo session has ended.
Step6
Plan the photo session for before anyone eats. This session should not take more than thirty minutes.
Step7
Having some light refreshments in the room with the photo shoot may be a good idea. Food generally encourages people to stay in a location and relaxes them. Just do not serve anything that is greasy or crumbly.
Step8
At the end of the rehearsal, explain your organizational system to everyone and exactly how the procedure will work. Emphasize that you will need everyone in the room the entire time, whether their card color has been photographed or not. Tell everyone to use the restroom before they leave the church if necessary and to go straight to the photo room as soon as they arrive at the location of the rehearsal dinner.
