Your Top Wedding FAQs – Part 2

#16 Would You Suggest Closing the Bar During the Reception?

While an open bar is a popular choice, some couples choose to close it during speeches or the first dance to keep the focus on those key moments. At Factory51, we offer tailored beverage packages or consumption tabs, including an option to pause service if desired.

#17 Does a First Look Make Sense for Our Day?

A ‘first look’ (where the couple sees each other before the ceremony) is a personal choice. It can help ease nerves and allow more time for photos, meaning you get to enjoy more of your cocktail hour with guests and reception.

#18 Should All the Bridesmaids Arrive at the Same Time for Hair and Makeup?

Ideally, yes! Having everyone arrive together ensures a smooth schedule and avoids last-minute rushes. Many bridesmaids use this as an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing morning with the bridal party, complete with champagne and music.

#19 Where Should I Get Dressed on My Wedding Day?

If you’re getting married at Factory51, we suggest nearby accommodation or a private residence with ample natural light for those perfect getting-ready shots. Many brides book boutique hotels or Airbnbs in Brisbane to stay close to the venue.

#20 How Will My Bridal Party Process in for the Ceremony?

#21 Do We Need Ushers at Our Ceremony?

While not essential, ushers can be a friendly face to greet guests and distribute ceremony programs. If you have a specific seating plan for your ceremony, ushers can also ensure guests are seated accordingly, making the ceremony flow more smoothly.

#22 When Should We Do Family Photos?

Family photos are best taken immediately after the ceremony while everyone is still present and looking their best. Appoint someone ahead of time to help gather family members and work with the photographer through the shot list. Couples generally have photos against our exposed brick or washed concrete walls inside, or at the front of our venue for a stylish yet timeless backdrop.

#23 Should We Provide Meals for Wedding Vendors on the Day?

Yes, it’s a good idea to provide meals for key vendors who will be working throughout your wedding, such as your photographer, videographer, and entertainment. At Factory51, we offer vendor meals as part of our packages, ensuring your suppliers stay energised.

#24 Do We Have to Gift Wedding Favours?

Whilst wedding favours, also known as bonbonniere, are a lovely gesture, they are not a necessity. A decade ago, most couples would gift favours, but these days, it’s really up to the bride and groom! If you do choose to provide them, consider something meaningful or useful, like mini bottles of olive oil, wine, local honey, or personalised sweets that can double as place cards. Otherwise, your gifts may just end up in the trash!

Check out Will & Hannah’s sweet ‘his and hers’ treat bags below!

#25 Do I Need a Content Creator for My Wedding?

With social media playing such a huge role in modern weddings, many couples are now hiring a dedicated content creator to capture behind-the-scenes moments in real time. Unlike traditional photographers and videographers, a wedding content creator focuses on candid, short-form content that’s ready to share on Instagram, TikTok, or Reels within hours of your big day. If you love the idea of having polished, social-media-ready footage while still enjoying professional photography for the long term, a content creator could be a great addition to your vendor team.

#26 Do We Need Welcome Bags for Out-of-Town Guests?

Welcome bags can be a thoughtful touch, especially if you have guests travelling from interstate or overseas. You may like to consider including local treats, a list of places to go and things to see in Brisbane, and a personalised note to make them feel extra special. Alternatively, appoint someone who can act as a tour guide, chauffeur, or be a general point of contact for any out-of-town guests. With everything you have to do for the wedding, it’s one less thing to worry about!

#27 Are Place Cards a Must?

Place cards are incredibly helpful for seated receptions. Not only do they guide guests on where to sit – rather than leaving it to a chaotic scramble – but they also act as a map for functions staff to serve dietary meals to the right people. For most seated receptions, we highly recommend place cards. If you’re having a micro wedding (under 20 people), or only have a couple of people with dietary requirements that can be pointed out easily, then it would be okay to forego place cards.

#28 How Do I Politely Tell Guests My Wedding Is Adults-Only?

Communicating an adults-only wedding can be tricky, but clarity is key. Consider using phrasing like “We love your little ones, but this will be a child-free celebration” on your invitations or wedding website. Word-of-mouth through family and bridal party members can also help set expectations.

#29 When Should the RSVP Reply Card Be Due?

Setting an RSVP deadline 3-4 weeks before your wedding allows time for final guest counts and catering adjustments. At Factory51, we work closely with couples to finalise numbers and dietary requirements two weeks ahead of the big day to ensure a flawless dining experience. We also understand that life happens, and do our best to accommodate late number changes or dietary updates.

#30 Who Should Give the Toasts?

Traditionally, speeches are given by the father of the bride, the groom, and the best man, but modern weddings allow for more flexibility. Brides, bridesmaids, and close friends are also welcome to take the mic! Factory51 provides a seamless audio-visual setup to ensure every word is heard.

Check out our detailed post on Mastering Wedding Speeches and Toasts.