Mike Larkan’s Professional Tips & Tricks
From navigating Melbourne’s notoriously unpredictable weather to figuring out what I’ll wear on the day, the fine details matter.
Here are the answers to some of the practical, day-of logistics so you can feel completely confident about how everything will unfold behind the scenes.
When do we meet up?
Our meeting schedule is quite flexible and largely up to you, though we do need to meet at least once to lodge your paperwork a minimum of one month before your wedding date. We can catch up anytime after you officially book my services, and I am more than happy to accommodate your schedule by meeting on either weekdays or weekends.
What happens if it rains?
Given Melbourne’s notoriously unpredictable weather, I always highly suggest having a solid wet-weather backup plan in place so you can stay stress-free. As the weatherman always suggests, it is best to be prepared, so we will work together ahead of time to ensure our alternative option is just as beautiful and seamless as the original setup.
Do you travel outside Melbourne?
Yes, I absolutely love hitting the road to celebrate your big day in some of Victoria’s most stunning regions. I regularly travel out to the gorgeous wineries and venues across the Yarra Valley, the Mornington Peninsula, and the Bellarine Peninsula to officiate ceremonies.
What do you wear?
I always aim to look sharp and blend seamlessly into the background of your beautiful photos, so I usually wear a classic suit and tie. Of course, if you are planning a more relaxed or themed celebration and prefer me to dress down or match a specific style, just let me know and I will happily adapt to fit your dress code.
What time do you get to the ceremony?
I always arrive at your venue at least 30 to 45 minutes prior to the ceremony beginning. This gives me plenty of time to set up the audio equipment, touch base with your venue coordinator and suppliers, and welcome your arriving guests so that everything runs smoothly from the moment you step onto the aisle.
Do you conduct same-sex weddings?
Yes, absolutely and without hesitation. I proudly and wholeheartedly support marriage equality, and it is a true honour to help every couple celebrate their love story and commit to their future together.
What are the four golden rules of marriage?
To build a lifelong partnership, I always encourage couples to follow four simple golden rules: don’t lie, keep your promises, argue productively, and always play nice. If you can commit to these core ideas, your relationship will never go anywhere but forward.