The bride's dress and ceremony decor can set the right atmosphere for a wedding. A master of ceremonies can also play a pivotal role.
Lee says couples should have at least one meeting with potential MCs. 'I ask them about how they met and I listen to their love story,' he says. Finding out other details about their lives and any past adventures or trips helps Lee understand the couple better. He may also ask to meet the best man and maid of honour with the couple, and then separately later.
'Sometimes I will meet the whole bridal party and become friends with them, which helps to establish a relationship,' explains Lee. 'If they or the best man have any surprise performances or games planned, I need to know.'
Lee suggests meeting the couple about a month before the wedding. If the meeting is too far in advance, the wedding programme or other important guests may not be finalised. The later the meeting, the easier it is to make thorough preparations.
Once you have chosen an MC, Lee recommends booking him or her about three to six months in advance. 'But for those good wedding dates, you need to act more in advance,' he says.
As a professional MC may cost HK$5,000 and up, some couples will want to save money and ask a friend to compere the event.