What to do about time?

I just did a wedding yesterday. I set up the times and they ran so BEHIND! like atleast1.5-2 hours from when the start time was. how do you guys handle this situation. I ended up getting great shots inbetween the rain, but at the dance i was like we still have this shot to be taken, blah blah blah. then the dance was supposed to start at 7 and i was to be done by 8. it started at 8 and i didnt get out till 9. any suggestions or how tos would be appreciated. I really like to offer every shot, but when things get put off due to them not being ready do i tell them i am done at 8 so or do i take the shots and work late?

thanks

mrs jb

Really depends on the time alotted in your package. If you've committed unlimited time than there's not much you can do. If, however, your package includes a set amount of time and they go over, you should have an hourly "overtime" rate. That way they can choose whether they wnt you to stay or not. If they decide they want you to stay, then you feel like you are compensated (rather than take advantage of).

I have three packages: 4 hours, 8 hours, and unlimited. I make sure to remind the bride of their timeframe when we have our final consultation, and let the know that if we run into a crunch, they can decide to keep me a little longer for $xxx/hr. Abut 1/2 hour before my time's up (if they're approachable), I let the B&G know that I'm getting close to my time, and aske if there are any other shots they woule like me to take. That gives them a chance to quickly cut the cake, etc.

It's not your job as the photographer to make sure that everything runs on schedule (unless you're the reason everything's running late)...

thanks for the quick reply. my package included 1 hour of reception & 1 hour of dance. Being the dance started 1 hour late i just finished and left late. I didnt have set up an hourly fee. Very good ideas. thanks very much!

I do my packages in terms of time, it starts whenever they first want me and the clock never stops while i'm there. If things are going to run over time I warn them and tell them i'm happy to stay if they want to pay for it. My contract spells this out, and specifies the overtime rate.