Hi CL,
We also signed with Pei Chen. 3 days are required for Taiwan photoshoot. First day - choose gown. Second day - photo-shoot and third day - photos selection. My response is as follows:-
1) gown selection should be the day prior to photoshoot. Coz they will measure your body figures and make modification to the gowns that you selected.
2) discussion of photo-shooting style and make up should be one day before. Probably it's the same day as gown selection. They will jot down your request and idea, and plan the photoshoot one day before.
3) photo-shooting day should be a long day. The photo selection shall be the next day after photo-shooting.
4) I remember you need to prepare transport cost for the driver and some makeup products that are not covered under the package. They will explain all to you before you go. They don't hide hidden costs from you. For my case, they repeated many times of the additional costs that will be incurred such as driver costs and makeup products.
5) Yes, your makeup artiste is very important. Please top up the monies coz they will help you to change your husband and yours' makeup and hairstyles along the journey. They can't bring you back to the bridal shop coz the destination take hours to reach.
6) I haven't taken mine but I remember shipping costs are about $200 - $300. I got friends who flied there and brought back themselves.
7) payment are on progressive. It usually require pay up to 85 % before photo-shooting. 10% ~ 15% will be paid when you receive album. Don't worry, I pay more and faster than payment schedule and they still service us very well. They appears very professional and you can talk to them if you don't feel comfortable to pay more.
8) I think most important things to note is weather. Try to avoid raining season for photo-shooting. Good weather will result in good photos as well. Please also be prepared your casual wears and items (道具)used for photo-shooting. Think about the style of photo-shooting you like... Cute, romantics, impressive or etc. Please also trust the photographer and be relax. Must enjoy the day of photo-shooting
Wish you have a fun photo-shooting day
