A Photographer’s Guide to Planning a Wedding
Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences of your life. From selecting the perfect venue to ensuring every detail reflects your love story, the journey is as meaningful as the day itself. As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing countless celebrations, and over time, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes wedding planning smooth and stress-free. Here’s a guide from my perspective to help you plan your dream wedding in the UK.
Step 1: Start with Your Vision
Every great wedding begins with a vision. Sit down with your partner and discuss the type of wedding you both want. Consider the following questions:
Do you want a grand celebration or an intimate gathering?
What season or month feels special to you?
Is there a specific theme or style you’d like to incorporate (e.g., rustic, modern, vintage)?
Your vision will serve as the foundation for every decision you make, from choosing the venue to hiring vendors.
Step 2: Set Your Budget
The budget is one of the most crucial aspects of wedding planning. Determine how much you can afford to spend and allocate funds to each element, such as the venue, catering, attire, décor, and photography. Keep in mind that:
Photography is an investment in memories. Your wedding photos will be the tangible reminders of your special day.
A rough rule of thumb is to allocate 10-15% of your budget to photography and videography.
Step 3: Choose the Right Venue
The UK is home to a stunning array of wedding venues, from historic castles and stately homes to chic urban spaces and picturesque countryside barns. When selecting your venue:
Consider the lighting and space. Natural light makes for gorgeous photos, so venues with large windows or outdoor spaces are ideal.
Visit the venue at the same time of day as your ceremony to understand how the light will affect your photos.
Think about logistics like guest capacity, accessibility, and accommodations for out-of-town guests.
Step 4: Book Your Photographer Early
Nick Baskerville Wedding Photographer
The best photographers often get booked up to 18 months in advance, so securing your photographer early is essential. Here’s how to choose the right one:
Look for a style that resonates with you. Do you prefer candid, documentary-style photos or posed, editorial shots?
Meet with potential photographers. Chemistry and trust are key—you’ll be spending a lot of time together on your wedding day.
Ask to see full wedding galleries to ensure consistency across their work.
Step 5: Book Other Key Vendors
Aside from your venue and photographer, there are several key vendors to book early:
Wedding Dress Shopping
Wedding Dress by the Bridal Dress Company
Begin your search 9-12 months before the wedding to allow time for fittings and alterations.
Bring a trusted friend or family member to help you decide.
Consider the venue and theme of your wedding when choosing your dress.
Florist
Book a florist 6-9 months in advance.
Discuss seasonal flowers to match your wedding date and colour palette.
Ask about bouquet preservation options if you want to keep a memento.
Band vs DJ
Decide on the type of music experience you want: live music (band) or a broader selection of songs (DJ).
Book entertainment 9-12 months in advance, especially for popular performers.
If possible, attend a live performance or ask for video samples before booking.
Caterer
If your venue doesn’t provide catering, book a caterer 9-12 months ahead.
Schedule a tasting session to finalise your menu.
Consider dietary requirements and allergies of your guests.
Step 6: Plan Your Timeline
A well-structured timeline ensures that your day runs smoothly and allows your photographer to capture every important moment. Key tips:
Allocate time for getting-ready photos. These often include heartfelt moments with family and friends.
Plan for a first look (if you’re having one) or time for couple portraits between the ceremony and reception.
Sunset photos are magical in the UK, so check the sunset time and plan a short break for golden-hour portraits.
Step 7: Personalise the Details
It’s the little details that make your wedding uniquely yours. As a photographer, I’ve noticed that personalised touches not only enhance the experience for your guests but also make for stunning photos. Consider:
Custom signage and stationery.
Unique table settings or favours that reflect your story.
Incorporating meaningful elements, such as heirlooms, into your attire or décor.
Step 8: Prepare for the Weather
The UK’s weather can be unpredictable, but don’t let that dampen your spirits. Instead:
Have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies or receptions.
Invest in stylish umbrellas for you and your bridal party.
Embrace the atmosphere—a bit of rain can add a romantic touch to your photos.
Step 9: Trust Your Vendors
You’ve chosen your vendors for their expertise, so trust them to do their jobs. Your photographer, in particular, will guide you through the day, helping to capture the moments you’ll cherish forever.
Step 10: Relax and Enjoy Your Day
On your wedding day, the most important thing is to be present and enjoy every moment. Trust in the planning you’ve done and let go of any small hiccups. The real magic lies in the love and joy shared with your partner, family, and friends.
Final Thoughts
As a wedding photographer, my goal is to tell your love story through timeless, beautiful images. By planning carefully and working with trusted vendors, your wedding day will be everything you’ve dreamed of—and more. If you’re still looking for a photographer who can capture your day in a way that feels authentically you, feel free to reach out. I’d be honoured to be part of your journey.
Happy planning!
Some of my favourite suppliers to work with:
Venues: Crown & Thistle, Abingdon-on-Thames
Wedding Dress: Nicole Mae’s Bridal
Wedding Planning & Coordinator: Jessica Brown
Flowers: Go tell the Bees
Catering: Ray Mekhis
Celebrant: Beth Hale