Through my lens, I've captured countless couples in the throes of love, witnessed the soaring highs and, sometimes, the frazzled nerves that come with planning a wedding. But as life had it, I too walked down that same aisle, donning both roles: that of a wedding photographer and that of a bride.

My journey has been a whirlwind of emotions, trials, and triumphant moments. In this blog post, I'm here to share my most cherished lessons, the kind that can only be learned through the convergence of these two remarkable worlds. These lessons extend far beyond the realms of photography or wedding planning; they delve deep into the essence of love, celebration, and life itself. So, join me on this enlightening journey as we explore 10 eye-opening insights that will surely resonate with those planning to celebrate their union, or anyone looking to appreciate the beauty of love's many dimensions.

It's not all about you.

When you first get engaged, it's easy to imagine that your wedding day will be all about you and your spouse—your love, your story, your dreams. However, as a seasoned wedding photographer and now bride, I've learned that this is far from the truth. No matter how intimate or grand your celebration, weddings involve more than just the two of you. From the moment that engagement ring slides onto your finger, the world suddenly becomes interested in your love story.

Family and friends can't help but ask about your proposal story, the upcoming bachelor and bachelorette parties, and the wedding date. It's heartwarming to see the excitement and support from loved ones, but it can also be overwhelming. Everyone seems to have an opinion, and they assume they're not only invited but deeply involved in your wedding planning.

As you dive into wedding preparations, it's crucial to maintain open communication with your partner. Things can quickly spiral out of control, and what initially seemed like an intimate affair can transform into a grand spectacle. Your budget might go out the window, and your guest list could triple in size.

To keep your wedding day personal and meaningful to you and your partner, it's essential to drown out the noise of others. Set boundaries around what's important to both of you and focus on your vision. Remember, it's your day, and you have the right to make it your own.

While it's impossible to please everyone, prioritize what matters most to you as a couple. Make time each week to discuss your ideas, desires, and hopes for the big day. This ongoing dialogue will help you stay grounded and true to yourselves amidst the whirlwind of wedding planning.

In the end, your wedding is a celebration of your love story, and it should reflect your unique journey as a couple. Embrace the support and interest from others, but don't forget to stay true to yourselves and do it your way.

It's Expensive .

Let's get real; tying the knot comes with a price tag. In our world today, weddings don't come cheap, with the average cost of a wedding in the UK reaching around £25,000. It's a significant investment, but it's akin to splurging on a new car or putting down a deposit on a house. It's a major life event, and while it may seem like a lot of money, it's an investment in something truly special.

Here's how I see it: when it's all said and done, your funeral will likely cost a similar amount. So why not allocate those funds to celebrate your love while you're alive, surrounded by your loved ones? You're not just throwing a party; you're creating lasting memories to cherish for a lifetime, both for you and those who join in your celebration.

But here's the key: don't go overboard. Set a budget that you and your partner can comfortably manage, and stick to it as closely as possible. It's easy to get caught up in the idea of impressing everyone else, but remember that this day is about you and your partner. Be authentic, do it your way, and stay true to your vision.

While getting married can be expensive, it's an investment in the love and connection you share with your partner. It's a day to celebrate your unique journey, and it's worth every penny when you focus on what truly matters – the love you both share.

It can be triggering.

Planning a wedding is a journey that can stir up a whirlwind of emotions and even resurface past traumas. This is especially true if you're trying to adhere to traditional norms, which may involve navigating uncomfortable relationships with family members or rekindling old conflicts with friends and relatives. It's a time when you'll question who your real friends are, and it can be a challenge to decide on the guest list.

Additionally, disagreements and misunderstandings between you and your partner can arise during the planning process. This can lead to arguments and test your communication and patience with each other. It's essential to remember that this phase will challenge your relationship, but it also has the potential to strengthen your bond.

The key is acknowledging that these emotional triggers are a natural part of the wedding planning process. It's an opportunity for growth as a couple. As you navigate these challenging moments together, you're forging a stronger, more resilient unit. You're not just planning a wedding; you're building a life together as a team.

In the end, it's important to support each other, communicate openly, and remember that you're embarking on a journey together. Embrace the challenges that come your way during wedding planning, knowing that they have the power to make your relationship even stronger and more resilient.

Get the dream dress.

When it comes to your wedding dress, it's one of the most iconic and cherished elements of your big day. It's a symbol of your love story and a reflection of your unique style. While it's tempting to stick to a tight budget and explore all options, there's something truly magical about investing in the dream dress.

I understand the desire to be financially prudent, but let me share a valuable lesson from my own experience. I initially considered budget-friendly alternatives, even purchasing dresses from overseas. However, my mom insisted on the importance of getting a proper wedding dress. And when I stepped into that luxurious, dream wedding dress, it was a feeling like no other.

On your wedding day, wearing the dress of your dreams, you truly get to experience the sensation of becoming the princess you may have envisioned as a child. It's a moment of pure magic and self-expression that can't be replicated.

While it's essential to be mindful of your budget, don't let the allure of big wedding dress shops deceive you into overspending. Explore all the options, including boutique and independent dress shops. As a supplier in the wedding industry myself, I understand the significance of supporting local and independent businesses. It not only enriches your experience but also makes a meaningful impact on someone's year.

Ultimately, your wedding dress is a symbol of your love story, and finding the dream dress can elevate your entire wedding experience. So, don't compromise on this essential element of your big day. Invest in the dress that makes you feel like the bride you've always dreamed of becoming.

Your photographer is your soul mate for the day.

Your wedding photographer is more than just a vendor; they're your companion, confidant, and memory keeper throughout one of the most significant days of your life. They will be there to capture every high and low moment, every emotion, and every intricate detail. Building a strong connection with your photographer is essential because they will bear witness to some of the most intimate moments you'll ever experience.

Think about it: your photographer will be with you from the early preparations, often before you even see your spouse. They'll be there to help you with the final touches, like adjusting your dress or fixing any makeup mishaps. They'll be the ones picking confetti out of your hair and ensuring that every candid moment is preserved.

Your photographer is not just there to take pictures; they're there to support you and ensure your day runs smoothly. They understand the importance of the moments they're capturing and the trust you've placed in them to document your special day.

So, when choosing a photographer, make sure you feel a connection with them. This bond will allow you to relax and be yourself in front of the camera, ensuring that your wedding photos capture the genuine emotions and love that define your day. Your photographer truly is your soul mate for the day, capturing your love story in every frame.

The tiny details don't matter.

In the midst of wedding planning, it's easy to get caught up in the small stuff—choosing the perfect trinkets, obsessing over labels, and meticulously styling every aspect of your big day. This obsession can sometimes extend to the desire to shed those extra pounds in preparation for the wedding. But here's the truth: just like those tiny decorative details, the pressure to achieve a certain weight for your wedding day often fades into insignificance.

On your wedding day, you'll find yourself enveloped in a joyful bubble of love and excitement, and concerns about weight and appearances become secondary. The months of stress and fretting about numbers on the scale suddenly seem unnecessary as you realize how inconsequential these things truly are.

So, if you don't reach your weight loss goals before the big day, don't sweat it. In fact, embracing your natural self, exactly as you are, can lead to some of the most memorable moments. Let go of the need for a specific number on the scale and allow yourself to go with the flow. Whether it's an unexpected rain shower or a minor hiccup in the schedule, remember that these things are just part of the journey.

Ultimately, what matters most on your wedding day is the love you share with your partner and the joy you experience together. Your weight may add charm, but it doesn't define your day. Embrace the spontaneity, enjoy the moment, and let your wedding day unfold naturally—it will be beautiful regardless of the minor imperfections, or whether you reached your desired weight. Love and happiness should take center stage on your special day, not unrealistic expectations.

Love is like a drug.

Your wedding day is a unique experience, unlike any other in your life. It's a day when love takes center stage, and it can feel like you're under the influence of a powerful, intoxicating force.

During my own wedding, I felt like I was in a beautiful trance. It was as if time stood still, and the day had no clear beginning or end. I entered another dimension, observing the events from a cloud, as if I were watching myself from afar. It's a sensation that's difficult to put into words—a blend of euphoria, adrenaline, and pure love.

You might even feel as though you're in a love bubble, surrounded by an aura of positivity and happiness. It's a magical feeling, one that's worth savoring as long as it lasts.

As you embark on this incredible journey of marriage, remember that this feeling of being in love is something to cherish. It's a powerful force that can uplift and inspire you throughout your life together. So, on your wedding day and beyond, embrace the love that surrounds you and make the most of this incredible, almost otherworldly experience. It's a reminder of the beauty and strength of your connection with your partner, and it's a feeling that can last a lifetime if you nurture it.

Don't delay your honeymoon!

When you're caught up in the whirlwind of love on your wedding day, it's natural to want that feeling to last forever. It's like you've entered a love vortex, and you're not ready to step out of it. After all, moments like these are rare and precious, so why not make the most of them?

One of the best ways to extend the magic of your wedding day is by heading straight into your honeymoon. It's an opportunity to continue the celebration, to keep the party going, and to revel in the love and joy that surrounds you. You've just shared a momentous occasion with your partner, and it's only fitting to follow it up with a memorable adventure.

By not delaying your honeymoon, you're essentially prolonging the celebrations and keeping the love alive. It's a chance to escape reality for a while and bask in the euphoria of your newlywed bliss. Because, let's face it, when you eventually return to the routines of everyday life, it can feel a bit anticlimactic.

So, make the most of this special time in your life. Go on your honeymoon right after your wedding day and savor every moment together. It's a beautiful way to transition into married life and keep the magic alive as you embark on this incredible journey together.

Remember why you got married.

Amidst all the wedding planning, stress, and anticipation, it's easy to lose sight of the fundamental reasons you chose to get married. However, it's essential to keep these reasons close to your heart throughout your journey as a married couple.

Take a moment each day to reflect on your partner and the profound love you share. Remind yourself of the qualities and attributes that made you fall in love with them in the first place. Consider the reasons why you committed to spending a lifetime together.

One beautiful way to preserve these sentiments is by keeping a journal or scrapbook of memories. Write down the things you appreciate and admire about your partner. Record special moments and experiences that strengthen your bond. It's a tangible reminder of your love story, something you can revisit whenever you need a dose of inspiration.

Never allow the spark of your love to fade. Continuously nurture your connection by expressing gratitude for your partner and the life you're building together. Remember why you chose forever with them and carry that reason with you throughout your marriage journey. It's these genuine, heartfelt moments of reflection that can help keep the flame of your love burning brightly.

Bring your photos to life!

As a wedding photographer, I've come to appreciate the profound importance of those cherished wedding photos. Long after the wedding day becomes a distant memory, your photographs are your key to reliving the magic. Here's why it's essential to bring your wedding photos to life:

1. Print Your Photos: Don't let your precious memories stay locked away on a USB drive or buried in your computer's digital files. Printing your photos allows you to hold those moments in your hands and display them in your home.
2. Create an Album: Consider getting a professionally designed wedding album. It's a tangible, beautiful keepsake that tells the story of your day in a way that digital images can't. Albums allow you to flip through the pages and relive the joy and emotions of your wedding whenever you wish.
3. Quick Action: Time has a way of slipping by, and procrastination can lead to missed opportunities. The sooner you bring your photos to life through prints or an album, the more likely you are to preserve the memories in their pristine beauty.
4. Regular Reminders: Having an album nearby provides regular reminders of the happiness and love you shared on your wedding day. It's a heartwarming experience to flip through the pages and see your day unfold before your eyes.

In an age where digital photos are abundant but often overlooked, bringing your wedding photos to life ensures that your special day remains vivid and cherished. Don't let your beautiful memories languish in the digital realm; print your photos and create an album to keep your love story alive for years to come.

Are you in the midst of wedding planning? Do not fear, I am here!

If you're in the midst of planning your big day and are feeling a bit overwhelmed by the multitude of wedding vendors and the myriad of offerings, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'd love to be your friendly guide, especially when it comes to wedding photography.

Wedding planning can sometimes feel like a maze, and I'm here to help you navigate it with a smile. Your love story is unique, and it deserves to be captured in a way that's as special as your love itself.

Send me an email or feel free to slide into my DM's with your questions or thoughts. Let's chat, share, and make your special day a beautiful chapter in your love story!