Getting married in England & Wales could be about to change - here’s what couples need to know
If you’re currently deep in the “wedding planning rabbit hole” and wondering what actually happens on the morning of your wedding, don’t worry - you’re not alone.
The good news? Wedding mornings don’t have to be chaotic, rushed, or stressful. In fact, they can be slow, warm, happy little pockets of time, especially if you know what to expect and how to plan for that deliciously relaxed vibe. Many wedding mornings I've had the privilege to be a part of have been this way.
So here’s your step-by-step guide to what really happens on a wedding morning, from a colourful, camera-shy-friendly photographer who has seen a lot (including emotional tears, forgotten buttonholes, and dropped cookies on a very expensive carpet).
How you start the morning massively affects how you feel all day. If you’re calm, comfortable, hydrated and surrounded by your people, the rest of the day tends to follow that energy.
It’s less about perfection and more about creating space to breathe.
Bridal party, groomsmen, parents, best friends… everyone starts trickling in with coffee orders, prosecco, snacks, bags of “emergency bits,” and that cousin who insists on documenting everything for TikTok.
As your photographer, this is when I’ll:
No posing. No pressure. Just real-life loveliness.
While hair and makeup are underway, I’ll gather:
And I’ll photograph them in a way that fits your day’s style — colourful, bold, warm, and you.
Don't worry: I put everything back exactly where I found it, or in a safe place where you can find it all when you need it.
This part of the morning is always so calm. Laughter, excitement, and pampering helps!
How I photograph this part:
This is where I capture real connections - mums helping daughters, best friends hyping you up, someone steaming a dress while also eating a pastry.
Here’s the secret most people don’t tell you:
Hair and makeup running behind is the number one cause of wedding-day stress.
So I build buffer time into your morning.
Ideally:
You deserve a moment to breathe, reflect, and take it all in.
This is usually when the morning shifts from “fun chaos” to “oh wow it’s actually happening.” and your nerves start to kick in.
I’ll capture:
This is also when I make sure to check in with you to make sure you're doing ok, and whether you need anything.
These can be:
They’re always gorgeous and grounding.
A little bubble of emotion before the big moment.
These are not formal couple photos - those come later.
This is just a handful of calm, natural portraits while you’re fresh and glowing.
Think:
No awkwardness. No stiff posing. Just you enjoying the moment.
Shoes on. Tissues grabbed. Someone frantically searching for the car keys.
And then — the moment you step out and the day really begins.
I usually head off at this point so I can get to the venue ahead of you, capture some guests and your partner, and potentially you arriving.
And then we’re off to your ceremony and all the magic waiting for you there.
Because I will forever campaign for stress-free weddings.
Not you. Not your partner. Someone capable and calm.
Wedding mornings are sneaky — people forget to eat and then feel faint later.
Outfits
Shoes
Accessories
Rings
Perfume
Emergency kit
Clutter slows everything down and sneaks into photos.
We’ve done this many times.
We will not let your morning fall apart.
Just ask if there's anything you need - think of us like a bonus bridesmaid!
Wedding mornings don’t need to be stressful — they can actually be one of the most beautiful parts of the whole day. A chance to slow down, connect, and start your celebration with warmth and intention.
If you’re planning a South Wales wedding and want a photographer who brings colour, calm, and a little bit of harmless chaos-management… you know where I am.
Think a creative, animal-loving, story-capturing South Wales photographer is a great fit for your big day? I’d love to chat about your wedding plans and how we can create stunning, candid memories together.
