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Laura and Fabrizio’s Pendley Manor Wedding
Laura and Fabrizio’s Pendley Manor Wedding
Laura and Fabrizio got married in September and their wedding was a proper Italian celebration.
The day for me started at Fabrizio’s parents’ house where I photographed him, his brothers and his parents getting ready. Enzo and Mel - Fabrizio’s brothers, were great fun and ever so welcoming. We then drove to St. Joseph’s church in Chalfont St Peter where they got married and we headed over to Pendley Manor for the celebrations.
The speeches were hilarious, the meal delicious and the end of their wedding was spectacular - a fireworks display.
It was a pleasure to photograph this wedding alongside my friend and fellow photographer - Colin Lavery.
Where to next?
Check out Ruth and Dan’s Bury Court Barn Wedding here.
2 Days in Prague - Street, Landscape and Wildlife Photography
2 Days in Prague - Street, Landscape and Wildlife Photography
2 days, 1 night, approximately 60,000 steps, 6 lovely meals and some great opportunities for photography sum up my recent trip to Prague perfectly. It was kind of a last-minute trip and I was torn between Amsterdam, Paris and Prague. I’m glad I went to Prague. The Czech capital turned out to be a gem for all genres of photography I’m interested in.
I visited some of the tourist hotspots but also wandered off to not so popular parts of Prague and got lost on purpose. On my second day I found a local attraction - the beaver looking like animals - nutria, that live on the banks of the The Vltava river. I spent quite some time trying to get close to them with my 35mm lens and my patience paid off in the end.
The old trams were another thing I loved about the historic capital.
At the end of my second day I went to Prague castle and climbed the 280+ steps to the top. It was so worth it - the views from the top were breathtaking.
I’d love to return in the future.
How Much Does A Wedding Photographer Cost in 2025?
A broad question with a broad answer. In this article I will attempt to answer this question as best as I can. I will explain what factors play a role in wedding photographers’ pricing and give you an idea of how much does a wedding photographer actually cost. Let’s dive in.
What goes into wedding photographers’ pricing?
Pricing in wedding photography isn’t as straight forward as you might think. After all photography is an art and as every art, it is subjective, so how do we price art?
To give you an idea, a typical full-day wedding photography package could range anywhere between £500 and £5,000 in the vast majority. Having said that, of course you might find somebody who will charge less than £500 and there are photographers out there who charge more than £5,000. A 10-fold difference from the bottom to the top range. You might be asking yourself what causes this and how do wedding photographers actually determine their pricing? The answer might be not so simple.
Rationally thinking I would probably say that things such as equipment cost, travel cost, expertise and experience are the main factors. Especially experience. Having said that, I know a wedding photographer toward the end of his career, who charges £900 for a full-day coverage. This is where pricing in wedding photography becomes a little more subjective and is determined by more than experience, equipment, travel costs and skill.
Supply and demand
First of all, as with any product or service, there is a certain level of supply and demand which always influences the price of the product or service to a certain degree. Marketing and especially the way a certain photographer is perceived can have a huge impact on their pricing as well. As is with most things in life, you get what you pay for - meaning, more expensive photographers tend to be of higher quality, although not always. You can stumble upon great wedding photographers who are in the beginning of their careers and still not charging what they should be charging. It’s always worth shopping around.
You might stumble upon a photographer who charges £3,500 for a full day coverage, and you might be thinking how the hell is that possible? Art. It’s subjective. You might not like someone’s work, but there might be many people who love it and are willing to pay the asking price so their wedding gallery is produced in the photographer’s signature style.
As a photographer you look around you, set a price you think is reasonable for the service you offer and if people are happy to pay it, great. It means you’re doing something right. As your career progresses you hopefully develop as a photographer, you expand your skills, knowledge, experience and expertise and should charge more. As you can see in the example I gave with the photographer who is towards the end of his career and only charges £900, this isn’t always the case.
Marketing skills
The marketing skills a photographer has or outsources to professionals play a critical role in their pricing. Being able to market yourself well you get exposure to more couples, which leads to more enquiries, higher individual demand and ultimately, higher pricing. I know of great photographers who have been in the industry more than 10 years but only charge the average, and I know of wedding photographers in the beginning of their careers who charge more than the “national average”.
Wedding photographer’s process from start to finish
Pre-wedding chat/call/in-person meet (1-2 hours)
Travel time to get to your wedding (varies)
Photographing your wedding (8-12 hours)
Travel time to get back home (varies)
Selecting the best images to edit (a couple of hours)
Editing your wedding photos (up to a week)
Delivering your photos (a couple of hours)
In total a wedding photographer might spend around 50 hours on each wedding. If the average full day wedding package is £1,500, this equals to just over £30 an hour.
What does the pricing of a photographer indicate?
As I mentioned above, you usually get what you pay for and higher price does normally mean higher perceived quality. After all, if a wedding photographer set their price at £5,000 and nobody paid it for a year, they would decrease the price and wouldn’t be at £5,000 any longer. But if people keep paying it consistently, it should mean that the photographer is indeed worth £5,000. Again, you might not like their particular style or work so much, but there might be many other people who do and are willing to pay to get it.
Generally speaking, photographers who charge more tend to do less weddings than photographers who charge less. I only know one photographer who charges £5,000 and he doesn’t take more than 20 weddings a year. I also know a photographer who charges under £1,000 and does around 60 weddings a year. What does that mean for you? Quality over quantity. Photographers who charge more typically devote more time to each couple and ultimately provide a better experience. It’s one of the reasons I only take on 25 weddings a year. I want to be able to connect with each couple, meet with them in person if I can, and also it means that I don’t have to rush the editing which has a crucial role in the outcome.
What do you get for your money?
In this article I’ve chosen to focus on a basic full-day wedding photography package. This will typically include:
Pre-wedding consultation (chat, video-call, or a face to face meeting - I always prefer the latest)
8 - 12 hours of coverage, normally from your preparations until the first dance
A good amount of photos, edited and delivered in an online gallery
Most photographers also offer extras such as:
Coverage until the end
Second photographer
Wedding album
Quick edit
Print packages
Engagement session
How much should you spend on a wedding photographer?
It depends on your budget. Set a realistic amount aside for photography - £1,500 to £3,500. If your budget allows it, go higher than that. According to Hitched’s National Wedding Survey, 40% of couples in 2023 spent between £1,500 and £3,000 on photography.
Your photos will be the main way to relive the emotions from your wedding so you shouldn’t compromise on the quality of your photographer. Find someone whose work you love and you’d be happy if your wedding gallery is in their style and book them as soon as you can.
Where to next?
How to pick your wedding venue and why is it the most important step in wedding planning? Find out here.
Ashley and Adam’s Hyde Park Proposal
Before their proposal
Ashley and Adam - what a lovely couple and what a gorgeous proposal to photograph. Adam contacted me a few weeks before he was due to depart on a business trip to London from the US. He had everything figured out apart from the exact spot of the proposal. After long consideration he settled on the bridge at the bottom of Hyde Park.
Ashley arrived in the UK at the end of the week when Adam was done with his work arrangements and their plan was to have a week in London as a getaway. Little did Ashley know Adam planned to propose in the beginning of their week so they can spend the rest of the time away celebrating as a newly engaged couple.
On the day
The location was tricky. I arrived half an hour before the agreed time and observed for a while. It was empty for a while and then a group of people started feeding the gulls and ducks. You can probably guess what happened next. More birds and more people came, which crowded the bridge and certainly got me a little worried about our plan.
Luckily just as Adam and Ashley finished their breakfast in the cafe next to the bridge, the people went and there was our golden opportunity. They walked to the end of the bridge, Adam dropped on one knee, she said yes and we then spent an hour or so walking around the park.
Gallery
Where to next?
Check out Alexandra and Miguel’s Big Ben Proposal here.
4 Wedding Venues To Get Married In Folkestone
Getting Married in Folkestone?
Are you from Folkestone or nearby? Why look for for venues further than your doorstep when there are some great choices literally around the corner. Closer venue means you travel less, your guests get to your venue much easier, it’s really easy to deal with and you can potentially save some money along the way.
The venue is probably the most important part of your wedding planning which is why most couples book the venue first. Once you have this sorted you can then look for more local suppliers to the venue. The venue will, to a degree, set the vibe for your wedding and also have a massive role in what your photos might look like.
There are plenty lovely wedding venues to pick from in the Folkestone area and below are 4 of my favourite.
Lympne Castle
Capacity: 90 seated, 130 total
Starting price: not disclosed
Distance from Folkestone Town: 8.5 miles, ~ 17 minutes drive
A Medieval Castle, a historic landmark in the village of Lymph, Kent, above the Romney Marsh. Located on 139 acres of beautiful English countryside, spattered with ancient Roman ruins overlooking the English Channel.
Lympne Castle is in the heart of Kent, making it the perfect location for one-of-a-kind wedding celebration. The castle has a rich history dating back to Roman times and has been a venue for hospitality since the 12th century. With its unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, the castle offers a truly unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.
Visit Lympne Castle’s website here.
The Old Kent Barn
Capacity: 150 seated, 250 total
Starting price: not disclosed
Distance from Folkestone Town: 5.8 miles, ~ 12 minutes drive
This charming 250-year-old barn was originally used to house cattle and hay, and now, after being transformed by the Simmons Family, it’s one of the most magical, barn wedding venues in Kent.
Recognised locally, regionally and nationally for wedding and venue team, The Old Kent Barn are 5-time winners of the Kent Wedding Awards, double consecutive winners of The British Wedding Awards and 4-time winners of The Wedding Industry Awards.
Visit The Old Kent Barn’s website here.
Hayne House
Capacity: 120 seated, 150 total
Starting price: not disclosed
Distance from Folkestone Town: 5.6 miles, ~ 16 minutes drive
Hayne House, a family-run, exclusive-use, countryside wedding venue with a luxury purpose-built Orangery. Set in a picturesque private estate, couples have voted Hayne House as one of the best Kent wedding venues.
Visit Hayne House’s website here.
The Castle Westenhanger
Capacity: 120 seated
Starting price: £7580
Distance from Folkestone Town: 8.1 miles, ~ 14 minutes drive
A unique and romantic wedding venue steeped in history and bursting with charm. The fairytale medieval castle in nestled in the beautiful Kent countryside and offers exclusive use on your special day.
The Castle Westenhanger has two spacious dressing areas on the ground floor and first floor of the Manor House, allowing you and your partner to get ready at the venue while remaining completely separate. The Elizabeth Suite and The Discovery Room have recently been renovated to look spectacular in your wedding photos while ensuring you feel relaxed, comfortable and at home.
Visit The Castle Westenhanger’s website here.
Where to next?
Don’t tell anyone, but… I always stay until later at local weddings. If you’re looking for a Folkestone wedding photographer, click here.
Top 7 Locations to Propose in London According to a Proposal Photographer
Straight to the point, I present you my list of the top 7 locations to propose in London. This list is based on personal preference mostly which I’ve developed as a proposal photographer in London. Read further to find out more about each location and why I think it deserves a spot on this list.
1. Kyoto Garden - my personal favourite
2. Big Ben (or the arch beneath Westminster Bridge)
3. Primrose Hill
4. Italian Gardens
5. Tower Bridge
6. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden
7. Millennium Bridge
Kyoto Garden - My Personal Favourite
Kyoto Garden is a gem of a spot for proposals, situated within Holland Park in London. It’s usually not too busy and offers a lovely setting for an intimate proposal. I fell in love with Kyoto Garden from the moment I saw it for the first time. I enjoyed a cup of coffee on one of the benches at the park while I was waiting for my couple to arrive as they were running a little late. The garden is beyond tranquil and is the perfect spot if you’re looking to propose in London, love nature and prefer a more intimate environment.
2. Big Ben (or the arch beneath Westminster Bridge)
Looking for an iconic location within London? The arch across the Big Ben is a 10/10 for the task. Situated in the heart of London, the arch beneath Westminster bridge is a surprisingly convenient and not as busy as one would imagine for a proposal. Let me explain. The area is busy indeed, but the actual spot itself not so much. There might be a small queue of people lined up to take photos at the iconic spot but everyone is waiting for their turn and not spoiling other people’s photos. This makes it ideal for a surprise proposal at an iconic location.
3. Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is another great location for proposals in London. It offers breath-taking views of the London skyline mixed with the natural views of Regents park in the foreground. Primrose hill is a very special place to me - it’s where I photographed my first ever surprise proposal. I love the reaction of people at Primrose Hill. Normally, there is a crowd at the top and they always cheer and applaud the couple and it’s lovely to see.
4. Italian Gardens
Italian Gardens, part of Hyde Park, is yet another beautiful spot for a proposal in London. It offers some lovely views and beautiful grounds to explore after you have proposed. It does get busy though so if you have your eyes set on Italian Gardens as your location to propose you have to be prepared to accept you might have some people other than you and your partner in your photos.
5. Tower Bridge
The most iconic bridge in London and certainly one of the most famous proposal locations - Tower Bridge. The only reason Tower Bridge isn’t nearer the top of this list is because of how busy it gets. It’s a fantastic location to propose and I certainly recommend it to everyone who wants an iconic look to their proposal photos.
6. St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden
St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is another stunning location for proposals in London. It’s just a few minutes away from Tower Bridge, very much in the heart of London but not many people know about it hence why it’s quiet and a lovely spot for proposals.
7. Millennium Bridge
Last on this list but definitely not least is Millennium Bridge in London. Busy but iconic, Millennium bridge is a great spot propose. With it’s stunning surroundings and amazing views it definitely deserves a spot on this list. It does get pretty busy so it’s okay if you are fine with people being around you but if you are looking for a more intimate proposal, very early morning would be the only appropriate time at this particular spot.
Bonus location - Fitzrovia Chapel
Fitzrovia Chapel is located in Pearson Square, London, was built in 1891-2 and restored in 2017. No longer a religious space, the chapel is frequently used for weddings, proposals, exhibitions and more. Ideal if you are looking for a really intimate setting and want to go an extra mile - the Chapel can be decorated and you can even hire a musician to perform while you are proposing.
To Summarise
London is full of stunning locations to propose. It’s all down to your personal preference. Whether you are looking for an iconic Tower Bridge or Big Ben proposal or you are after a more intimate, but still prominent setting like Kyoto Garden or St Dunstan in the East,, or a fully private setting like Fitzrovia Chapel, London has got it all for you.
Where to next?
Surprise proposals - how I photograph them, what’s included in the package I offer, the answers to your questions and more, you can find here.
Ruth & Dan - Bury Court Barn Wedding
Ruth and Dan’s Bury Court Barn Wedding
Ruth and Dan got married at the lovely Bury Court Barn 2 days before my birthday in August this year and what a wedding it was! I loved every part of it from the beginning until the end. The venue was beautiful, the weather was definitely on our side and everyone at the wedding - guests, staff and suppliers were so friendly and nice.
Dan and Ruth were the loveliest couple and it was great to get to know some of their relatives and friends. It was great talking to Tariq, the jiu-jitsu black belt (who doesn’t tell anyone about it!), Nick, Joe, Billy, Ruth’s cousin from Ireland, Tommy with his wild moves and everyone else!
A great big thank you to my friend and mentor - Olly Knight for having me photograph this wedding alongside him.
Where to next?
Check out Cannelle and Kevin’s Chateau De Tredion destination wedding here.
Naadia and Jamie - Rowhill Grange & Utopia Spa Hotel Proposal
The Planning
Jamie contacted me a few weeks before the proposal. He had all the details figured out - the ring, the place, the time, the gazebo and afternoon tea. He had planned a spa day away for him and his partner, Naadia, at the Rowhill Grange & Utopia Spa hotel near Dartford. He arranged a company to decorate the gazebo at the hotel and had an afternoon tea set up there as well.
The plan worked perfectly. Naadia had a massage booked from 12 until 12:30 during which we made sure everything was okay and made sure the wind didn’t knock one of the decorative trees over towards the table where the ring was hidden and where the afternoon tea was set up.
The hotel itself and the grounds were fantastic. The weather, apart from the random gusts of wind, was definitely on our side. The weather forecast kept changing and also the chances of rain were high according to the ever-so-unreliable weather apps but in the end the rain held off for us.
The decorated gazebo looked gorgeous thanks to A&K Event Styling Ltd and the afternoon tea which was prepared by the hotel looked, and tasted, amazing. Thank you so much Naadia and Jamie for letting me have the smoked salmon sandwiches from your afternoon tea!
The ring! The ring was nothing short of incredible. Jamie could not have done a better job at picking the ring. I can tell you this because Naadia did not stop looking at it throughout the hour or so I had with them and indeed it was a fine piece of jewellery.
Gallery
I’m forever grateful I got to photograph Naadia and Jamie’s proposal and also to receive this message from Naadia afterwards.
“Stan....we are honestly lost for words...The pictures are absolutely beautiful, every single one captures a different emotion that helped us to relive and remember that particular moment in time. The photos are stunning and we love them. We cannot wait to share them with our family and friends. I'm so pleased that you were recommended to Jamie and that you were available on the weekend as planned. It was meant to be!”
Where to next?
Check out Alexandra and Miguel’s Big Ben proposal here.
Kyoto Garden Proposal - Apoorva and Sunil - A Perfectly Executed Plan
It couldn’t have gone any better..!
Apoorva was oblivious to what was coming. I was on the other side of the waterfall, she saw me and handed me her phone to take a photo of them. I said I’d take a photo of them on my camera and send it to them later as well. Little did she know Sunil was about to propose. The plan was so perfectly executed it took Apoorva a while to realise what had just happened.
After the proposal
After Sunil proposed we then wandered through Kyoto Garden and Holland Park and then got on the streets. To finish, we all needed to get on the tube which was a perfect opportunity to get a photo of them with a blurred train in the background - I loved it!
Gallery
Where to next?
Check out Akanksha and Sam’s Italian Gardens proposal here.
Cannelle and Kevin - Chateau De Tredion Wedding
Chateau De Tredion Wedding - Cannelle and Kevin
A silly early start after 2 hours of sleep. That’s how the trip started. Yes, I still get so excited before weddings that I can barely sleep the night before.
The drive to the airport was longer than the flight. Gatwick to Nantes only took an hour or so. At the airport, we were greeted by the most lovely people - Jean-Pierre and Emelyne, dad and sister of the groom. They were the nicest hosts we could’ve ever asked for. We stayed at their house the night before the wedding and the night after the wedding and we watched the Euros 2024 final with them. It was so nice of Jean-Pierre, Emelyne and Katy not to cheer for Spain during the heart-breaking match.
Photographing the Wedding
We got to the venue at 10, 4 hours before the ceremony so we could photograph plenty of the bridal and groom prep and take some images of the venue. I fell in love with the Chateau from the moment I saw it. Such a magnificent venue.
Canelle and Kevin’s wedding was really nice to photograph. There were countless moments of connection, big hugs and lots of kisses.
In terms of timing, it was definitely the longest wedding I’ve photographed so far. We started photographing at 10:30 and finished at 02:30 am.
Such a pleasure to photograph this wedding alongside Olly Knight - my mentor and friend.
Gallery
After the Wedding
The day after the wedding all guests returned to the Chateau for a traditional French lunch - galettes and cider.
Where to next?
Check out Sophie and Alex’s Clapton Country Club Wedding here.
Millennium Bridge Proposal - Cristiana and Raffa
“Hi Stan!!!! You have exceeded our expectations!!! These are really really beautiful!!! Thank you sooooo much!!!”
The Story
Raffa and Cristiana met during the pandemic and used to go to Millennium Bridge all the time. Back then it looked a little different from now - there were a lot less people. Despite this, Raffa didn’t have a doubt that Millenium Bridge was where he would propose.
He contacted me and we had a video call during which we made a great use of Google Street View - my best friend in location scouting.
On the day Raffa executed the plan well, she said a big YES, and we wandered around for an hour or so to take some photos around Millenium Bridge. They had a really lovely connection between them which made it a breeze to capture nice moments.
Gallery
About Me
Hi, I’m Stan and I’m a documentary wedding photographer based in Folkestone, Kent. I also enjoy working as a proposal photographer in London and the UK. My approach and style are all about beautifully capturing the candid moment - natural, authentic and unposed. Find out more about how I photograph proposals here.
Italian Gardens Proposal - Akanksha and Sam
Before the Proposal
Sam and I got on like a house on fire from the day he contacted me about his proposal. I loved how he planned the whole thing and the location he had in mind - Italian Gardens. Sam was so excited and literally couldn’t wait for the big day (he contacted me 5 weeks in advance).
We had a video call and we did the usual Google Street View scout of the location. A couple of weeks after that I was in London for another proposal so I popped down to the location to figure out which was the best spot for the proposal which Sam really appreciated.
The Plan
Sam told Akanksha they were coming to London to celebrate her taking her GP exam and he had the whole day planned. Little did she know he was also planning to propose.
On the day, after their train got cancelled and then they got stuck in traffic, they finally made it to Italian Gardens, and the rest is history.
Gallery
PS
I feel like herons are stalking me - there has been one at my last two proposals.
As always it was an absolute pleasure to be a part of another proposal story and to be able to capture some photos for Akanksha and Sam that they will hopefully cherish forever.
About Me
Hi, I’m Stan and I’m a documentary wedding photographer based in Folkestone, Kent. I also enjoy working as a proposal photographer in London and the UK. My approach and style are all about beautifully capturing the candid moment - natural, authentic and unposed. Find out more about how I photograph proposals here.
How To Pick The Best Venue For Your Wedding (and why is the venue so important)
Want to find out how to pick the best venue for your wedding? This article will give you an idea of the most important factors you need to consider when choosing your venue.
Clapton Country Club, London
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey but it can also be quite overwhelming. One of the biggest decisions you'll make (apart from choosing your husband or wife) is choosing the right venue for your big day. But why is the venue so important? Keep reading to find out.
The Significance of Choosing the Right Wedding Venue
The venue sets the stage for your entire wedding day. It's where your memories will be made, your photos will be taken, and your guests will gather to celebrate with you. No pressure, right? Finding the right place can make everything else fall into place, so it's worth taking the time to get it right. It is also the starting point of your wedding planning. Finding the rest of the suppliers for your wedding has got everything to do with the venue. For example, if your venue is in Essex, you will likely be looking for wedding florists in Essex, hairdressers in Essex and so on. Some wedding vendors (I hate using this term but I do for the lack of a better one) like your photographer and videographer are a lot more mobile than others. Also having local suppliers will most likely cost less than having suppliers from the other side of the country.
Understanding Your Wedding Vision and Theme
First things first: what kind of wedding do you envision? Are you dreaming of a rustic barn wedding, a castle vibe or a beachside celebration? Your venue should reflect your style and the overall vibe you want for your wedding. Consider what makes you and your partner unique and how you can bring that into your venue choice. From a photography perspective, your venue is what will determine the look of your wedding gallery to a huge extent.
According to Hitched’s National Wedding Survey in 2023, barns were the most popular venue types in 2023.
Determining Your Budget and Venue Costs
Your budget will play a huge role in determining which venues are in the running. It's essential to have a clear idea of what you can afford before you start touring places. Your venue will probably be your biggest spend for your wedding and it’s worth investing the time to pick the right one. According to the survey by Hitched quoted above, the average wedding cost in the UK in 2023 was £20,700, and the average venue cost was just under £9,000 which is close to 50% of the entire budget.
Location - Picking the Perfect Spot
West Sussex
Where you get married matters. Think about your guests and how they'll get to the venue. Is it easy to find? Is there plenty of parking? If you're having a lot of out-of-town guests, you might want a venue that's close a hotel and a bus or train station. And don't forget about the scenery - whether it's a breathtaking view or a cosy indoor space, the location sets the mood.
Guest List Considerations: Size and Accommodation
Your guest list will also influence your venue choice. You need a space that can comfortably accommodate everyone without feeling too cramped or too empty. Make sure the venue has the right capacity for your expected number of guests and offers the necessary amenities, like restrooms and seating. Most venues have multiple sections different in size to accommodate various guest counts.
Venue Style: From Rustic Barns to French Chateaus
There are so many different venue styles to choose from, and each offers its own charm. Whether you're into rustic barns, elegant ballrooms, industrial lofts, or beachfront properties, there's something out there for everyone. Consider what style resonates with you and your partner and fits the theme of your wedding.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Venues: Pros and Cons
Clapton Country Club, London
Deciding between an indoor or outdoor venue is another biggie. Outdoor weddings can be stunning, but they come with the risk of unpredictable weather. Indoor venues offer more control over the environment but might not have the natural beauty you're looking for. Weigh the pros and cons of each option to see what suits your needs best. The best option is choosing a venue with both outdoor and indoor areas that you love, simply because of the unpredictable British weather.
Checking Availability: Booking Early and Peak Seasons
Popular venues can book up fast, especially during peak wedding season. If you have your heart set on a specific date or venue, it's crucial to start your search early. Be prepared to be flexible with your date if necessary, as this can open up more options and reduce the final cost of your wedding. You should expect to pay more for a weekend in-season wedding than for a mid-week off-season wedding and I think this goes for most wedding suppliers and vendors.
Amenities and Services: What to Look for in a Venue
Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, while others might just provide the space. Always check what your venue offers in terms of decor and catering for example. If the venue provides those it can save you time looking for yet more suppliers to deal with. My thinking when it comes to wedding planning is the fewer people you deal with, the less to think about, and the less stress. That’s why sometimes it’s a great choice to have a wedding planner if your budget allows for one.
Catering Options: In-House vs. External Vendors
Clapton Country Club, London
Food is a big deal at weddings, so you'll want to make sure your venue can accommodate your catering needs. Some venues have in-house catering, which can simplify things, but it might limit your menu options. Others allow external vendors, giving you more flexibility to choose exactly what you want.
Visit Your Favourite Picks
Photos and online reviews are helpful, but nothing beats seeing a venue in person. Schedule tours of your top choices to get a real feel for the space. Pay attention to the layout, the ambience, and how the staff interacts with you. Trust your gut—if a place feels right, it probably is.
Logistics and Coordination with Other Vendors
Your venue will need to work seamlessly with your other vendors, like the caterer, florist, and DJ. Ask about any supplier rules, restrictions or recommendations the venue might have. Good coordination can ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day.
Testimonials and Reviews: Learning from Other Couples
Check out reviews from other couples who have tied the knot at the venue. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into what you can expect. Pay attention to any recurring themes, both positive and negative, to help inform your decision.
Trusting Your Instincts
At the end of the day, trust your instincts. You want a venue that feels right for you and your partner. If a place gives you that "this is it" feeling, go for it. Your wedding day should be a reflection of your love story, and the right venue will help tell that story beautifully.
Making Your Wedding Day Unforgettable with the Right Venue
Clapton Country Club, London
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is a big step, but it's also an exciting one. By considering your vision, budget, guest list, and all the little details, you can find a place that makes your wedding day everything you've dreamed of. Remember to enjoy the process and trust that you'll find the perfect spot to say "I do”.
Where to next?
Check out Ruth and Dan’s Bury Court Barn Wedding here.
A Surprise Proposal in London - the Arch Beneath Westminster Bridge - Laura and Luke
Find out the story behind Laura and Luke’s surprise proposal in London.
Before the Proposal
Luke contacted me in early June and told me about his and his girlfriend Laura’s plans to visit Europe for 5 weeks during July and August. He told me that Laura loved London and was really looking forward to visiting all the landmarks, which is why he was thinking of proposing to her in London.
Choosing the Location
Luke was considering proposing at the arch beneath Westminster Bridge, opposite Big Ben but wasn’t entirely sure. During our video call, we looked at the photos from a previous proposal I had photographed there - Alexandra and Miguel’s proposal, and it was enough for Luke to fall in love with the location.
Photographing the Proposal
The time we agreed on was 9 am because the spot tends to get pretty busy after that and Luke wanted as much of a private setting as possible. I was going to be exactly on time, but I normally get to proposals at least 30 minutes beforehand which gives me time to adjust to any unforeseen circumstances. I decided to message Luke and ask him to slow them down so I get some time to set up my cameras and get ready.
Little did I know - he took my request quite literally. They didn’t mean to but got on the wrong bus to get to the location and ended up being almost an hour late. It actually worked great for me as I had time to set my cameras up, adjust all settings, get ready, take some establishing photos and so forth. I did get worried when they hadn’t showed up half an hour later so I dropped Luke a message to make sure everything was okay.
Luke executed the plan perfectly. They took a few selfies with the Big Ben in the background and just when Laura thought they were about to leave, Luke got the ring out of his pocket and dropped to one knee.
After the Proposal
After Luke introduced me to Laura we had a quick chat and we did what I always do with couples after their proposals - we got lost in London for about an hour, they were being themselves, celebrating their engagement and having lovely moments and I was capturing their real connection, intimacy and joy.
It was an absolute bliss getting to know Laura and Luke and being a part of something so special for them.
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About Me
Hi, I’m Stan and I’m a documentary wedding photographer based in Folkestone, Kent. I also enjoy working as a proposal photographer in London and the UK. My approach and style are all about beautifully capturing the candid moment - natural, authentic and unposed. Find out more about how I photograph proposals here or find out more about me.
Sophie and Alex - Clapton Country Club Wedding
Clapton Country Club Wedding - Sophie and Alex
Even though Sophie and Alex’s wedding was in the middle of June, the weather for their day wasn’t looking particularly promising. I got to Alex’s house nice and early in the morning where I photographed him and the chaps getting ready and then we walked to the venue together. Just as we were arriving at the venue it started raining but luckily we were all prepared with brollies. As I’m writing this I now remember where I left my brolly and why I couldn’t find it a couple of days ago - it’s at Clapton Country Club!
Photographing the wedding
The rustic décor and industrial look of the venue worked great with the guests’ colourful outfits. There were lots of moments to photograph - exactly what every documentary photographer is hoping for.
The dancefloor was one of my favourite ones so far - incredibly wild. This was thanks to the sax player - Dave and the band they had in the evening.
It was a great wedding to photograph. I’m glad I got to talk with some of their guests and get to know them and I had a fantastic time at their wedding.
Such a pleasure to photograph this wedding alongside Olly Knight - my mentor and friend.
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Where to next?
Check out Brooke and Ross’s Ravenswood Wedding here.
Westgate Gardens, Canterbury, Surprise Proposal - Hannah and John
The Planning
John and Hannah were planning a trip to the UK at the end of June. A few weeks before they were due to land in London, John contacted me to see if I was available to photograph his surprise proposal. We had a lovely video call during which we were choosing the best spot for the task with the help of Google Street View.
On the day there was a small blue tractor with a trailer parked just behind the spot we had decided on. It’s because of circumstances like this I like to get on location for proposals well early, which gives me time to react and solve the problem.
Luckily for John and Hannah, the tractor wasn’t too big and simply choosing a lower angle to photograph from meant it was no longer an issue.
On the Day
John executed the plan perfectly and Hannah said a big YES. She was caught by complete surprise and there was so much shock, tears and laughs. We then spent some time wandering the streets of Canterbury.
Another proposal, another couple it was an absolute pleasure to meet and photograph.
About Me
Hi, I’m Stan and I’m a documentary wedding photographer based in Folkestone, Kent. I also enjoy working as a proposal photographer in London and the UK. My approach and style are all about beautifully capturing the candid moment - natural, authentic and unposed. Find out more about how I photograph proposals here.
Big Ben Surprise Proposal - Alexandra and Miguel
Before the Proposal
Miguel - a devoted Manchester United fan and a great guy got in touch to see if I could photograph his surprise proposal in London at the beginning of June. He and his girlfriend at the time, now fiancee, Alexandra, were on their way to Italy for a wedding but decided to spend some time in London beforehand. Little did she know Miguel had big plans for their short stay in London.
Miguel knew Alexandra loved the architecture in London and decided that Big Ben would be a perfect background for their proposal. The original plan was to propose at a specific time (11:19, which is their date), but he ended up proposing earlier.
Photographing the Proposal
Miguel executed the plan perfectly and as you can probably guess, she said yes and we spent an hour or so wandering around Westminster after their proposal for some photos. What a pleasure it was to meet and spend some time with these two genuinely lovely people and capture some moments they will treasure forever.
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Where to next?
Check out Apoorva and Sunil’s Kyoto Garden proposal here.
Wildlife Photography At Lake Kerkini, Greece
I got to visit this spectacular lake in early May while I was visiting family in Greece. Without a doubt this has been one of my favourite wildlife photography outings so far.
Me and my dad hired a boat for 2 hours to go around the lake, explore and photograph the variety of wildlife. Our skipper was Greek and didn’t speak much English, so my dad being fluent in Greek helped our communication massively.
We set off on the boat at 7 am which was a little too late to get the soft morning light at the lake. We got to see various species some of which were the Dalmatian pelican, egret, heron, cormorant, white pelican, Squacco heron and more.
Brooke and Ross - The Ravenswood Wedding
Brooke and Ross got married in Feb at the gorgeous Ravenswood venue in Sussex. The weather was far from perfect and even though it rained the whole day it didn’t affect the great atmosphere of the day in the slightest. We managed to pop out briefly for some couple-time photos and enjoyed the cosy venue for the rest of the day. Full of emotion, laughter and tears, the speeches were my favourite part of their big day.
Such a pleasure to photograph this wedding alongside Olly Knight - my mentor and friend.
Where to next?
Find out more about me here.
Katy and Dhanesh’s Intimate London Wedding
Long shots do pay off sometimes.
A day before Dhanesh was going to propose to Katy he contacted me to check if I was available to photograph their big moment and I’m so glad I did it. Photographing their proposal led to me being their wedding photographer only 6 weeks later.
They had a lovely, intimate wedding, and it all started at Primrose Hill in London, where he proposed. We then tubed it to the hotel where they were getting ready before heading off to Marylebone Old Town Hall in London. We then wandered at Regents park (if I remember right!) and had a lovely meal at the Cinnamon Club.
It was a small, intimate wedding, with only 11 guests, which made me and the lovely videographers - Naomi and James, feel like we were part of the family.
