Free Resource
The Complete
Wedding Planning Guide
Everything you need to plan your wedding — budget breakdown, timeline checklist, and tips from 9+ years of shooting weddings across the UK and internationally.
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Planning Timeline
Your Wedding Countdown
Work through this checklist in order — each phase builds on the last. The earlier you book your key suppliers, the better your options.
12+ Months Before
- ✓Set your overall wedding budget
- ✓Draft your guest list
- ✓Choose your wedding date (or shortlist 2–3)
- ✓Book your venue — this locks in your date
- ✓Book your photographer & videographer early (popular dates fill fast)
- ✓Consider your wedding style / theme
9–12 Months Before
- ✓Book your caterer
- ✓Choose and book your wedding band / DJ
- ✓Book hair & make-up artists
- ✓Send save-the-dates
- ✓Research florist and décor suppliers
- ✓Plan your honeymoon and book flights
6–9 Months Before
- ✓Send formal wedding invitations
- ✓Book officiant / registrar
- ✓Choose bridesmaids dresses and suits
- ✓Book wedding transport
- ✓Purchase wedding rings
- ✓Finalise menu with caterer
3–6 Months Before
- ✓Order / commission wedding cake
- ✓Arrange wedding insurance
- ✓Book wedding night hotel
- ✓Chase RSVPs and finalise numbers
- ✓Plan ceremony readings and music
- ✓Book rehearsal dinner venue
1–3 Months Before
- ✓Confirm all supplier bookings and share timeline
- ✓Final dress / suit fittings
- ✓Create a detailed day-of timeline
- ✓Arrange seating plan
- ✓Plan favours and table décor
- ✓Write vows (if personalised)
Final Week
- ✓Confirm arrival times with all suppliers
- ✓Pack overnight bag for wedding night
- ✓Prepare supplier payments / envelopes
- ✓Brief wedding party on timeline
- ✓Charge all personal devices
- ✓Relax — you've prepared brilliantly
Budget Guide
Where Does the Money Go?
UK wedding budgets vary enormously — these percentages are based on typical UK weddings of 60–120 guests. Use them as a starting framework, then adjust to your priorities.
★ Photography & Video is one of the few wedding investments you'll return to for decades — it's worth prioritising in your budget.
From the Filmmaker
Photo & Video Tips
After 9+ years and 150+ weddings, these are the things I wish every couple knew before their big day.
1.Book early — the good ones fill fast
Popular wedding photographers and videographers in London and the South East book up 12–18 months in advance, especially for peak dates (May–September Saturdays). Don't wait until 6 months out.
2.Watch at least one full film before booking
Anyone can cut a 90-second highlight reel. Ask to see a full 20–40 minute feature film — that's the product you're actually buying. The editing style, music choices, and storytelling matter far more than the kit.
3.Give your photographer a shot list — but not a bible
A list of 15–20 must-have family groupings is helpful. A list of 100 Pinterest poses is a nightmare. The best documentary work happens when your photographer is free to observe and react.
4.Natural light is your best friend
Schedule key moments (couple portraits, speeches if outdoors) during golden hour — the hour before sunset. It's the difference between good photos and extraordinary photos. Talk to your venue about positioning.
5.Budget for both photo and video
You can share photos on the day. You can't share a video — but you can re-watch it for the rest of your lives. Couples who skip video most commonly say it's their only regret. Combined packages often offer better value than booking separately.
6.Don't let speeches run over 10 minutes
For the film, speeches over 10 minutes become difficult to edit into a compelling narrative without heavy cuts. Brief your speakers: 3–5 minutes each is perfect. Your guests will thank you too.
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