YOUR ULTIMATE WINTER WEDDING GUIDE – HOW TO MAKE THE VERY MOST OF THE COOLER SEASON….
A winter wedding can be the most beautiful of occasions. Imagine a low winter sun lighting up the land, the muted colours, the atmosphere, the ever changing skies. The warmth of a hot whiskey by the fireside with your bridal party, the craic, the cuddles. The dream can happen.There are also challenges, the weather, maybe some rain, but wrap up, be ready, be spontaneous, the great landscapes of the north west awaits, the cosy pubs and the gorgeous interiors of your venue too. Be ready, ready to step outside when the light is just right, or when the weather calms a bit, be ready for the unknown – we can work together and overcome any challenge that might arise.
Have faith…in your photographer – I will do my best the day long to create wonderful atmospheric photographs for you, to capture the real moments, to create beautiful natural portraits. I work fast and effective, I love the craic, I love the challenges. There are great opportunities indoors too for creative photos, we will take some times to show off your dress and your love for each other.
Preparation is key – pack some wellies, a cosy shawl, blanket or scarf, we can adventure outside, show off the greatness of the winter season, and be back inside in a short time.
Plan B
It’s advisable to have a plan B should huge weather take hold. We can use church interiors for families and portraits, the local pub too, with a creamy pint in your hand or a hot toddie to warm the inside.
Embrace the season
The gifts of winter are there for the believers – the light can be sublime, the earlier sunset might allow for an afternoon golden hour for energetic, colourful photographs. Stay positive, have faith.
Time
It is advisable to have an earlier ceremony time to allow for the earlier sunset, and in turn have an earlier start time in the morning. Please share your plans and needs with your hair and makeup team.
Food, drink, treats
Please look after yourself, have a sandwich or snacks for post-ceremony – you will be so glad you did. (this is my no. 1 piece of advice to any bride and groom)
Hairdos, hair grips , hairspray, get prepped
A weather and wind proof hairstyle might work to your favour. Some brides love this style in the winter.
Magic moments
The most of your wedding photographs will be the real moments – what happens naturally. That might be at home in the morning, in the car with parents, walking the aisle, the smiles as you greet each other at the ceremony, the tears, the laughter, friends, family, the craic all day long. Indeed most of the photographs I take you will not be aware of, the real moments,the stories, the best of the day. I hope you’ve enjoyed this wee guide – I hope it inspires you to look forward to your winter wedding even more and inspires you to look upwards and watch the magic light, the changing skies, the story of your lives and your wedding day experience. I’ve bene photographing weddings for almost 20 years and many of my great memories have been from winter weddings, some of the most awarded photographs too.
I’m here to help or share your plans anytime
Good luck
Jay