Capturing Love in the Festive Glow: A Guide for Couples Engaged at Christmas or New Year!
As the holiday season wraps us in its warm embrace, many couples find themselves swept away in the magic of Christmas and New Year's celebrations. It's a time of joy, love, and, for some, a season of new beginnings as they embark on the exciting journey of engagement. If you find yourself among the newly engaged this festive season, congratulations! As a professional Somerset-based wedding photographer, I'm thrilled to share some insights and tips on what to do next.
1) Celebrate the Moment:
The first step after saying "yes" is to revel in the joy of the moment. Take the time to celebrate your love and the commitment you've just made. Whether it's an intimate dinner, a cozy night in, or a festive gathering with friends and family, savour the magic of your engagement.
2) Capture the Moment:
In the midst of celebration, don't forget to capture the magic on camera. Take some time for a spontaneous photoshoot or, better yet, hire a professional photographer to document the joyous occasion. The festive decorations and warm holiday glow make for a beautiful backdrop, creating timeless images that you'll cherish for years to come.
3) Share the News:
Spread the joy by sharing your exciting news with loved ones. Consider hosting a virtual announcement, sending out festive engagement cards, or sharing a heartwarming post on social media. The holiday season is the perfect time to spread love and happiness, and your engagement adds an extra touch of warmth to the celebrations.
4) Start Planning:
Once the initial excitement has settled, it's time to start thinking about your wedding plans. Begin by discussing your vision for the big day, including the style, theme, and location. Planning a wedding during the festive season offers a unique opportunity to incorporate the magic of Christmas or New Year's into your celebration.
5) Choose a Date:
Selecting a wedding date is a significant step in the planning process. Consider the availability of venues, vendors, and your desired guests when choosing a date. Embrace the festive spirit by opting for a winter wedding, complete with twinkling lights, seasonal décor, and perhaps a touch of snow if you're lucky.
Just remember and something I tell all my couples… venues and photographers have limited daily availability, so these are the two most important suppliers to get wrapped up first. Here is a FREE guide on how to select your venue and wedding photographer.
6) Engagement Photoshoot:
Schedule a professional engagement photoshoot to capture the essence of your love during the festive season. A Somerset-based wedding and engagement photographer can expertly frame your connection against the backdrop of the picturesque countryside or within the enchanting atmosphere of the holiday season.
Having an engagement photoshoot, or even a pre-wedding photoshoot can be a great way to meet your wedding photographer before the big day. Not only do you get to meet, chat, and ask questions, but you also get a set of great images of yourselves at an amazing point in your journey as a couple. These shoots can also help you relax on your wedding day, especially if you are shy/nervous in front of a camera. Here is an example from a recent couple I worked with that said they “lacked confidence in front of camera” on their engagement photoshoot:
“We booked James for an engagement shoot so that we could get used to being in front of the camera and know what to expect before our big day. We both hate being photographed, so were super nervous, but James put us completely at ease ... so much so, we actually really enjoyed the experience!
James is incredibly talented. His understanding of light and attention to detail is impressive. Our engagement photos are stunning and made me cry (happy tears) when I first saw them. We will be going into our wedding feeling much more confident and are very lucky that James will be there to capture it.”
7) Create a Wedding Website:
Lastly, as you embark on the planning journey, consider creating a wedding website. This digital platform can serve as a central hub for all your wedding-related information, from venue details to RSVPs. Share your engagement story, showcase your stunning photos, and keep loved ones informed about the upcoming celebration. There are plenty of website hosts out there, but try Hitched if you are really stuck.
Festive Celebrations of Love….Maybe a White Winter Wedding?
In conclusion, getting engaged during the Christmas or New Year's season is a magical experience that sets the stage for a joyous and love-filled wedding. As a professional Somerset-based wedding photographer, I'm here to help you capture the beauty of your journey, from the enchanting engagement to the celebration of your love on your special day. Embrace the festive spirit, revel in the joy, and let the magic of the season guide you as you plan the wedding of your dreams. Cheers to love, happiness, and a lifetime of cherished memories!
