3 Wedding Trends for 2024 - 2025
AI - AI seems to have infiltrated everything in 2024 and weddings are no different. AI can be a great tool to give you ideas for your wedding. However, it seems there is also a trend of getting AI to write speeches. I’d probably suggest avoiding this, unless it’s 5 minutes before your speech and you have nothing to say!
Wedding dress codes - We are seeing a rise in couples giving dress code instructions to their guests. This helps couples have more control over the aesthetic of their wedding day. However, it’s probably a good idea to expect a few people to ignore the dress code completely.
Celebrant-led ceremonies - a celebrant-led ceremony allows couples to write their own vows, making the day more personal.
The Best Wedding Florists In Taunton
Beautiful bouquet from Betty Bee Flowers
1. Fleur Amour Wedding Florist, Taunton- Charlotte is a multi Chelsea Flower Show Gold medallist who can offer you some of the most exquisite bouquets I have seen. You can visit her website here Specialist Wedding Florist in Taunton (fleuramourweddingflorist.co.uk)
2.Betty Bee Flowers - Betty Bee Flowers offers a beautfiful selection of bespoke bunches. You can visit their instagram account here www.instagram.com/bettybeeflowers
3. Nicky’s Flower Studio, Taunton - Conveniently located in the hear of Taunton, Nicky’s flower studio has a beautiful selections of bouqets inside her adorable shop. You can visit her website here Nicky’s Flower Studio (sumupstore.com)4
4. Loolabells floristry, Taunton - Loolabells floristy offers a gorgeous selection of bouqets. You can visit their website here Weddings Flowers| Loolabells Floristry
5. Tilda Rose Floristry, Taunton - Offering a bespoke and personal design, Tilda Rose specialises in creating beautiful floral designs that reflect your vision, personality, style and budget. You can visit her website here About • Tilda Rose Wedding Flowers Somerset (tildarosefloristry.co.uk)
6. Judith Goss, Taunton - With over 50 years of experience, the Judith Goss name is well known for its beautiful selection of flowers. You can visit their website here Judith Goss Florists Online Flower Gift Shop | Sameday Flower Delivery Taunton | Taunton Florists | Taunton Interflora Florist | Flower Delivery
5 Wedding Dress Shops In (And Around) Taunton
Hannah in her beautiful dress from Izzi Stockton in Taunton
Sassi Halford Bridal, Taunton - if you’re looking for an elegant, luxurious contemporary design, no look further than Sassi Halford. Her shop is conveniently located in the heart of Taunton, so you don’t need to travel far in your quest for the perfect dress. You can visit the website at Couture Bridal Gowns & Occasion Wear in Somerset - Sassi Holford
Izzi Stockon, Taunton - At Izzi Stockton, they believe in the importance of size inclusivity and stock a range of dresses in sizes 8 - 30. They work by appointment only, so please call them on 01823 331053. You can visit their website at Home - Izzi Stockton Bridal
14 & Sixpence, Ilminster - If you’re on a tighter budget, or just looking for a bargain, you might be enticed by 14 & Sixpence’s sales. Every six months they phase out some of the designs, meaning you can grab a great deal for 50% off the RRP. You can visit their website at 14 & Sixpence | Bridal & Prom Dresses in Somerset (14andsixpence.co.uk)
Rookery Bridal, Rooks Bridge - Owned by Sarah since 2019, Rookery Bridal offers a carefully selected sample of dresses from their beautiful designers are in a variety of sizes. You can visit their website at Rookery Bridal | Somerset Wedding Dress Shop
Lara Belle Bridal Boutique, Wellington - Located in a beautiful Victorian manor house, Lara Belle Bridal Boutique offers a selection of dresses from top designers, including Vera Wang, Jenny Yoo and Nicole Milano. You can visit their website at Bridal Shop | Lara Belle Bridal - Wedding Dress Shop Somerset Devon
5 Tips For Looking Great In Your Wedding Photos
Looking fantastic in your wedding photos is all about preparation, relaxation, and trust. By following these tips and working closely with your photographer, you can ensure your wedding album is filled with stunning images that capture your beauty, joy, and love on your special day.
As your wedding photographer, I’m here to guide you and capture the magic of your wedding day. Getting photos you love is all about preparation, relaxation and trust. Below are my best tips to help you:
1. Have a pre-wedding photo session
Engagement shoots are a great way to get comfortable in front of the camera and with me as your photographer. It helps you understand posing techniques and see how certain angles work for you.
2. Professional Hair and Makeup
Your hair and makeup artists will know how to enhance your natural beauty and ensure you look your best on camera. Have a trial run before the wedding to find the perfect look. Long-Lasting Products: Use high-quality, long-lasting products that hold up throughout the day.
3. Practice Good Posture
Good posture can dramatically improve how you look in photos. Stand Tall, imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head. Relax Your Shoulders, keep them down and back to open up your chest.
4. Relax and Be Natural
The best photos often come when you’re relaxed and enjoying yourself. Trust me to capture genuine moments. Take Deep Breaths, this can help calm your nerves. Interact Naturally, laugh, talk, and interact naturally with your partner and guests.
5. Focus on Each Other
Your wedding day is about your love and connection. Focusing on your partner can create beautiful and authentic moments. Forget about the camera and get lost in each other. Whisper something sweet or funny to each other to capture natural smiles and laughter.
Jackie & Mick, Taunton Register Office - May 2024
What a beautiful day to take photos.
Jackie & Mick’s wedding took place in the Tudor Hall at Taunton Register Office, where we were blessed by the sun shining through the stained glass windows. It was a lovely ceremony, full of friends, family, lots of laughter and a few happy tears. I was absolutely delighted to document these memories for Jackie & Mick.
If you would like to enquire about my wedding photography package, please get in touch here.
Ryan & Hannah - Taunton Registry Office, April 2024
It was so lovely to see Hannah and Ryan’s day come together after months of preparation. I did not take it lightly that they trusted me to document this moment for them.
I breathed a sigh of relief when the sun shone for Hannah and Ryan’s wedding day. After many threats from the weather forecast to rain, the sun was a very welcomed sight.
Taunton Register Office looked beautiful, with sunflowers and stained glass windows greeting us in the Vivary Room.
If I had to sum up the ceremony in one word, it would be: laughter. Watching Hannah giggle her way through her vows and have to repeat some of her lines (oops) is something I’ll never forget.
4 Reasons Parents Should Be In Photos
1. Family photographs are a visual timeline of a family's journey. In years to come, these photos will be cherished as a link to the past.
2. When parents step into the frame, the dynamics of the photo session evolve. Their presence can add warmth, affection, and genuine connection. These moments not only showcase the love between parent and child but also reflect the family's dynamics. The laughter shared during these sessions create images that you'll love to look back on for years to come.
3. Children derive a sense of security and self-worth from the presence of their parents. When parents actively participate in the photo session, it communicates a powerful message to the children - "You are important, and we value these moments together." This affirmation contributes to a child's positive self-esteem, fostering a sense of belonging and significance within the family unit.
4. Some of the most precious moments unfold when families are simply being themselves. Parents playing, laughing, and interacting with their children results in candid shots that tell the story of your family. These unposed moments show the love, joy, and spontaneity in your moments together.
Getting Your Child Excited For Their Photo Session
Involve Them in the Planning:
One way to make the photo session more fun for your child is to involve them in the planning process. Let them have a say in choosing the location or outfits. When children feel like active participants, they become more invested in the experience.
Make it a Game:
Turn the photo session into a playful game to keep your child engaged and entertained. Incorporate activities like "Simon Says" or "I Spy" to make it more fun. This not only distracts them from any anxiety but also produces natural and candid moments that can be beautifully captured.
Choose the Right Time:
Selecting the right time for the photo session is crucial. Aim for a time when your child is well-rested and fed, as this will contribute to their overall mood. Avoid scheduling the session during their naptime or close to mealtime to ensure they are in the best possible spirits.
Be Patient and Flexible:
Lastly, patience is key. Understand that children may need time to warm up to the idea of being photographed. Be flexible and open to spontaneous moments. Sometimes the best shots come when children are simply being themselves.
What Is The Difference Between A Lifestyle And A Posed Newborn Session?
Lifestyle and posed newborns sessions are very different. They both offer unique things, and which one you choose depends entirely on what type of photos you want of your newborn. I offer lifestyle newborn sessions, but I've highlighted the main difference between the two, so you can better idea of the type of photos you might want before you book a photorapher.
Highlights of Posed Newborn Sessions:
Precise posing to showcase your baby's features
Use of props and accessories for a stylised look
Controlled studio environment with specialized lighting
Pros:
Artistic and visually appealing portraits
Focus on the baby's features in a controlled setting
Time-efficient with a pre-planned setup
Cons:
May feel less natural or candid
Limited flexibility in incorporating the family or surroundings
Lifestyle Newborn Sessions: Embracing Authenticity
Lifestyle newborn sessions, on the other hand, aim to capture the genuine moments and emotions of the family in a more relaxed and natural setting. These sessions often take place in the comfort of your own home, allowing your photographer to document the everyday life of your family with the newborn.
Highlights of Lifestyle Newborn Sessions:
Focus on natural interactions and emotions
Incorporation of the family's home and surroundings
Less emphasis on posed shots, more on candid moments
Pros:
Authentic and emotionally rich photographs
Inclusion of the family in a familiar environment
Reflects the real-life dynamics of the family
Cons:
Less of a polished and stylised look of posed sessions
Requires more time for spontaneous moments to unfold
Choosing the Right Fit for Your Family:
Ultimately, the choice between a posed or lifestyle newborn session comes down to your personal preferences and the story you want to tell. If you appreciate the artistry of perfectly posed images and a stylised look, a posed session may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer capturing the authenticity of your family's interactions and the intimate moments in your own home, a lifestyle session might be the ideal fit.
If you would like to book a lifestyle newborn session with me, please click here to get in touc. I am based in Taunton, Somerset and cover the Somerset and Devon area.
A Guide To Booking Your Newborn Session
Book Early:
Your newborn baby will change so quickly, and those first few weeks are the perfect time to capture all of their precious little features. I recommend booking your newborn session within the first 10 days after birth to capture the sleepy, curled-up poses that define newborn photography.
You can consider booking your session as early as just after your 20 week scan. This will ensure availability for the time that will work best for your session.
Prepare Your Baby:
To ensure an easy going session, make sure your baby is well-fed and has had a nap before the shoot. A content and sleepy baby is more cooperative and likely to settle. Dress your baby in loose-fitting clothes to avoid any marks on the skin.
Create a Comfortable Environment:
Newborns are sensitive to their surroundings, so it's essential to create a comfortable and warm environment for the session. Keep the room temperature cosy and have soft blankets and props on hand.
Be Flexible:
Babies can often be unpredictable to say the least. Very often they may not cooperate as planned. Be patient and flexible during the session. Candid moments often make the best photographs.
If you’d like to book a newborn session, you can get in touch here. I am based in Taunton, and cover Somerset and Devon.
Location Ideas For Newborn Photo Sessions
The Beach:
For a breezy and tranquil atmosphere, there is no better place than the beach during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The soft sands, gentle waves, and warm sunlight create a dreamy backdrop for capturing those early moments with your newborn.
Location idea: Brean Sand, Somerset
Home Sweet Home:
Sometimes, the most meaningful and personal photos can be taken right in the comfort of your own home. Utilise natural light streaming through windows, incorporate cosy blankets and pillows, and capture the essence of your family's love in familiar surroundings. Candid shots of everyday moments can be just as precious as posed studio pictures.
The woods:
Venture into the heart of nature by exploring nearby woodlands. The dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, along with the earthy tones of the surroundings, creates a magical setting for newborn photos.
Location idea: Steeple Hill, Blackdowns
Dressing for the weather
In the UK we are blessed with a lot of weather. Knowing how to dress for your session can be challenging enough (check out this blog post for some tips), but throw in some unpredictable weather and it can be even more of a challenge. But, fear not, for I have some tips for you.
a. Light and breathable fabrics: Opt for light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to keep everyone cool and comfortable under the sun.
b. Hats and sunglasses: Add stylish accessories such as hats and sunglasses to not only protect from the sun but also to enhance the overall look of the family ensemble.
c. Avoid heavy layers: Steer clear of heavy layers or dark colors that can absorb heat. Instead, choose pastels or soft tones that complement the bright, sunny surroundings.
Overcast Weather:
a. Layers and textures: Embrace the opportunity to incorporate layers and textures into your outfits. Think cosy jumpers, scarves, and textured fabrics to add depth and interest to the photos.
b. Neutral tones: Opt for a color palette of neutral tones, such as soft grays, creams, and muted pastels, to complement the subdued lighting of overcast days.
c. Bring pops of color: While keeping the main palette neutral, consider adding pops of color through accessories like scarves, hats, or shoes to inject vibrancy into the photos.
Rainy Days:
a. Waterproof outerwear: If the forecast calls for rain, be prepared with stylish yet practical waterproof outerwear, such as raincoats or trench coats, to keep everyone dry.
b. Rubber-soled shoes: Choose footwear with good traction to prevent slipping on wet surfaces. Boots or stylish rain shoes can add a touch of personality while keeping feet dry.
c. Bright colors: Beat the gloomy weather with bright and cheerful colors. Bold umbrellas and vibrant rain boots can add a playful element to the photos.
Cold Winter Days:
a. Cosy layers: Bundle up in cozy layers, such as jumpers, scarves, and hats, to stay warm and stylish in chilly temperatures.
b. Earthy tones: Embrace the winter aesthetic with a color palette inspired by nature – think deep greens, rich burgundies, and warm browns.
c. Coordinating accessories: Coordinate accessories like mittens, scarves, and hats to add a cohesive and polished look to the family ensemble.
Five Facts About Your Photographer (Me!)
Forgive me for being a little self-indulgent. Having your photos taken can be a bit intimidating, so today I am sharing some (probably not very interesting) facts about me, so that I'll feel like less of a stranger. When booking a session, feel free to share some facts about yourself, even if they're as boring as mine.
1. I have aspirations of filling my home with the smell of delicious baked goods, but I am, in fact, a horrible baker.
2. I live in Taunton, Somerset. I lived in Glasgow when I went to university and do miss haggis, even though it's available in Tesco. (Sorry, that was three facts)
3. I LOVE margaritas. It's such a shame they're so strong because I'm a light weight and can only handle two, maybe three if I'm really pushing it.
4. I watch 7+ franchises of the Real Housewives and keep up with all the new episodes. It's a huge commitment, but I'm willing to put in the effort and hours.
5. I'm only 5'1". According to google, so are Reese Witherspoon, Judge Judy, Lady Gaga and Geri Halliwell. We'd probably make an amazing girl band.
Three Reasons to Consider Vivary Park, Taunton For Your Photos
Convenience:
Vivary Park is easily accessibly by lots of local car parks, so you won't need to walk too far, this is definitely a bonus if you have young children
Variety of backdrops:
The park has a variety of trees, bushes, flowers, benches, water spots and flowers. In a short amount of time we can capture a diverse collection of photos without having to walk too far#
Lots of open space for children to play:
Capturing natural photos of your children playing is easy with so much open space, places to run and climb
What NOT To Wear To Your Family Session
While I truly believe you should wear exactly what you want in your photos, there are some things I would recommend avoiding. Of course, you can choose to disregard these tip and I won't hold it against you.
Avoid Matchy-Matchy Overkill:
One common mistake is dressing the entire family in identical outfits. While coordinating colors is a great idea, too much uniformity can create a overwhelming effect. Instead, aim for a color palette that complements each other. Mix and match tones to add depth and visual interest.
Say No to Busy Patterns:
Loud and busy patterns can be distracting and take the focus away from the faces in your photos. Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that won't clash with the natural backdrop or with each other. This allows the focus to be on your family's expressions and interactions.
Avoid Logos and Graphics:
Clothing with large logos or graphics can quickly date your photos. Choose simple and classic pieces that won't overshadow the genuine moments shared during the family session.
Steer Clear of Extreme Trends:
While it's fun to incorporate current fashion trends into your wardrobe, be mindful of how quickly trends come and go. Outfits that are too trendy may not stand the test of time. Opt for timeless pieces that reflect your family's personality without being overly influenced by fleeting fads.
Watch Out for Neon Colors:
Bright neon colors can be visually jarring and may not translate well in photographs. Stick to more muted and pastel shades for a softer, timeless look. These colours tend to photograph well and won't dominate the scene.
Mind the Season and Location:
Consider the season and location of your family session when choosing outfits. While light and airy fabrics work well for a beach session, warmer, layered clothing may be more suitable for an autumn photoshoot in a park. Make sure your clothing choices align with the surroundings for a cohesive and harmonious feel.
Different Ways Display Your Photos
Gallery Wall of Memories
Create a gallery wall featuring a mix of framed and unframed photographs. Arrange them in various sizes and shapes, creating an eclectic display. This approach allows you to tell a visual story.
Customised Photo Books
Transform your family photos into beautifully curated photo books. Online platforms offer customisable templates, allowing you to design a professional-looking photo book that narrates your family's adventures. These books are easy to store and make for wonderful keepsakes.
Photo Collages
Design intricate photo collages that blend multiple images into a cohesive artwork. Collages can be arranged in the shape of a heart, the first letter of your family name, or any other meaningful symbol. These collages add a touch of creativity and symbolism to your space.
Shadow Boxes and Memorabilia Displays
Combine family photographs with sentimental items like ticket stubs, handwritten notes, or small souvenirs in shadow boxes. This creates a multi-dimensional display that tells a story beyond just visuals.
Canvas Prints
Turn your favourite family photos into canvas prints. The texture and depth of canvas prints bring a tactile element to your photographs, making them appear more like paintings. Canvas prints are versatile and can be customised in various sizes to fit any wall space.
About Lifestyle Photography
Unlike traditional studio photography, lifestyle sessions focus on real-life situations, interactions, and everyday moments. If you're thinking of booking a lifestyle photography session, please read below to discover what makes this style so unique and why it might be the perfect choice for you.
What is Lifestyle Photography?
At its core, lifestyle photography is about telling a story. It's about freezing moments in time, not through staged poses, but by capturing genuine, unfiltered experiences. By documenting people in their natural environments, and embracing the spontaneity of life, we can create visually stunning narratives that reflect true personalities and relationships.
The Beauty of Authenticity
One of the primary reasons people gravitate toward lifestyle photography is its emphasis on authenticity. Instead of stiff smiles and forced expressions, lifestyle sessions capture the raw emotions that make us human – laughter, tenderness, curiosity, and even vulnerability. Whether it's a child's innocent giggle, a shared glance between partners, or the comforting embrace of family.
Creating Lasting Memories
Lifestyle photography sessions often result in a collection of images that transport you back to the exact feelings and atmosphere of the moment. Whether it's a couple's session, a family gathering, or even documenting your daily routine, these photographs encapsulate that specific moment in time. As the years pass, these images serve as a beautiful reminder of the love, laughter, and connection shared with your loved ones.
The Art of Storytelling
Through observation and creative eye, every photograph becomes a chapter, and together, they form a compelling story – your story. Whether it's the joy of a newborn's first smile, the quiet moments of reflection, or the happy celebrations, lifestyle photography documents the nuances that make your life uniquely yours.
Benefits of family photography
1. Preserving memories
Life is a series of fleeting moments – the first steps, the first laugh, a warm embrace. Family photography immortalises these moments, so you can look back on them in year's to come.
2. Documenting Growth and Change
Children grow up so fast, and family photography allows you to document their growth and changing personalities.
3. Creating Heirlooms
Family photographs are more than just pictures; they are heirlooms passed down through generations. Imagine your grandchildren and great-grandchildren flipping through these images and connecting with their roots.
4. Perfect Gifts
Family photographs make for wonderful gifts. Whether it's for a milestone anniversary, a birthday, or the holiday season, gifting a beautifully framed family portrait is always a wonderful gift.
Prompts For Getting Natural Family Photos
When photographing families, I always aim to capture the genuine moments of interaction. I have listed some of the ways I will prompt you during your session, so that we can record authentic exchanges that don't feel forced.
1. The Classic Huddle
2. Walking Hand in Hand
3. Piggyback Rides
4. Playful Sibling Interactions- whisper a secret to each other, play tag, hug
5. Parental Love
6. Laughing Together and telling jonkes
7. Candid Conversations
Location spotlight: Castle Neroche, Blackdown Hills
Castle Neroche is a beautiful spot only a twenty minute drive from Taunton. The foot paths, forest tracks and trees are all ideal backdrops for your photos.
There is an opportunity for posed photographs amongst the scenery, but also the opportunity for your family to walk, play, have fun and capture some candid moments.
For more information about the area, you can visit their website by clicking here.