Wedding Planning Tips for Couples in Staffordshire

(Simple, Honest Wedding Planning Tips from a Local Photographer)

Planning a wedding can be exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between. From finding the perfect venue to working out your timings, there are so many decisions to make — and it’s easy to get lost in the details.

As someone who’s photographed weddings across Staffordshire and the West Midlands, I’ve seen first-hand how a few simple choices can make a huge difference to how relaxed your day feels. So, whether you’re tying the knot in a countryside barn, a stately home, or a tipi in a field, here are some straightforward wedding planning tips to help you enjoy every moment.

1. Start with What Matters Most

Before booking anything, talk about what’s most important to both of you. Is it amazing food? A big party? A small, intimate ceremony? Knowing your priorities early helps shape everything else — from your venue to your budget — and keeps planning focused and personal.

2. Visit Local Staffordshire Venues Early

Staffordshire has some incredible wedding venues, from country barns to elegant estates and canal-side spaces. Venues like these often book up well in advance, so it’s worth arranging visits early to get a feel for what suits your style and guest list.

When you visit, pay attention to things like lighting, flow of the day, and nearby accommodation — they make a big difference to your experience.

3. Build a Realistic Timeline

It’s easy to underestimate how long everything takes. Hair and makeup, travel, group photos — they all add up. Creating a simple timeline with your suppliers helps keep the day relaxed and stops you feeling rushed. Leave a few short breaks throughout the day to breathe, take it in, and just enjoy it all.

4. Think About the Season

Planning a wedding in Staffordshire means thinking about the British weather — and the daylight.

• Spring and summer bring longer days and outdoor celebrations.

• Autumn and winter weddings are cosy and romantic, but light fades faster, so plan your ceremony times accordingly.

Have a backup plan for outdoor elements — just in case — and you’ll never need to stress about rain.

5. Choose Local, Trusted Suppliers

One of the best parts of planning in Staffordshire is the amazing community of local wedding suppliers — florists, caterers, stylists, musicians and more. Choosing local suppliers often makes coordination easier and helps create a relaxed, well-organised day.

6. Focus on the Experience, Not Perfection

It’s easy to get caught up in trends and details, but the weddings people remember most are the ones full of laughter, connection, and genuine moments. Don’t worry if things don’t go perfectly — they rarely do! What matters most is that the day feels like you.

7. Biggest Wedding Planning Tip! Take Time for Each Other

In the middle of it all, remember to pause. Step away together, even just for a few minutes, to take in the fact that you’re married — it’s often couples’ favourite part of the whole day.

If you’re planning your wedding in Staffordshire or the West Midlands and want relaxed, natural photography that captures the story of your day, I’d love to hear from you.

📸 See more of my work or get in touch via ashleystandlandweddingphotography.co.uk