How to Choose a Venue That Matches Your Creative Vision (and Isn’t Boring!)
Let’s face it: your wedding venue sets the tone for everything. It’s the stage on which your story unfolds, so why settle for just another generic ballroom or rustic barn? If you’re working in London’s creative scene, surrounded by visionary campaigns, killer art exhibitions, and design-forward thinking, your wedding should reflect the same level of originality and style.
Sure, we’d all love to tie the knot overlooking Lake Como with George and Amal Clooney nodding approvingly from their terrace. But let’s be real—your budget might look more Manchester townhouse than Italian villa. That doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. It means leaning into what makes you unique and finding a venue that echoes your creative voice.
1. Start With Your Story
Think about where you’ve been, what you love, and what feels like you. Maybe it’s the Kent countryside you grew up in, with golden fields and sprawling estates that offer a contemporary twist on the pastoral. Or perhaps it’s a restored warehouse in Manchester that oozes urban cool, with exposed brick and industrial lighting. The best venues are those that resonate with your history while making a statement about your future.
2. Think About Design and Flexibility
As someone with an eye for aesthetics, you’ll want a venue that complements your style, not competes with it. Look for spaces that feel like a blank canvas—a modern manor with clean lines, a sunlit gallery space, or even an outdoor spot with stunning architecture nearby. Avoid venues that come with an overload of pre-packaged “charm.” You know the type: heavy floral wallpaper, outdated carpeting, and chairs that scream corporate event.
3. Light Is Everything
As a photographer, trust me on this: light can make or break the vibe. Look for venues with large windows, soft natural light, or dramatic contrasts that can create mood and depth. If you’re planning an evening event, think about how lighting design can elevate the space—think Edison bulbs, candles en masse, or a statement chandelier.
4. Location With Character
Your guests are as stylish as you are, so find a location that’s as much about the experience as the look. Maybe it’s a boutique hotel with killer interiors or a Kent manor surrounded by vineyards. If you’re going urban, find a venue that blends industrial grit with modern charm—like a rooftop in Shoreditch or an artsy studio space in Manchester.
5. Forget Tradition (If It’s Not Your Thing)
Who says your venue has to be a “wedding venue”? Some of the most stunning celebrations I’ve shot have been in unexpected places: a contemporary art museum, a chic co-working space after hours, or even a cozy family home styled to perfection. The key is to think outside the box and ask, “Does this feel like us?”
At the end of the day, the right venue doesn’t just house your wedding—it elevates it. For creative couples with an eye for design, it’s about finding a space that acts as a canvas for your vision. Whether you’re saying “I do” in Kent’s lush countryside, a Manchester gem with industrial edge, or a cool hidden spot in London, let your venue be the backdrop to something bold, unforgettable, and unmistakably you.
If you’re on the hunt for a photographer who shares your appreciation for details and design, I’m here for it. Let’s make your wedding day as striking as your vision.
