1.  Think about what you want.  What you really want.  Forget about flexing or emulating this year's hottest celeb couple's wedding - that's the fastest route to Dullsville!  Photos inevitably date.  Ensure you look back at your wedding photos with unbridled joy.  If your wedding reflects your authentic self, they will never get old and you'll never question your choices.

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2.  Do what makes you happy.  This follows on neatly from number 1, but really think about it.  Are you happiest immersed in nature, barefoot on a beach, marvelling at the moon on Halloween or dancing at a festival?  Whatever your answer, take the party there!  It might not be the logistical nightmare you imagine.  There are many ways to wed, e.g. just the two of you with a celebrant and a minimoon, a back yard wedding, wild elopement or micro wedding (less than 20 people) with a bigger, separate party on another date....spread the joy!

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The UK is catching onto the destination wedding vibe and we're spoilt for choice now; from tipis, to barns, to woodland glades to quirky beach front venues.  There are also plenty of posh pads and Airbnbs available to cater for you and your family and friends.  Remember!  It's your day and (subject to budget) you should do it your way, not to please some distant Aunt.

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3. Outfits.  When it comes to wedding dresses, consider sustainable.  If you're environmentally conscious, you will know that we have enough clothing to clothe the planet's population several times over.  Charities sometimes have designated online boutiques and Vinted can throw up some cut price gems.  If you're an alternative, there's a world of possibilities.  Think Goth, Steampunk, Boho and vintage (Hollywood Ingenue, Hollywood Glamour, Mod, Studio 54, Free Spirit, Punk?)  Whilst you can still expect to pay a little more for a beautiful vintage outfit, they are unlikely to command the same prices as new bridal gowns.  You could also go wild and get some trash the dress pics at the end of the day.  Also consider hiring!  Vintage dress agencies, groomswear and bridal gown hire is a thing.  Oh, and if you're planning to wear heels, always consider a second pair of comfy shoes or get that pedicure so you can go barefoot.

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4.  The venue.  Meet with the venue managers.  Arrange a tour and satisfy yourself that there are no hidden costs.  Family run venues often go that extra mile.  Alternatively, consider eloping (see no. 5).  Again this can give you almost endless possibilities and make for uniquely beautiful photos.

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5.  Elopement ceremonies are non traditional and highly personalised ceremonies conducted by celebrants.  They could take place on a clifftop, in a woodland glade or even your own back garden!  Venues might have a civil license but if not, they will have a list of recommended suppliers, including celebrants.  Many celebrants offer ancient hand fasting ceremonies, ring blessings and other spiritual rituals utilising crystals and candles.  Couples opting for a non traditional ceremony usually do the legal bit separately a couple of weeks before at their local Registry Office with the requisite two witnesses.

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6.  Choosing your photographer.  Think about the style of photos you would like - e.g. formal, creative, documentary.  Talk to photographers.  We know how big a deal this is and want you to be happy.  I always offer a no strings informal chat to see if we're a good fit and keep in touch periodically prior to the event.  Never be afraid to ask questions and being visual beings, examples of our work will usually be plastered across social media and on our web pages.  Also ask how many photos you are likely to receive!

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7.  Wedding Fayres.  These can be fun but also overwhelming with a sea of suppliers vying for your business.  Try to draw up a wish list in advance, e.g.  sustainable stationer, documentary photographer, wood fired pizza van, festival games, or simply go along for some inspiration and do your own research online.

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8.  Friends/Family Politics.  Worried about how to include your best friends in your day?  Don't be constrained by tradition.  Create your own bespoke roles for people if necessary, from dog ring bearers to photo shepherds (my own term for those responsible for rounding up and organising people for group photos), to speeches and readings.  If you have a musical friend or budding poet in the family, put their skills to good use!

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9. We did it!  Confetti?  Bubbles?  Smoke bombs?  Don't forget to check with the venue for any house rules.

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10.  Dealing with the Weather Gods.  Consider umbrellas, wellies, Crocs, blankets, fans, water pistols, access to chilled water and flexible ceremony set ups for shelter from the rain or to combat intense heat.

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Last word!  Talk to me about my recommended wedding suppliers and favourite venues and beauty spots.