What Time Should We Have Our Ceremony? | Aberdeenshire Wedding Photographer

The golden hour glow. The soft light dancing on your veil. The moment you step into forever, wrapped in warmth and love. As an Aberdeenshire wedding photographer, I know choosing your ceremony time isn’t just a tick-box on your timeline—it’s one of the big decisions that shapes your whole wedding day.

So let’s have a little heart-to-heart about light, love, and logistics… because I promise, it’s more than just what time you say “I do.”

Why I Always Recommend an Earlier Ceremony for Stunning Photos and More Time

If you ask me, an Aberdeenshire Wedding Photographer, 1pm or 1:30pm is the sweet spot. Why? Because an earlier ceremony gives you the gift of time.

Here’s the thing: you’re spending thousands on a venue, a dream team of vendors, and a celebration surrounded by the people you love most. Why spend half the day tucked away in a bedroom waiting for it to start?

You booked a wedding to get married – to be present, to soak up every hug, to clink every glass. An earlier ceremony means more time with your guests, more time enjoying that cocktail hour you’ve planned so beautifully, and less time watching the clock.

Plus, from a photography perspective (hello 👋🏼), earlier ceremonies = better light and a more relaxed pace. A later ceremony can sometimes mean rushing through family photos, bridal party portraits, and your couple session… or missing some altogether because daylight just doesn’t wait.

A Real Aberdeenshire Wedding Story: The 10am Ceremony That Stole My Heart

I’ll never forget one couple who chose a 10am ceremony. At first, it sounded early– but in the end, it turned out to be one of the most relaxed, joyful days I’ve photographed.

They were married by 10:30am, had their couple portraits done with the soft morning light, and enjoyed a leisurely afternoon dinner. Later, they hosted a second drinks reception in the stunning Titan Dome at Meldrum House (honestly – what a vibe). The whole day felt unhurried, intentional, and soaked in celebration.

It was a powerful reminder that your ceremony time sets the tone for your day. Whether you want all-day festivities or a more intimate gathering, choosing a time that allows breathing room makes everything feel smoother.

Planning an Aberdeenshire Winter Wedding? Why an Early Ceremony is Essential for Beautiful Photos

Winter couples, I see you ❄️ – and here’s my top tip: plan your ceremony as early as possible.

With fewer daylight hours, especially here in Aberdeenshire, you’ll want to maximise that precious natural light for your couple portraits and group photos. An early ceremony means we’ll have more time for beautiful, glowy images before the sun slips away.

But… There Are No Rules

At the end of the day? There’s no right or wrong answer. Your wedding is yours. You don’t need to follow traditions or timelines that don’t feel true to you.

Want to marry at sunrise with just the two of you? Amazing. Dreaming of a candlelit evening ceremony? Let’s make it happen.

I’m here to gently guide you through the options, showing you how timing impacts light, logistics, and your experience – but ultimately, you do you.

Need an Aberdeenshire Wedding Photographer Who’s Got Your Back?

If you’re newly engaged and navigating allll the decisions ahead, I’d love to be in your corner. From timelines to light to making sure you get every photo you’ve dreamed of (and the ones you didn’t even know you wanted), I’m here for it.

Head over to my contact page to start the conversation, or check out my wedding photography collections to learn more.

Here’s to light, love, and a wedding day that feels just like you. ✨

xo Samantha