Expectation vs Hope: A Photographer’s Perspective on Growth, Clients, and Creative Flow

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As photographers and creative entrepreneurs, we often walk a fine line between passion and pressure. While chasing dream clients, building a brand, and striving to stand out in a saturated market, one key mindset shift can radically transform our journey: understanding the difference between expectation and hope.

This might sound subtle, but in practice, the distinction can shape everything from how we handle rejection, to how we create, communicate, and grow. In this post, we’ll explore expectation vs. hope through the lens of photography, with real-world applications for business, creativity, and personal well-being.

What is the Difference Between Expectation and Hope?

Expectation

Expectation is a belief that something should happen. It often carries a sense of entitlement or certainty. When we expect something, we attach ourselves to a specific outcome and feel disappointed, frustrated, or even resentful if it doesn’t go our way.

In photography business terms: Expectation might look like assuming a client will book you because you had a great consultation, or believing a post will go viral because you used all the trending hashtags.

Hope

Hope, on the other hand, is a desire for something to happen, coupled with the acceptance that it may or may not. It’s softer, lighter, and less controlling. Hope doesn’t demand; it wishes. Hope allows for openness, adaptability, and resilience.

In photography: Hope might be feeling excited about a pitch you sent to a travel brand, knowing it may lead to a collaboration, but being okay if it doesn’t because something else might be around the corner.

Why Does This Matter for Photographers?

In the world of freelance photography, managing your mindset can be the secret sauce to long-term success and creative fulfillment. Expectations can lead to stress and burnout. Hope fuels endurance, curiosity, and authentic connection.

1. Client Interactions: Booking, Ghosting, and Follow-Ups

Photographers often spend hours building proposals, mood boards, and client communications. Naturally, we expect a return: a booking, a deposit, a “yes.”

But here’s the reality: People ghost. Budgets change. Priorities shift.

When we operate from expectation, a no-show or non-reply feels like personal rejection. We start doubting ourselves.

But when we approach with hope: “I hope this client sees the value in my work. If not, it’s not a reflection of my worth,” we stay grounded. We learn, adjust, and keep moving.

2. Social Media: Engagement, Algorithms, and Validation

Instagram and TikTok are part of a modern photographer’s marketing toolkit. But they’re also emotionally loaded spaces.

We post, expecting likes, shares, and comments. We compare our reach and start tying our value to metrics. That expectation leads to burnout.

Shifting to hope might look like: “I hope this post inspires someone or connects me to the right person. If not, I still created something valuable.”

This reduces pressure and reignites joy.

3. Creative Projects: Personal Work and Portfolio Building

Creativity thrives in freedom. But when we approach a personal project expecting recognition, publication, or virality, it becomes a performance. We censor ourselves, we hesitate, we burn out.

With hope, we pursue projects because they matter to us. We share because we want to connect, not impress. This authentic approach often does resonate — because it’s real.

4. Long-Term Business Goals: Growth and Sustainability

Expectation: “If I hustle for two years, I deserve to be fully booked and financially secure.”

Hope: “I hope my consistent work leads to growth, but I know the path may zig-zag.”

Hope gives us the grace to weather slow seasons, evolve our niche, and find unexpected opportunities. Expectation turns the journey into a checklist with high-stakes pressure.

Real-World Examples from a Photography Career

Let’s put theory into practice. Here are real examples from the trenches of freelance photography:

📸 A Corporate Event Shoot

You create a proposal for a corporate client. You’ve had two amazing meetings. You’re already mentally spending the fee.

Expectation: When they choose someone else, you’re crushed, and wonder, “What did I do wrong?”

Hope: You feel disappointed, but think, “That wasn’t meant for me. Let me follow up with the next lead.”

🌟 A Viral Food Photography Post

You styled and shot a beautiful series. You’re sure it will trend.

Expectation: It flops. You question your aesthetic. Maybe you’re not as good as you thought?

Hope: You remind yourself the algorithm is fickle. You still love your work. You post again tomorrow.

🚀 Pitching to Dream Clients

You reach out to Lonely Planet or a local tourism board. You feel it in your bones — this could be big!

Expectation: No response leaves you discouraged.

Hope: You trust your portfolio is growing stronger, and you pitch again, maybe even better.

Expectation vs Hope: Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect	Expectation	Hope
Emotional tone	Rigid, demanding	Flexible, open
Outcome attachment	Tied to one specific result	Allows multiple outcomes
Response to failure	Frustration, self-doubt	Acceptance, curiosity
Creative impact	Fear-driven, perfectionist	Freedom to experiment
Business resilience	Fragile – breaks when outcomes aren’t met	Durable – adapts and persists
Relationship building	Can create pressure or entitlement	Builds trust and patience

How to Cultivate Hope Over Expectation in Your Photography Career

Set Intentions, Not Demands
- Swap “I need this to happen” with “I’d love for this to happen, but I’ll be okay either way.”
Celebrate the Process, Not Just the Outcome
- Share behind-the-scenes. Talk about what you learned. Let people into your creative flow.
Detach From Metrics
- Focus on connection, not likes. Post what you love, not just what performs.
Diversify Your Income and Creative Outlets
- Having multiple revenue streams or creative projects reduces pressure on any one thing.
Reflect Often
- Journal about your wins, lessons, and growth. This grounds your hope in progress.

Final Thoughts: Lead With Hope, Not Expectation

In both photography and life, expectation narrows our vision. Hope expands it.

As a photographer, you won’t always be booked solid. Not every pitch will get a reply. Not every image will trend. But if you lead with hope — grounded in effort, fueled by love for your craft — you’ll go further and feel better doing it.

Create. Share. Pitch. Repeat. Hope for the best, prepare for all outcomes, and know that every step is part of the story.

Because in this creative life, hope isn’t weakness — it’s your quiet superpower.

Illuminate Your Shots: Top 5 Tips for Stunning Low Light Photography

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Hey there, photography enthusiasts! 🌟 Just so you know, this post contains affiliate links. Clicking on them won’t cost you a single extra penny, but it might help me earn a small commission to fund my next late-night photo adventure (and perhaps a cup of coffee or two!). Thanks for your support—you rock! 📸✨

Ever tried snapping a photo at dusk or indoors without much lighting, only to end up with a dark, grainy image that does not do the moment justice? You are not alone! Low light photography can be tricky, but it is also a fantastic opportunity to get creative and capture stunning images you would not achieve in broad daylight. Whether it is a cozy candlelit dinner, a lively concert, or a serene night landscape, low light conditions can add a magical touch to your photos.

But how do you make the most of these dimly lit scenes without ending up with a blurry mess? Grab your camera and let us dive into five expert tips that will help you shine bright in low light!

I am always working with Nikon D750 (which is not produced anymore, check Nikon D780 instead) or with mirrorless Nikon Z7II and Nikon lenses, which I highly recommend but you do you and research the market before you make decision which brand you prefer.

1. Open with a Wider Aperture

Imagine your camera’s aperture as the pupil of an eye—it controls how much light gets in. In low light situations, you will want to open that pupil wide to let in as much light as possible.

Why Aperture Matters

More Light, Better Exposure: A wider aperture (which means a smaller f-number like f/1.8 or f/2.8) allows more light to hit your camera’s sensor. This is crucial when ambient light is scarce.

Shallow Depth of Field: A wide aperture creates a pleasing blur in the background, making your subject stand out. It is perfect for portraits where you want the focus on a person’s face while the background softly fades away.

Choosing the Right Lens

Prime Lenses Are Your Friends: Prime lenses (those with a fixed focal length) often have larger maximum apertures than zoom lenses. For instance, a 50mm f/1.8 lens is affordable and excellent for low light.

My Go-To Gear: Personally, I love using a Nikon FE 24-70mm f/2.8 and Nikon Z 70 – 200mm f/2.8 lenses. It gives me versatility in focal lengths while still offering a decent maximum aperture for low light situations.

Fun Fact

Did you know that the term “f-number” is a ratio? It is the focal length divided by the diameter of the aperture. So, a smaller f-number means a larger aperture!

2. Increase the ISO (But Keep an Eye on Noise)

ISO is like your camera’s sensitivity to light. Cranking it up helps you capture images in darker settings without a flash. But there is a catch—higher ISO can introduce noise, those annoying grainy specks that can ruin an otherwise great shot.

Balancing ISO and Image Quality

Find Your Camera’s Sweet Spot: Modern cameras handle high ISO much better than older models. Test your camera to see how high you can push the ISO before the noise becomes unacceptable.

Full-Frame Cameras Shine: Cameras like the Sony A9 II, Canon EOS 1DX Mark III, or Nikon Z9 perform exceptionally well at high ISO settings. They let you shoot at ISO 3200 or even higher with minimal noise.

Pro Tips

Noise Reduction Software: Programs like Adobe Lightroom have noise reduction features that can help clean up your images in post-processing.

Expose Correctly: Underexposed images amplified in post-processing show more noise than images correctly exposed at higher ISO.

Quick Anecdote

I once shot a concert where the lighting was non-existent. By pushing my ISO to 6400 and carefully adjusting my other settings, I captured vibrant images that conveyed the energy of the performance without excessive noise.

3. Slow Down Your Shutter Speed

Shutter speed determines how long your camera’s sensor is exposed to light. Slower shutter speeds mean more light, but they also increase the risk of blur from camera shake or moving subjects.

Mastering Shutter Speed

Understand the Basics: Shutter speeds are typically measured in fractions of a second (e.g., 1/60, 1/125). A slower shutter speed like 1/15 lets in more light than 1/125.

Use a Tripod: To counteract camera shake, especially at slower shutter speeds, a tripod is invaluable. It keeps your camera steady, ensuring sharper images.

Subject Movement: If your subject is stationary, slower shutter speeds work great. For moving subjects, you might need to find a balance to avoid motion blur.

Get Creative with Blur

Intentional Motion Blur: Sometimes, a bit of blur adds artistic flair. Think of light trails from cars at night or the soft flow of a waterfall.

Use Image Stabilisation: Some cameras and lenses have built-in stabilisation (IBIS or OIS) that helps reduce blur from slight movements.

DIY Stabilisation

No tripod? No problem! Improvise by resting your camera on a steady surface like a wall, table, or even a backpack. I have balanced my camera on all sorts of objects in a pinch!

4. Introduce Additional Light Sources

All right, this might feel like bending the rules, but adding light can dramatically improve your low light photography.

Using Flash and External Lights

On-Camera Flash: Built-in flashes can be harsh. Try diffusing the light by attaching a small piece of white paper or plastic over the flash.

External Flash Units: These offer more control. You can bounce the flash off ceilings or walls to spread the light more evenly. I am using Nikon speed light SB-5000 and it is great.

Continuous Lighting: LED panels or even a smartphone flashlight can provide a constant light source.

Making the Most of Available Light

Seek Out Ambient Light: Street lamps, neon signs, candles, or even the glow from a laptop screen can add interesting lighting to your photos.

Adjust Your Position: Sometimes, moving your subject closer to a light source or changing your angle can make a significant difference.

Creative Lighting Hacks

Reflectors: Use reflective surfaces like mirrors, white boards, or aluminium foil to bounce light onto your subject.

DIY Solutions: In a dark restaurant without a flash? I have used menus, napkins, and even water glasses to reflect candlelight onto my subject.

A Fun Experiment

Once, I used a string of fairy lights as a makeshift light source during a nighttime portrait session. Not only did it illuminate the subject, but it also added a whimsical element to the photos!

5. Shoot in RAW Format

Shooting in RAW captures all the data from your camera’s sensor, giving you more flexibility to edit and adjust your images later.

Advantages of RAW

Recover Details: You can pull back details from shadows and highlights that might be lost in a JPEG.

Better Colour Correction: Adjust white balance and colour profiles without degrading image quality.

Enhanced Editing: Fine-tune exposure, contrast, and sharpness with more precision.

Considerations When Shooting RAW

Larger File Sizes: RAW files are significantly bigger than JPEGs. Ensure you have enough storage on your memory cards and hard drives.

Need for Processing: RAW images require post-processing with software like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or other RAW editors.

lower Workflow: The extra step of processing RAW files means it takes longer to get to your final image.

Why It is Worth It

The ability to adjust your low light photos after the fact can be a game-changer. I have saved many images that seemed too dark or noisy by tweaking the RAW files in post-processing.

FAQs

What Should I Keep in Mind for Low Light Photography?

Be Patient and Experiment: Low light photography often requires trial and error. Do not be afraid to take multiple shots with different settings.

Know the Exposure Triangle: Understanding how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together is crucial.

Watch for Noise and Blur: Balance your settings to minimise noise (from high ISO) and blur (from slow shutter speeds).

Use Manual Mode: Automatic settings might not cut it in low light. Manual mode gives you full control over your camera.

Check Your Histogram: This tool helps you understand the exposure of your image, ensuring you are capturing the full range of details.

Which Equipment Do I Need for Low Light Photography?

Fast Lenses: Invest in lenses with wide apertures (like f/1.8 or f/2.8).

Sturdy Tripod: A must-have for stabilising your camera during long exposures.

External Flash or Lighting: Provides additional light when natural light is not enough.

Full-Frame Camera: There are cameras which have larger sensors that perform better in low light. Research before you make your choice.

High-Capacity Memory Cards: Shooting in RAW and high-resolution formats requires more storage space. I am using SanDisk Extreme PRO and am very happy with them.

What is the Right ISO to Use?

It Depends on Your Camera and Situation: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some cameras, ISO 1600 might be the limit; others can handle ISO 6400 or higher.

Aim for the Lowest Acceptable ISO: Increase ISO only as much as needed to achieve proper exposure without introducing excessive noise.

Test and Learn: Spend time understanding how your specific camera model handles different ISO settings in various lighting conditions.

Use Noise Reduction Techniques: Both in-camera settings and post-processing software can help manage noise.

Final Thoughts

Low light photography does not have to be daunting. In fact, it opens a whole new world of creative possibilities. By understanding and manipulating your camera’s settings—aperture, shutter speed, and ISO—you can capture stunning images that evoke mood, drama, and atmosphere.

Remember, photography is both a science and an art. While technical knowledge is essential, do not forget to let your creativity shine. Experiment with different techniques, play with shadows and light, and most importantly, have fun with it!

So next time you find yourself in a dimly lit setting, do not shy away from pulling out your camera. Embrace the challenge, apply these tips, and watch your low light photography skills light up!

Happy shooting!

Understanding the Price Spectrum of Wedding Photography: From £500 to £10,000

#wedding, engagement, wedding day

When planning a wedding, one of the crucial decisions is choosing a photographer. The range in pricing can be vast, from as low as £500 to as high as £10,000 or more. So, what differentiates a £500 wedding photographer from a £10,000 one? It’s not just about the pictures captured during the event; it’s about the overall experience, expertise, and the value added before, during, and after the wedding.

1. Experience and Expertise: The most significant difference lies in the experience and expertise of the photographer. A £10,000 photographer typically brings a wealth of experience, with a deep understanding of wedding dynamics, lighting, composition, and the ability to capture candid moments and emotions. This level of expertise ensures a higher quality of work, often apparent in their portfolio. In contrast, a £500 photographer might be new to the industry or working part-time, which can reflect in the quality and consistency of their photos.

2. Pre and Post-Wedding Engagement: High-end photographers often provide comprehensive services that include pre-wedding consultations, engagement photo sessions, and detailed discussions about the wedding day. They might assist in planning the photography schedule, ensuring that all important moments are captured. Post-wedding, these photographers typically offer professional editing, creating albums and prints, and even providing a sneak peek of images shortly after the wedding. This level of engagement is less likely to be found with lower-priced options.

3. Equipment and Backup: Professional photographers invest heavily in high-quality equipment, including multiple cameras, lenses, lighting, and backups for everything. This investment is crucial to handle the unexpected and ensures the highest quality of images in various lighting conditions. A £500 photographer may not have access to such equipment or the backup necessary for a seamless experience.

4. Additional Services and Team: At the higher end of the spectrum, photographers often come with a team, including second shooters and assistants, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the event. They might offer additional services like drone photography, same-day edits, online galleries, luxury print albums, and professional videos. These additional services are generally beyond the scope of lower-priced photographers.

5. Reliability and Professionalism: With a higher price tag comes a higher level of professionalism and reliability. High-end photographers often have business insurance, contracts, and a registered business, ensuring a professional and secure service. Conversely, lower-priced photographers might lack these business essentials, which can be a risk.

6. Style and Artistry: Premium photographers often have a distinct style and artistic approach, offering images that are not just photographs but pieces of art. They have the skill to create unique, emotional, and storytelling images that stand out. Lower-priced photographers might offer more standard, cookie-cutter style images.

7. The Risk Factor: When considering a lower-priced photographer for your wedding, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks involved. While not all budget photographers will lead to a negative experience, the probability of encountering issues is significantly higher in the lower price bracket.

* Reliability Concerns: One of the most common risks with lower-priced photographers is reliability. There have been numerous instances where photographers have failed to show up on the wedding day or disappeared post-wedding without delivering the photos. This lack of professionalism can turn what is supposed to be a joyous occasion into a stressful and disappointing experience.

* Quality of Work: Often, the low cost reflects a lack of experience or professional training. This inexperience can result in missed crucial moments like the first kiss, the exchange of vows, or candid moments between loved ones. Additionally, they might struggle with challenging lighting conditions or crowded settings, leading to poor-quality images.

* Limited Resources and Backup Plans: Lower-priced photographers might not have access to high-quality equipment or backup gear, which is essential for handling unexpected situations like equipment failure. They might also lack the necessary assistants or second shooters, which can limit the coverage of your wedding, especially in larger or more complex venues.

* Post-Processing and Editing: The editing process is where a photo transforms from a simple snapshot to a work of art. Budget photographers may lack the skills or resources for professional editing, which can significantly impact the final quality of the photos. This can lead to images that are bland, improperly exposed, or fail to capture the true ambiance of your wedding.

* Legal and Business Considerations: Lower-priced photographers might not operate as registered businesses, lacking the necessary insurance or contracts to protect both parties. This can be a significant risk if disputes or issues arise post-wedding.

* No Accountability or Reputation to Uphold: Unlike high-end professionals who have a reputation to maintain, lower-priced photographers might not have a significant online presence or a portfolio of work that can be scrutinized. This lack of accountability means they might not be as committed to delivering high-quality work or adhering to professional standards.

* Investing in Peace of Mind: By contrast, investing in a high-end photographer offers peace of mind. These professionals are committed to their craft and reputation. They come equipped with high-quality gear, backup equipment, and a team if necessary. They have the experience to navigate the unforeseen challenges of a wedding day, ensuring that all crucial moments are beautifully captured.

8. Personal Connection: Choosing a photographer for your wedding is a deeply personal decision. The personal connection between the couple and the photographer is pivotal, particularly when considering high-end photographers. This connection transcends mere business transaction and becomes a collaborative journey.

* Understanding Your Story: A skilled, higher-priced photographer invests time in understanding your story – how you met, your journey together, and what your wedding signifies for you. This understanding allows them to capture images that are not just visually stunning but also emotionally resonant and deeply personal.

* Building Trust: Such photographers often prioritize building trust and rapport. They are likely to meet with you multiple times, be available for discussions, and show genuine interest in your ideas and concerns. This level of engagement builds a comfort level that can be incredibly beneficial on the wedding day, allowing for more natural and relaxed photography.

* Tailoring the Experience: Every couple is unique, and a photographer who understands this will tailor their approach accordingly. They might offer personalized suggestions for locations, themes, or styles based on what they learn about you. This customization can lead to a more satisfying and bespoke photographic experience.

* Emotional Intelligence: High-end photographers often possess a strong sense of emotional intelligence. They can read the room, understand dynamics among family members and guests, and anticipate moments before they happen. This skill is crucial in capturing those fleeting, candid moments that define the spirit of your wedding.

* Beyond the Wedding Day: The connection often extends beyond the wedding day. These photographers might stay in touch, offering services for future life events like anniversaries, maternity shoots, or family portraits. Such ongoing relationships can lead to a more profound understanding and capture of your evolving story over time.

9. Market Variations: It’s important to note that these price ranges can vary significantly based on geographic location and market demand. In some regions, £500 might fetch a relatively experienced photographer, whereas, in others, it wouldn’t cover the basics.

10. Conclusion: In essence, when choosing a wedding photographer, it’s crucial to consider what’s included in the package, but also the experience, reliability, and artistry they bring to your special day. A £10,000 photographer should offer not just a service, but an experience – from the initial consultation to the final delivery of stunning, high-quality images and albums. Conversely, a £500 photographer might suit couples with a tight budget or those willing to take a risk on someone potentially less experienced. Ultimately, the choice reflects a balance between budget constraints and the value placed on capturing those once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Making the Most of Your Photographer Meeting: Questions to Ask and Photo Ideas for Your Big Day

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Your wedding day is a celebration of love, a culmination of your journey together, and a day filled with cherished moments. The significance of capturing these precious memories cannot be overstated. Your wedding photographer is the artist tasked with freezing these heartfelt emotions, joyous expressions, and intricate details into frames that will tell your love story for generations to come. As you prepare for this monumental day, a meeting with your photographer can help ensure that every essential moment is captured flawlessly. In this blog post, I will guide you through the questions to ask your photographer and provide a range of creative photo ideas to request. By effectively communicating your preferences and understanding your photographer’s approach, you can set the stage for photography that reflects the essence of your big day.

Questions to Ask Your Photographer:

Portfolio Review: Begin by discussing the photographer’s portfolio. Ask them to share some of their favorite wedding shots and inquire about the style they specialize in. This will help you align your expectations with their expertise.
Experience: How many weddings have they shot? Inquire about their familiarity with the venue and whether they have experience with similar wedding sizes or themes.
Coverage and Timing: Clarify the photographer’s coverage time and whether they’ll capture the entire event from getting ready to the reception. Discuss any potential overtime charges.
Team and Backup Plan: If the photographer is working with a team, meet the team members if possible. Additionally, ask about their backup plan in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Editing and Delivery: Inquire about the editing process, the timeline for receiving edited photos, and the format in which they’ll be delivered (digital files, prints, albums, etc.).
Engagement Session: If not discussed already, ask about the possibility of an engagement session. This can help you get comfortable in front of the camera before the big day.
Contract and Pricing: Discuss the contract terms, including payment schedule, cancellation policy, and what’s included in the package. Make sure you have a clear understanding of pricing.

Photo Ideas to Request:

Getting Ready Shots: Request candid moments as you and your bridal party prepare for the day. These shots can capture the excitement and anticipation.

First Look: If you’re having a first look, make sure to have it photographed. This emotional moment can result in some of the most genuine reactions.

Details and Décor: Ask your photographer to focus on capturing intricate details such as the rings, bouquet, centrepieces, and other décor elements that contribute to the theme.

Candid Moments: Candid shots of your guests, especially during heartfelt speeches and emotional moments, can provide a genuine snapshot of the day’s atmosphere.

Family and Group Photos: Compile a list of important family and friend groupings you want to be photographed. This ensures that no one is left out of the frame.

Couple Portraits: Plan a session for couple portraits that captures your love and the essence of your relationship.

Venue and Landscape: Depending on the location, include shots that showcase the beauty of the venue or the surrounding landscape.

Dance and Celebration: Have your photographer capture the joy and energy on the dance floor during the reception.

Quiet Moments: If possible, set aside time for your photographer to capture intimate, quiet moments between you and your partner.

Do Something Crazy Shot: Encourage your photographer to capture a playful and adventurous side of your personalities. Consider doing something unexpected, like jumping in the air, striking a dramatic pose, or incorporating a fun prop. This shot adds a touch of spontaneity and excitement to your photo collection, showcasing your willingness to embrace the joy of the moment.

Remember, your wedding day is a unique reflection of your love story, and your photographer is there to capture the essence of that story. Your wedding photography journey is a collaborative effort that begins with clear communication. Your photographer is not just a vendor; they are the storyteller of your special day. By discussing these ideas and asking the right questions, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring that your wedding photos are a beautiful representation of your special day. Communication is key to ensuring your photographer understands your vision and expectations. Don’t hesitate to share your preferences, and work collaboratively to make your wedding photography as magical as the day itself, as you plan, embrace the excitement of knowing that these photos will become cherished memories, treasured forever.

Share Your Story:

I would love to hear about your own wedding photography experiences! Feel free to share your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments below. Your insights might just help another couple on their journey to capturing their perfect day.

The Canada Lodge & Lake Wedding Possible Ideas

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I am extremely excited every time The Canada Lodge & Lake are contacting me about upcoming event. It is fast becoming one of my favourite venues for weddings. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Cardiff City Centre, it is an absolute hidden gem.

The Lodge itself is a perfect option for weddings of more than 50 guests. Despite being located so close to the Cardiff, it is surrounded by the woods and has a gorgeous five-acre lake, views onto The Rhodri’s By The Lake and on-site cabins and subterranean apartments available for you and your guests.

The experienced team of event coordinators is there to help from the day you book your wedding until the moment you walk down the aisle. They are fully licensed for civil weddings and partnerships, which means you do not have to spend extra money somewhere else.

The Oak Room

One of the many things I love about Canada Lodge & Lake is that they offer two stunning rooms for your wedding. The ceremony takes place in the very specious Oak Room overlooking the lake. The room itself is a stunning, romantic space for you to decorate and personalise as you’d like. The room has a rustic feel with crackling wood burning fires, which makes it perfectly suited for both intimate weddings and larger weddings with a capacity of up to 120 seated day guests or 180 evening guests.

Written in Lights Promises Wedding Styling

Reception

After the ceremony, enjoy a drink or two from the bar in The Oak Room with your guests. You can all have a wander out in the terrace or the lakeside patio. It’s the perfect time and space for me to capture some cute candid photos of you all living your absolute best lives.

You can also have a fun with entertainment chosen by you.

The Little Events Company

The Lakeside Room

The wedding breakfast usually takes place downstairs in The Lakeside room, with access to the grounds and covered patio also overlooking the lake. Bring your bubbly from upstairs and get ready to laugh and cry through the speeches as I sneak around the room capturing all those timeless reactions.

After dinner, the Lakeside Room is transforming into the dancefloor space for you to perform the first dance and show the crazy moves with all your friends and family. Do not forget to bring Convers as the night is going to be very long.

The Long Weekend Starlight Events South Wales

Not only does having these two rooms make your life easier on the day, but it also means I can jump between them to catch the most important moments of your celebration.

The Lakeside Patio

Ohhhhh … did I mention The Lakeside Patio! Do not let me start about this space!!!

It is amazing you can walk out with your drink and relax for a moment or play games but still watching your party mates inside. And do not worry if the rain is pouring as there is nicely lighted canopy installed all over the patio area, which makes it perfect for any type of weather all year around. This also allows you to have your evening buffet be served over here. Their new wood-fire pizza oven, burgers hotdogs, hog roast and dessert station are perfect addition to your perfect wedding. Let’s try them all!!!