A Fun, Friendly Guide to Equestrian Weddings

There is nothing quite like having your horse involved in your wedding day. Horses add a certain magic, a certain drama, and let’s be honest… a certain chaos.

If you are dreaming of bridal portraits with your horse, or even a grand entrance on horseback, this little guide is here to help. Think of it as the fun, friendly version of wedding planning with horses. There will be joy, stunning photos, and there will, most likely, be mud.

Choosing the Right Location

When picking a spot for equestrian wedding photos, choose a field your horse would swipe right on. Wide spaces, pretty scenery and nothing that sounds like a pig farm or looks like a bin bag (although neither should be a green flag for your wedding venue).

Yes's:

• Places where you can breathe, move and not worry about your dress getting too close to hooves, hedges or holes.

• Soft light in the morning or evening for those dreamy photos.

• Quiet surroundings where your horse won’t suddenly decide they are being chased by an invisible dragon.

No's:

Obvious, but avoid busy areas, getting too close to people, and small children. EVERYONE will want to come and say hello, so if your steed doesn't like being patted let your guests (and strangers) know in advance.

Preparing Your Horse for the Big Day

Because horses also need their glow-up moment.

Their version of wedding prep. Fresh groom, shiny coat, tidy mane. Maybe even a little extra pampering so they feel fabulous.

A few tips:

• Practice walking in your dress near your horse so they do not panic and assume you’ve turned into a moving tent. If you're going to be getting on, do the same but mounted.

• Bring treats and someone they trust.

Getting your horse used to something it's likely never had to deal with before is going to make a huge difference to how relaxed you all are during the shoot, and it's even better if you can visit the location multiple times before the big day (whether on your wedding day or as a separate event). The more experienced hands the better - you'll not just need help tacking up, but also jumping in to that dress.

Bridal Outfits That Work With Horses

Or: how to look gorgeous and avoid being stepped on.

Horses and long wedding trains are… not friends. Neither are horses and six-inch stilettos. The key is finding a dress that moves with you rather than fighting you. And be prepared to get horse poo everywhere.

What works well:

• Soft fabrics that flow - you need room to move!

• Boots (pretty ones). Yes, you will thank yourself for buying those white cowboy boots.

• Dresses you can lift slightly if needed, without falling over.

What to avoid:

• Trains long enough to double as a lunge line.

• Heels that disappear into the grass or sand immediately.

• A dress that you'll regret getting dirty.

Truth: Comfort is queen, and safer.

Working With Your Photographer

Because not all photographers know how to hold a camera and a horse whilst giving a a leg up to a rider in a wedding dress.

Choose someone who actually enjoys working with horses and does not flinch when a horse flicks their head. They should have plenty of experience with horses.

A few things to chat about together:

• Your dream photos

• Your horses quirks

• How much time to set aside so no one feels rushed

The best photos usually happen in the moments between the posed shots. A head nudge. A kiss. A horse trying to eat your bouquet.

Weather, Timing and The Unpredictable Horse Factor

Have a cute backup plan like a barn doorway, a woodland path or stable shots for if the heavens open.

If your horse is having a spicy day, that is okay. Sometimes the funniest, most personality filled shots happen when they are feeling themselves, and usually they relax after making an entrance.

And remember that calming feed you bought years ago and never finished. Now is the time for an extra scoop.

Safety First (but make it aesthetic)

Safety may not be the glamorous part of the day, but it is essential.

Make sure you bring a hat with you. Keep someone experienced holding your horse. Let guests know when it is safe to get close. And keep hazards far, far away from your dress.

Your horse is a large animal, lovely and sometimes a bit dramatic. Safety keeps everyone smiling.

Adding Personal Touches

There are endless ways to weave your horse into the story of your day. Floral plaits. Velvet ribbons. A horse-shaped wax seal on your invitations. Table names inspired by your favourite horses. A bridle embellished with something meaningful.

One day, you will look back and realise these tiny touches made the day feel uniquely yours.

Mistakes to Avoid

Truth: if you keep the horse happy, everything else tends to fall into place. Don't worry about trying to plan everything to an exact time, your horse runs the schedule.

Keep your horse fed and watered before the shoot (sometimes hair and makeup run over and they are left in the stable or box longer than anticipated), keep lots of treats hidden nearby, and remember that your noble steed has no idea what they are getting themselves in for on that particularly special day. Preparation is key, making sure all your equipment is beautifully cleaned and ready to go days before, lots of gentle practice beforehand, and keeping it short and sweet for the animals involved. And remember, this is going to be fun - go with the flow, and enjoy all the chaos. If you've got more questions about a bridal shoot or an equestrian wedding, please get in touch. Holly xx