Your Go-To Guide for Planning a Southern California Wedding

 

From choosing your date to finding your dream photographer, here’s everything you need to plan your 2025 or 2026 wedding in SoCal without the overwhelming stress.

 

Planning your wedding should be exciting, not stressful. At Sed McCray Studio, we’re here to help you navigate your wedding season with style, confidence, and a touch of fun. Whether you just got engaged or you’re locking in final details, this guide has your back.

 

1. Set the Date

Saturdays are still the most popular choice, but Fridays and Sundays are becoming favorites for couples who want more flexibility, unique timing, or potential cost savings. In Southern California, outdoor venues are a great option year-round. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather, while off-peak months like January or November bring better availability and rates.

Pro Tip: Book early. Iconic SoCal venues like beach spots and desert estates fill up fast.

 

2. Choose Your Dream Team

The right vendors will shape your entire experience. Start with the essentials: venue, planner, and photographer. When it comes to photography, find someone whose style and approach feel like a match. Take time to review portfolios, read client feedback, and schedule a quick call to make sure the connection is there.

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3. Define Your Style

What kind of celebration feels most like you? A romantic vineyard wedding in Temecula? A rooftop downtown? A laid-back, boho vibe in Joshua Tree? Start a mood board with color palettes, textures, and inspiration. Use that visual foundation to guide your decisions for outfits, florals, stationery, and décor.

 

4. Lock In the Timeline

A well-planned timeline keeps things smooth and stress-free. Here’s a typical photography flow:

• Getting Ready: 1.5 to 2 hours

• First Look and Couple’s Portraits: 30 minutes

• Wedding Party Photos: 30 minutes

• Family Formals: 30 minutes

• Ceremony: 30 to 60 minutes

• Golden Hour Portraits: 20 to 30 minutes

• Reception Coverage: Speeches, first dance, cake, and candid fun

We’ll help you build a timeline that fits your day and your light.

 

5. 2025 Wedding Trends We’re Loving

Here are a few trends we’re seeing couples lean into for 2025:

• Rich, bold color palettes like emerald, rust, and plum

• Sustainable choices with local florals and reusable décor

• Interactive guest experiences like live painters or build-your-own cocktail stations

• Meaningful, intentional details like vow books or scent-inspired design

 

6. Let’s Talk Photography

Your wedding photos should tell your story, not just show what the day looked like. At Sed McCray Studio, we focus on real moments, timeless portraits, and the overall vibe of your day. Whether you’re getting married by the ocean, in the desert, or downtown, we’re here to capture it as it truly unfolds.

See our recent work

Pro Tip: A short shot list is helpful, but leave room for your photographer to document the candid magic too.

 

7. Budget Smarter

Start with what matters most to you. Put your budget toward the elements that will shape your experience and your memories. Need help figuring out photography options? We’re happy to walk you through coverage and pricing.

Let’s talk

 

8. Don’t Forget to Soak It All In

The day will go by fast. Take time to slow down, connect, and just be present. This is your moment. We’ll be there to capture it all, from the big scenes to the quiet glances you didn’t even realize were happening.

 

Let’s Make Sure the Photos Are as Good as the Memories

 

Planning your 2025 or 2026 Southern California wedding? We’d love to be part of it. Let’s make sure your photos are as good as the memories.

 

Contact us and explore our wedding collections below!