When Emily & James got in touch to ask if I could photograph their engagement party, I was so excited. Not just because they’re a brilliant couple (they are), but because I love when people choose to celebrate all the fun and meaningful moments that come before the wedding day, too.
Emily is actually a photographer friend of mine, and I had the pleasure of photographing her birthday party a couple of years ago—so I already knew this was going to be a fun event. She has such an incredible energy, and getting to document another milestone for her and James felt really special. Knowing how much effort they put into making their celebrations full of laughter and good vibes, I couldn’t wait to capture it all.
Their photography brief was simple but perfect: they wanted a few relaxed couples portraits—just the two of them to mark the moment—but beyond that, it was all about capturing the atmosphere. They wanted natural, documentary-style coverage of the evening as it unfolded: the hugs, the dancing, the laughter, the chaos of the party games. Nothing too posed or staged—just real moments with their favourite people.
They hired a private space at a bar in London Bridge, filled it with their friends, and threw an evening that was full of laughter, dancing, party games and cocktails. It had such a joyful, relaxed energy. You could feel how loved these two are, and how ready everyone was to celebrate this next chapter of their story.
As a photographer, it’s such a joy to capture these kinds of moments. While wedding days are full of emotion and significance, the lead-up is filled with so many beautiful memories too—moments that are often more laid-back, silly, and just as meaningful. Engagement parties, hen dos, dress shopping trips, or even just that casual Sunday morning spent planning—these are all part of your story.
Photography isn’t just about the big, posed portraits or the once-in-a-lifetime ceremony shot (though those are important too!). It’s also about the real, unscripted moments. The hugs that last a little longer, the cheers from your mates, the spontaneous dance floor chaos. Emily & James’s party had all of that, and it was an absolute blast to be part of it.
So if you’re planning an engagement celebration, or any kind of pre-wedding event, and wondering whether it’s worth having a photographer there—my answer is a resounding yes. These are the moments you’ll want to look back on, too.
Want me to capture your engagement party or celebration?
I’d love to be there to document the fun! Just get in touch here and let’s chat about your plans.
Here’s to more love, more laughter, and more photos that tell the whole story. 💃🍾📸
Sarah Wills Weddings 