They Say Never Work with Kids or Animals... But When Archie the Pony's This Charming, You Don't Really Have a Choice

This week's styled shoot at Clayesmore School was everything I didn’t know I needed including a scene-stealing pony called Archie. It brought The Wedding Index Dorset together with an amazing group of Dorset wedding suppliers and it’s one I’ll remember. The photos are going to be beautiful, but what really stood out was the mix of people, the energy on the day, and the lessons I took away.

What Went Well

We had such a good mix of suppliers some brand new to Dorset, some brand new to shoots. That variety gave the day a really fresh feel. Kelly, our photographer, was brilliant. She stepped into something different, backed the vision, and caught it all perfectly. Chloe was steady and calm from the Clayesmore side, and behind the scenes my own personal team of cheerleaders. James and Amy, our models, were amazing, and the kids including suppliers’ little ones and my own Darcy, who only smiled once she’d had her lunch brought so much personality. And of course, Archie P the pony stole the show.

What Could Have Been Better

Styled shoots never run without a hiccup. Timings, weather, hungry kids are all part of it, and anyone involved in creative projects knows that unexpected challenges can arise. With so many new faces and elements at play, it did feel a bit chaotic at times, but that’s sometimes just how foundations are laid for something magical. The moments of chaos often lead to the best inspiration, and it was invigorating to witness how we adapted as the day unfolded.

My Reflections

A few of the suppliers involved were neurodivergent, me included, which added a layer of understanding to the day. We set out with a shared goal to keep the day calm and supportive, and the atmosphere created was remarkable. It made a huge difference, both in productivity and morale. For me, this shoot represents a vision of what I want The Wedding Index Dorset to embody: people coming together, trying things in new ways, and creating a space where collaboration feels not only possible but also enjoyable. Collaboration thrives in an environment of trust and creativity, and I truly felt that within our team.

We made room for suppliers you don’t usually see at styled shoots, such as lawn games alongside florals, and a tiny horse who brought his own champagne and flowers! Such touches remind us that real weddings aren’t merely about the Instagram-perfect vendors; they’re about the heartfelt details and the little touches that make your day uniquely yours. Each element contributes to the larger narrative of your celebration, and it’s these details that your guests will remember for years to come.

And for couples, styled shoots like this are here to give you ideas and show what’s truly possible at venues like Clayesmore School. From florals and makeup to the small details (and even a pony), it’s all about sparking inspiration for your own day. Every couple deserves a chance to envision their dream wedding, and we hope to play a small part in that through creative displays and innovative setups that break the mold.

I’ve already scribbled down about ten blog ideas off the back of this one day. The inspiration was flowing, and the possibilities seem endless. But for now, I just wanted to share a little snapshot of this incredible experience: the fun bits, the messy bits, and why it mattered. It’s always crucial to reflect on these moments and acknowledge the lessons learned along the way.

Credits to all suppliers will be shared on Instagram, so keep an eye out for Archie’s future blog debut!

If you’re a Dorset wedding supplier who’d love to be part of shoots like this, come and say hi over on Instagram. And if you’re planning your wedding in Dorset, follow along for more local inspiration and supplier recommendations. It’s such an exciting journey, and we can't wait to help you bring your vision to life!