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How Not to Get Married: A no-nonsense guide to weddings... from a photographer who has seen it ALL
“…beautiful, funny, sometimes heart-breaking…”“…I’m a vicar and I laughed all the way through…”“…anything by George Mahood is a must read…”“…he’s like a young Bill Bryson…”“…should be required reading…”
Something old. Something new. Something a wedding photographer would never tell you… until today.
After a decade photographing over 250 weddings, author George Mahood is ready to lift the lid on the industry and expose the truths about what he has learned.
Sometimes controversial, often insightful, but always amusing, George Mahood offers some practical advice to those planning their own wedding, sharing stories of the weddings he photographed (as well as his own marriage), while shedding some light on the role of the wedding photographer and what it is like to document the glorious ups and often disastrous downs of the most important day in these couples' lives.
“…whether you're getting married, have no intention of getting married or are already married (insert appropriate option here), you'll have a great read…”
PICK UP YOUR COPY TODAY AND DISCOVER WHAT GOES ON BEYOND THE VEIL!
Something old. Something new. Something a wedding photographer would never tell you… until today.
After a decade photographing over 250 weddings, author George Mahood is ready to lift the lid on the industry and expose the truths about what he has learned.
Sometimes controversial, often insightful, but always amusing, George Mahood offers some practical advice to those planning their own wedding, sharing stories of the weddings he photographed (as well as his own marriage), while shedding some light on the role of the wedding photographer and what it is like to document the glorious ups and often disastrous downs of the most important day in these couples' lives.
“…whether you're getting married, have no intention of getting married or are already married (insert appropriate option here), you'll have a great read…”
PICK UP YOUR COPY TODAY AND DISCOVER WHAT GOES ON BEYOND THE VEIL!
- GenresNonfictionMemoirHumor
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 18, 2019
323 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
George Mahood
97 books482 followersGeorge Mahood is an award-winning writer. Specifically, he was placed third in the Little Brington Village Fete's limerick competition (Under 10s category) in 1988. It was the same year that Mrs Marriott's legendary fruit loaf was beaten in the WI cake contest for the first time in six years.
George studied Communication Studies and English Literature at Leeds University. After spending a year travelling in the USA (with clothes and money), he worked for several years in a variety of jobs including charity fund-raising and garlic bread making. He currently works as a photographer, specialising in weddings. George has been the lead singer and guitarist of a rubbish band and the chairman and midfielder of an awful Sunday-league football team.
George has plenty more madcap ideas that will form the basis of future books. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook to keep in touch, see more photos from FREE COUNTRY, and to hear about future projects.
www.facebook.com/georgemahood
www.twitter.com/georgemahood
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
November 9, 2020
Cute and funny, but some jokes were over used. I was hoping for more stories about the people he met and less about wedding planning.
May 21, 2019
I've never been into weddings-even my own-but every George Mahood book I've read is interesting and funny.
As an experienced wedding photographer, he shared experiences, tips, and even fascinating info on the history of wedding traditions. If I were a bride or groom prepping for a wedding this book would be a hilarious and insightful book to read before planning.
While I highlighted many of George's more philosophical points about weddings which I agree, i.e., beyond the one day, the important focus should be on the lifetime to follow, I thought I'd share what a dedicated wedding photographer he was with this small excerpt from his book:
"On one occasion, a drunken female guest stumbled forwards into me. I caught a strong whiff of burning and started patting my t-shirt, fearing I was on fire. I then felt a searing pain in my right cheek and realised the smell of burning was my own flesh as this drunken guest had branded me in the face with her sparkler."
Yikes!
I'm glad he hung up his photography gear and is now writing. He never fails to make me laugh and think.
Because he makes me giggle, I'm now reading another of his adventures.
As an experienced wedding photographer, he shared experiences, tips, and even fascinating info on the history of wedding traditions. If I were a bride or groom prepping for a wedding this book would be a hilarious and insightful book to read before planning.
While I highlighted many of George's more philosophical points about weddings which I agree, i.e., beyond the one day, the important focus should be on the lifetime to follow, I thought I'd share what a dedicated wedding photographer he was with this small excerpt from his book:
"On one occasion, a drunken female guest stumbled forwards into me. I caught a strong whiff of burning and started patting my t-shirt, fearing I was on fire. I then felt a searing pain in my right cheek and realised the smell of burning was my own flesh as this drunken guest had branded me in the face with her sparkler."
Yikes!
I'm glad he hung up his photography gear and is now writing. He never fails to make me laugh and think.
Because he makes me giggle, I'm now reading another of his adventures.
May 2, 2019
Even though I got married 20 years ago this week, I read this book because I've read George's other books, and I enjoy his quirky sense of humour (other sense's of humour are available). This book didn't fail; it reminded me so much of my own wedding; I related to so many of his anecdotes, and it brought back lots of memories.
If you're planning on getting married I highly recommend this book - after shooting over 250 weddings George has a pretty good idea as to what's important and what's not in a wedding (hint: aside from having 2 people that love each other, very little is important). And for everybody else, its a short, fun read full of interesting and humorous anecdotes.
Like his other books, you'll have a great read.
If you're planning on getting married I highly recommend this book - after shooting over 250 weddings George has a pretty good idea as to what's important and what's not in a wedding (hint: aside from having 2 people that love each other, very little is important). And for everybody else, its a short, fun read full of interesting and humorous anecdotes.
Like his other books, you'll have a great read.
May 4, 2019
Five out of five stars it is clear I found this book entertaining. I am a fan of all the George Mahood penned books so far. He has a unique way of finding topics that will keep the reader interested. I find his books hard to put down once I start so I usually start them when I know I will have a couple of days free to read. Since we are heading into Summer, I would recommend this as an excellent poolside or beach read.
With, How Not to Get Married: Confessions of a Wedding Photographer, Manhood has written a nearly perfect book for a newly engaged couple just getting ready to start planning their big day. A how-to manual for any family member that has been recruited to photograph a wedding for the first time, and even a refresher for any long-time wedding photographer that is just looking for some new ideas. He gives excellent tips while retelling humorous stories.
With, How Not to Get Married: Confessions of a Wedding Photographer, Manhood has written a nearly perfect book for a newly engaged couple just getting ready to start planning their big day. A how-to manual for any family member that has been recruited to photograph a wedding for the first time, and even a refresher for any long-time wedding photographer that is just looking for some new ideas. He gives excellent tips while retelling humorous stories.
May 31, 2019
Another delightful book.
This is an entertaining book about weddings. The author takes us through a day of photographing all the events surrounding and including the ceremony. He also includes little bits of background in the various traditions, which I appreciated; as well as reasonable suggestions mostly taking the form of "don't waste your money on useless stuff." Mr. Mahood is a man of Strong Opinions, so much so that I am still struggling with the compulsion to buy a crate of sugared almonds and ship it off to him. "There! Now may I have fireworks?"
This is an entertaining book about weddings. The author takes us through a day of photographing all the events surrounding and including the ceremony. He also includes little bits of background in the various traditions, which I appreciated; as well as reasonable suggestions mostly taking the form of "don't waste your money on useless stuff." Mr. Mahood is a man of Strong Opinions, so much so that I am still struggling with the compulsion to buy a crate of sugared almonds and ship it off to him. "There! Now may I have fireworks?"
January 5, 2025
Mike and I were gifted this from my Mum for Christmas, as a bit of a jokey gift in reference to our Engagement and upcoming nuptials. We ended up listening to it as an audiobook in the car, and it was really funny and factually interesting too!
There’s loads of really good points that the author makes, we agreed with so much of what he was saying, and we’re probably going to do exactly what we were planning to do anyway for our wedding… but this book kinda says that at the end- You do you and have fun! 👰 🤵
There’s loads of really good points that the author makes, we agreed with so much of what he was saying, and we’re probably going to do exactly what we were planning to do anyway for our wedding… but this book kinda says that at the end- You do you and have fun! 👰 🤵
January 23, 2020
Through the lens of Jen & Matt’s wedding, his last ever job as a wedding photographer, he explores his own history as a wedding photographer, the changes (many technology) in the last decade and the history behind the wedding traditions. It’s interesting to view a wedding through the photographer’s eyes, which isn’t a perspective you often see.
May 22, 2019
As usual, Mr. Mahood doesn't disappoint. This book was funny, well researched and genuinely told.
There was a paragraph in the latter part of the book where the author mentions that he is a crap writer. I don't agree with that statement even a tiny bit. I think George is a decent writer but a marvelous storyteller. I am an avid reader and I had to stop reading a bestselling non-fiction book to pick up this one.
If George is a crap writer, then I am an idiotic reader.
PS: I listened to Bright Eyes' I'm Wide Awake It's Morning (since George mentioned that it was his favourite music album of all time) and absolutely loved it. The First Day of My Life is an incredible song.
There was a paragraph in the latter part of the book where the author mentions that he is a crap writer. I don't agree with that statement even a tiny bit. I think George is a decent writer but a marvelous storyteller. I am an avid reader and I had to stop reading a bestselling non-fiction book to pick up this one.
If George is a crap writer, then I am an idiotic reader.
PS: I listened to Bright Eyes' I'm Wide Awake It's Morning (since George mentioned that it was his favourite music album of all time) and absolutely loved it. The First Day of My Life is an incredible song.
May 27, 2019
I hope George finds something good to write about
Have read every book, find George very funny. Unfortunately a blow by blow account of someone else's wedding is a bit tedious. Come on George, man up and let's have another travel challenge 👍👍
Have read every book, find George very funny. Unfortunately a blow by blow account of someone else's wedding is a bit tedious. Come on George, man up and let's have another travel challenge 👍👍
January 28, 2020
There is a lot of historical facts about weddings, the parts of the ceremony and reception that we see and never question. George M. gives us lots of updates and advice of what not to do and what to do in the case of wedding planning, or just looking at weddings as an anthropologist might do. The facts and the cases sighted were really fun. And the wacky mishaps, and honest look at the life of a wedding photographer who is retiring after 1 last wedding and reception, is quite a journey. Though I liked George Mahood's other books more, this is still a very entertaining read- though I personally thought the historical background was a bit much. I really liked the personal touches and comments the most and the tales of the faux pas he and others went through were silly and fun.
April 27, 2019
A 'must read' for every couple thinking of getting married
Read this book this week. Thought it would be a funny anecdotal read especially as we've been in the wedding transport industry for 21 years now. But it was also a very informative,, interesting book on the history, traditions, pitfalls and pluses of marriage that I think should be a 'must read' for every couple thinking of getting married.
Read this book this week. Thought it would be a funny anecdotal read especially as we've been in the wedding transport industry for 21 years now. But it was also a very informative,, interesting book on the history, traditions, pitfalls and pluses of marriage that I think should be a 'must read' for every couple thinking of getting married.
April 26, 2019
An entertaining romp
I love George Mahood's books. Always entertaining, I learn something new, sometimes lots of somethings, with each one. His sense of humor enlivens every adventure, and I am always left wishing for the next one right away.
I love George Mahood's books. Always entertaining, I learn something new, sometimes lots of somethings, with each one. His sense of humor enlivens every adventure, and I am always left wishing for the next one right away.
April 28, 2019
Excellent funny reaf
George uses his great sense of humor to share his insight into the world of brides, grooms and wedding traditions. Certainly not your typical wedding planning guide but I recommend it to anyone planning their wedding or working in the wedding industry.
George uses his great sense of humor to share his insight into the world of brides, grooms and wedding traditions. Certainly not your typical wedding planning guide but I recommend it to anyone planning their wedding or working in the wedding industry.
April 29, 2019
Well written
This book is funny and informative about weddings and the history of getting married. Enjoyed the comments about different aspects of a wedding I have never given much thought to.
This book is funny and informative about weddings and the history of getting married. Enjoyed the comments about different aspects of a wedding I have never given much thought to.
May 19, 2019
"A Real History Of A Humorous Wedding Photographer"
I've read previous stories written by George Mahood which I really enjoyed. This one is about him as a wedding photographer and his experiences observed, with wisdom and humor. His stories are always entertaining!
I've read previous stories written by George Mahood which I really enjoyed. This one is about him as a wedding photographer and his experiences observed, with wisdom and humor. His stories are always entertaining!
June 3, 2019
Entertaining
Once again, George Mahood's has entertained his readers wonderfully. The peak into the whole wedding experience was enlightening. His advice of what is really important, too true.
Once again, George Mahood's has entertained his readers wonderfully. The peak into the whole wedding experience was enlightening. His advice of what is really important, too true.
May 19, 2019
Always a good time.
Love George Manhood. Gives you the feeling you are right there with him. Looking forward to when he starts writing with his wife.
Love George Manhood. Gives you the feeling you are right there with him. Looking forward to when he starts writing with his wife.
May 26, 2019
I always enjoy books by George Mahood and this was no different. Entertaining, humorous and well written.
October 5, 2022
This was a fun read. I feel like it would have been good to read before getting married… but it was still good. Intelligent, funny, and advice filled.
August 21, 2024
As a wedding photographer editing during the peak of wedding season- this was a fun listen.. however I did disagree with a LOT of the things the author brings up (even if meant in jest).
May 11, 2019
At the end of last year I proposed to my partner (SPOILER - he said YES!) and we're now planning our wedding. Although we're pretty chilled about it all, I'm still interested in advice and tips to make sure all goes smoothly.
This amusing autobiographical account by former wedding photographer George Mahmood, deconstructs the big day in order, explains the history behind the various traditions, and gives anecdotes from his own and other real-life weddings.
As we're fairly non-traditional, this book didn't really change my mind about anything we're planning, but rather gave me a giggle and reaffirmed my belief that we don't need to worry about colour schemes, stationery, seating plans, a white dress, elaborate flowers, favours, and so on.
This is definitely worth a read if you're planning a wedding, but is interesting from a sociological standpoint even if you're not.
This amusing autobiographical account by former wedding photographer George Mahmood, deconstructs the big day in order, explains the history behind the various traditions, and gives anecdotes from his own and other real-life weddings.
As we're fairly non-traditional, this book didn't really change my mind about anything we're planning, but rather gave me a giggle and reaffirmed my belief that we don't need to worry about colour schemes, stationery, seating plans, a white dress, elaborate flowers, favours, and so on.
This is definitely worth a read if you're planning a wedding, but is interesting from a sociological standpoint even if you're not.
April 28, 2019
Meh
I’ve read lots of George’s other books and really enjoyed them, and I liked the premise of this one, but was quite let down by the finished product. It turned out to be VERY light on actual anecdotes or stories of things gone wrong, and very heavily padded out with long paragraphs on the ancient history of various wedding traditions. In fact I don’t know why the book is called how not to get married as he actually hardly reaccounts anything that’s gone wrong! Just how he got started with wedding photography, the timings etc of the day, what cameras and lenses to use, tons of wedding history and traditions, and the a tiny amount of real life anecdotes. Still enjoy George as an author and recommend some of this other stuff but this ones not for me.
I’ve read lots of George’s other books and really enjoyed them, and I liked the premise of this one, but was quite let down by the finished product. It turned out to be VERY light on actual anecdotes or stories of things gone wrong, and very heavily padded out with long paragraphs on the ancient history of various wedding traditions. In fact I don’t know why the book is called how not to get married as he actually hardly reaccounts anything that’s gone wrong! Just how he got started with wedding photography, the timings etc of the day, what cameras and lenses to use, tons of wedding history and traditions, and the a tiny amount of real life anecdotes. Still enjoy George as an author and recommend some of this other stuff but this ones not for me.
June 16, 2019
I have enjoyed George Mahood's previous books and this one was no exception. It's entertaining and there were times it made me laugh out loud. Do not read this when travelling! Although it's many a long year since I got married I have been to a fair few weddings. Over the years I find it fascinating to see how the wedding industry has grown.It can all be a bit mad! In this memoir he intertwines anecdotes about his own personal life together with all sorts of fun facts and odd wedding traditions as well as, obviously, stories of his own career as a Wedding Photographer. If you want a lighthearted, amusing book I can recommend this one.
July 7, 2019
Great read!
Very informative read! George shares with the reader the origins behind many of the practices we celebrate in weddings. He also offers practical tips for couples and pitfalls to avoid. Pastors would do well to suggest that all couples read this as a companion to their premarital curriculum. Back of the story is George's farewell from a ten year Career in wedding photography and his movement toward full-time authorship. Many layers all happening at the same time without being confusing. Highly recommend!
Very informative read! George shares with the reader the origins behind many of the practices we celebrate in weddings. He also offers practical tips for couples and pitfalls to avoid. Pastors would do well to suggest that all couples read this as a companion to their premarital curriculum. Back of the story is George's farewell from a ten year Career in wedding photography and his movement toward full-time authorship. Many layers all happening at the same time without being confusing. Highly recommend!
May 9, 2019
Funny and insightful
Mahood has a knack for finding topics that I have no interest in reading about and turning them in to books I struggle to put down.
Confessions is no exception. A look back at his time as a wedding photographer, George walks us through the big day of Jen and Matt, and fills each page with anecdotes and wedding trivia.
Another great book about something I'm not fussed about. Well recommended.
Mahood has a knack for finding topics that I have no interest in reading about and turning them in to books I struggle to put down.
Confessions is no exception. A look back at his time as a wedding photographer, George walks us through the big day of Jen and Matt, and fills each page with anecdotes and wedding trivia.
Another great book about something I'm not fussed about. Well recommended.
June 28, 2019
I was rather excited about George's new release as I absolutely love his style of writing and his sense of humour. This book did not disappoint and once again I found myself laughing out loud in numerous places. In secret, I am missing his adventures and long for him to go travelling again, but I appreciate that this may be difficult with a young family. George - cracking book! Well done you.
August 30, 2019
easy read, i would recommend it to anyone who is planning to get married. Good stories that have been combined together to make it flow through an entire wedding, from the first meeting to reviewing the wedding album. Good insight into the so called traditions for weddings, where they came from and how they have evolved into the nonsense people are forced to go through today.
July 10, 2019
Funny relating of years the author was a wedding photographer. Very tongue in cheek humor. More of a What Not to Do when getting married. Good historical background on many of the traditions. I learned some interesting things.
September 30, 2019
George does it again, a very good book. Always liked his writing style and this one is yet another funny book he has written..
Only bad part is that, I have finished all his books.. Not sure, how long would I need to wait for the next one.. George?
Only bad part is that, I have finished all his books.. Not sure, how long would I need to wait for the next one.. George?
October 29, 2019
I always enjoy George Mahood's books. I enjoy his story telling and his humor (however, I don't too much enjoy some of his language). I'm going to tell two of my friends about this one, they are both wedding photographers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews