So here lies a selection of photos from the very first wedding that I photographed. I had several other weddings lined up prior to this wedding, but Covid hit and therefore these brilliant and bubbly guys became the first wedding. So relaxed and easy-going, these guys made the day a breeze. They did happen to be the masters of being at the opposite end of the venue to where I was for the most part.

This stunning marquee wedding took place on a farm that also hosts weddings around a beautiful little lake. The lake provided a great backdrop for the ceremony, group photos and a few couples moments. What seems to be becoming a common feature at weddings, is that the couple completes the official wedding ceremony at a registry office in the days leading up to the “wedding day” and then having a celebration and declaration in front of friends and family in a traditional or non-traditional style.

This lovely wedding was not without its challenges. During the ceremony, we had some rumbles of thunder, but thankfully no rain, that is until soon after everyone had moved into the marquee. The heavy downpour led to changes to the schedule with group photos taking place after the food was served since it kept raining throughout the wedding breakfast. The speeches were a combination of hilarious and also really quite emotional, thankfully the rain had eased up so I could roam around for different angles just outside with the sides of the marquee open. Taking some family traditions on board, things got loud with some singing and party-blower horns. Guests were thoroughly entertained with the craziness of singing and also the garden games available. In the neighbouring field, a selection of old-school games was set out such as swing-ball and croquet. Many enjoyed the activities, having a laugh kids and adults alike. These activities make for great photos also as you see your guests having fun and maybe even embarrassing themselves!

We only took about 10 minutes on a little stroll around the grounds to capture a few couples moments which was plenty enough for the couple so they could get some shots but get back to the party quickly as there were plenty of guests to converse with. Our sessions led to quick moments that the couple felt comfortable with in front of the camera, creating various motions and poses. We didn’t linger as the party was in full swing once all the key elements of the wedding had taken place of the wedding breakfast, speeches and photographs. The guys were open to all suggestions and the best people had a good laugh when we captured a few group photographs when I suggested that the entire group walks towards me. I love capturing a walk towards-me group shot or even just a couples shot, you never know the reaction, someone often bursts out laughing and everything becomes quite natural and relaxed. During the evening different groups of families and friends wanted shots together, creating ridiculous moments as more people join in the fun, lying on the floor to get into the shot, or I even jump behind others to capture a group shot on a phone which always creates a good giggle when anyone realises I am hiding behind, piggybacking on any shots. Piggybacking on shots is entertaining and often loved by everyone and the wedding couple gets a different shot that they may not see for a while, stuck on a random phone, and the couple see everyone enjoying the party when they are not around and can see the antics others get up to.

The marquee was set and designed by Ritual Event Design, featuring floral arrangements on the tables and beautiful hanging foliage for the must-have dance floor glitter ball. After negotiating the rain and hay scattered on the ground to avoid bogs appearing, certainly not ideal for any high heels at the event, the food served was the fantastic Paella by CrocusPaella.

Real Wedding : J & B