A Beautiful Classic Summer Wedding With Village Church Wedding Ceremony And Simply Stunning Garden Marquee Reception
It’s a year since I went across to meet Rosie and her mum, Alex, to hear all about Rosie and Ross’ weddings plans and chat about my style and approach to wedding photography. With Rosie a super busy TV presenter, and Ross half of professional adventurers ‘The Turner Twins’, Alex was helping to plan and organise the big day. So I sat with them in their kitchen, meeting the family dogs, chatting all things weddings, drinking tea, and after a few minutes and a couple of few sips, I wanted in. Like REALLY wanted in. 🙂
Fast forward to a sunny Saturday in July, and I’m at the local village pub ready to capture a few shots at the Groom’s lunch. I hadn’t met Ross beforehand, but with a 50/50 chance of identifying the right identical twin, let’s just say the day got off to a good start! 🙂
Having captured some lovely images of the brothers, and some candid shots of the party, I moved across the road to the church to check out the logistics for the ceremony. Whilst there I also took some shots of the gorgeous white roses that adorned the Lychgate, entrance way, and throughout the church.
Bridal Prep
After my church visit, I headed down the lane to photograph Rosie’s bridal prep, where everything was feeling pretty relaxed. In attendance with her mum, sister, and bridesmaids, were her besties, all enjoying the excitement and anticipation of the day.
Of course it’s always a really special moment when the father of the bride gets to see his daughter in her wedding dress, and this was no exception. Rosie was, of course, looking utterly radiant and so beautiful as she made her way to the waiting car, accompanied by her very proud dad!
It’s lovely to be a small part of these private moments, in the knowledge that everyone, especially the groom, is waiting at the church for the arrival of the bride with huge anticipation. Capturing this part of the day that other’s won’t see until the photographs are shared. It’s a huge privilege.
The Ceremony
Apart from the obvious emotions of the marriage ceremony, I was particularly struck by the fantastic music curated by the bride’s talented brother. I’m always interested to hear the music that has been selected for a wedding ceremony. Standing at the front of the church I really got to feel the vibration of the brass instruments and organ, right to the bones!
The bride’s arrival, heralded by a ‘Fanfare For Rosie’, especially composed by her brother, was followed by a processional to the adagio from Telemann’s ‘Trumpet Concerto’.
As well as several classic hymns, readings included “Yes, I’ll Marry You My Dear” (Pam Ayers) and a really special poem written for Rosie by Ross, “You Are My Kite Line”, which made hearts flutter and maybe a few tears fall.
After the marriage vows and blessing, Rosie’s friend performed two songs at the piano (including Rascal Flatts, “Bless The Broken Road”, a favourite of mine too).
Finally came the recessional, followed by a long enthusiastic confetti line, always so much fun to photograph. Rosie and Ross then jumped into a classic Morgan sports car, and headed off to cheers, waves, and confetti cannons!
The Reception
I may not have had a Morgan sports car, but my EV, peddle pressure, and the short distance meant I was back at the house and capturing bride and groom portraits before the guests started to arrive. This was one of my favourite parts of the day, and Rosie and Ross were so relaxed that I was able to capture everything I had envisaged, and I’m so happy with their portraits.
We were then able to take their group shots nice and quickly, including a really special few with Rosie’s granny. This all meant that there was plenty of time for the couple to celebrate and chat with their guests. A wedding day can literally fly by, so getting the timings right and allowing enough time to actually enjoy your own hospitality and the company of your favourite people in the world, is so important.
I had the best time shooting this wedding, and I guess because I was so focused on capturing each moment on the day, it wasn’t until I sat down to edit the images that I was able to really reflect on all the emotions of the day. Like so many wedding photographers, I immerse myself and really slide into the day, honing in on getting those shots that epitomise moments I know the couple and their families will look back on for the rest of their lives.
Rosie’s mum and sister helping her into her dress. Her dad seeing her for the first time in her wedding dress and veil (and the tears in his eyes). Ross and Hugo having a few final supportive words together at the alter before Rosie’s arrival. Rosie’s dad passing her hand to Ross whilst exchanging a knowing glance. Rosie’s granny being there, hanky in hand, to see Rosie marry Ross (oh how proud she must have felt). The sheer joy and laughter of the confetti moments and waving the couple off as they left the church. The speeches – so many tears of laugher and emotion. I guess ‘laughter and emotion’ are the two words that sum up the day. It really was a sensational wedding.
“You are out of this world!!!! Omg!!!! Rossi and I are both in tears again! These photos are more special than I could ever ever ever have hoped for!!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!! Just WOW!!! Thank you thank you!!!! You’ve captured so many special moments!” Rosie
Suppliers
MUA – Dominic Hogg
Hairdresser – Cindy Arpesella
Dress – Suzanne Neville at Ellie Sanderson
Shoes – Emmy London
Flowers – Andrew Fleming
Marquee – Peacock & Bow
Catering – Carte Blanche Catering
Band – The Fabulous Hurricanes
