An Old Windsor Summer Marquee Wedding With An Enchanting And Magical Walled Garden Ceremony At The Exclusive Little Dower House
At the end of June I headed back to Old Windsor, and the exceptionally beautiful (and exclusive) Little Dower House, for Tim and Julia’s wedding.
The Setting
To recap, I first discovered Susie and Hamish (who own Little Dower House) a few years back on Instagram, and immediately invited myself into their lives (whether they wanted me or not). 😉
Never before have I come across two people, and a setting, that completely pulled me in. I instantly knew I wanted to work with them and shoot weddings at their beautiful home. I don’t think I really need to explain more, just take a look at these photographs. Also do see some previous weddings I’ve been lucky enough to photograph here. If you are anything like me you’ll understand why I simply had to connect. It’s not just the beautiful Old Windsor setting though, it’s the type of couples who are attracted to such a setting that interest me. I totally get it, I would choose it too!
And so it was that Tim got in touch from the USA, and after some correspondence I was absolutely delighted to be booked to photograph the couple’s wedding day. This included the loveliest ceremony (led by Tim’s sister) beneath the old Catalpa tree in the Walled Garden. It was really special.
As I write, UK summer 2024 has been a somewhat hit and miss affair in terms of weather (that pesty jet stream), but Tim and Julia struck gold with the most perfect English summer day.
The Day
I began by popping across to the Shepherd Hut to say hi to Tim, before spending some time with Julia and her bridal party. With everything being in the same place, I was also able to visit the walled Garden to take some photos of the fabulous set up, including Jessica Eliza’s gorgeous floral arrangements. Then capture some shots of guests arriving, before popping back to photograph Julia’s final touches.
The ceremony was perfection. The Old Windsor setting dreamy. The branches of the Catalpa framing each individual shot with sunlight streaming through. So satisfying to capture.
Drinks followed, in the dappled shade of the gardens, and then I had such a fantastic time capturing bride and groom portraits along side videographer Mat whom I had personally recommended.
A Little Tip For Booking Your Photographer & Videographer
It’s worth mentioning that it’s always a good idea to ask your photographer for a recommendation as they will be working really closely with your videographer on the day. This involves dovetailing, and working together mutually wanting the best results for your couple. Having a team with the same approach is vital.
The Flow Of The Day
Following group photos and more drinks, everyone made their way across the meadow to the marquee. Then as Tim and Julia, being American, entered and went straight into their first dance before speeches and then the wedding breakfast.
Later guests spilled out into the meadow for games and chill out time, and with pretty early evening light, I borrowed the happy couple for a few more portraits. This mini session is always totally relaxed. The formalities are over and a little wine has been drunk, and the results are always appreciated by the couple.
Please do take a look through this magical and super relaxed wedding day, and if you are lucky enough to be getting married in this very special location in Old Windsor, do get in touch. I would LOVE to hear from you.
Tim and Julia, I hope you had an utterly fabulous honeymoon. Thank you so much for choosing me to play a small part in your day. I hope your photographs bring you a lifetime of happy memories. J x
Suppliers
Venue – Little Dower House
Flowers – Jessica Eliza Wedding Flowers
Videographer – Unique Wedding Productions
Hair & MUA – Lyndsey Jewell
Catering – Souper Food
Pianist – Lewis Bolland
Marquee – Boutique Marquees
DJ & Music – Boogie Down Productions
