The couple had asked me to become their wedding photographer as they wanted to feel relaxed on the day. The documentary style is just right for allowing the day to progress without direction from the photographer.

Here is a small selection from the day:

The bridal preparations took place in one of the suites at Maison Talbooth. Here the mother of the bride and mother of the groom share their excitement.

Beautiful hair and make up by Gail Gardner

The girls were actually getting changed in a different room, so with Eric already at the hotel it was a quick dash upstairs with lookouts posted at every turn!

It was a glorious day for the short walk down to the pool house where champagne was served and where the speeches took place.

Although most of the day was covered in reportage style, I always suggest that we spend some time taking informal portraits of the bride and groom. Rather than it feeling like a disruption to the day, most couples enjoy having a little time away from the throng.

After some delicious food served out on the lawn, it was time for the dancing to begin. I love this shot of Cherie and her dad.

And of course the bride and groom’s first dance.

Links:

Maison Talbooth

Gail Gardner

It was a glorious spring day, just right for a wedding.

It was the car’s first wedding of the season and it had been a little reluctant to come out of the garage, but fortunately it decided to play ball and Rachel was able to arrive in her dream car.

The dress

Bridal preparations at home

I think the word is ‘resplendent!’

Bridal portrait before the ceremony

The lighting conditions inside the barn are pretty tricky but using available light rather than flash has kept the images very natural and was much less intrusive

The muted autumnal colours made a lovely backdrop

After the ceremony Lisa and Alasdair went for a short drive

And came back ready for the party!

I love moments like this

This little lad was great. I asked him if he’d like to stand where I was to take a group shot and he said “No thanks, I’m fine here.”

I don’t like the ‘formals’ to be too formal. I think they mean more when there is a bit of life to them, even if they don’t look like the traditional line ups

Lisa’s gorgeous daughters – fabulous bridesmaids!

A bit of bridal tickling

The bouquet posing for its own photo

This one breaks just about every rule, but I like it

Beautiful mother of the groom

The ushers. No not really, just a bunch of characters hanging around outside

I attended Emily’s house near Colchester for the bridal preparations.

but not neglecting the grandfather preparations!

It doesn’t matter that you’re the father of the bride, if you’re expecting guests back in the evening, there are chores to be done.

After a short ride in an enormous Rolls Royce, we arrived at the beautiful Maison Talbooth overlooking Dedham Vale. As it was such a small wedding, there was a very relaxed atmosphere, with the guests sitting on armchairs and sofas. Steve’s father provided the entertainment while they waited for Emily to arrive.

Emily was given away by her father and grandfather

I love the expressions on the girls faces here

After the ceremony there was time for group photos and a stroll in the grounds

We then headed off to Le Talbooth restaurant, a short distance away, for lunch.

There is obviously a very special bond between Emily and her grandfather, and I think this photo sums it up.

A lovely day, and I wish them every happiness.