Getting ready
Back In April of this year, we had the privilege of photographing the wedding of Mike & Katie Shaw. This was a special one for us as it happened in the village we live in, Peasedown St John. I always find it interesting when there is a cross-over between people you see every day working on the high street and the places you see all time, to then seeing them through the eyes of photography and especially Wedding Photography.
Some beautiful weather blessed us on the day, Heidi with Katie the bride and myself with Mike over at the Castle in Frome. The day got off to a great start and there was so much excitement from all parties.
As we are a husband and wife duo Heidi my wife will always go to the bride’s house to take images of the getting ready for the bride, and I will start my day with the groom. Katie got ready at her family home in Peasedown St John and Mike at their reception venue in Frome.
The Ceremony
For both Mike and Katie one of the things they were especially looking forward to on their wedding day was to have fun and laughter with friends and family. We love to get to know our couples to the point where we feel we are friends as well, and this always helps make them feel more comfortable around us so, in turn, we’re able to capture the real moments of the day.
The whole day was based around a spring theme, the colours, decor, and choice of venue, and there were lots of little surprises built into the day to make it more exciting for the guests also.
Katie has always wanted to get married in a church. growing up a Christian this was important to her, the ceremony took place at Peasedown St John Methodist Church, where her parents attend, the doorway was decorated with beautiful sprint coloured flowers, and really made for a grand entrance.
The Wedding Breakfast
The reception venue was Elmhay Park in Frome, which is part of the Orchardleigh Estate. The venue is beautiful starting with a closed drinks area at the front, this is where the guests awaited the arrival of the Bride and Groom, and from here the doors were opened to reveal the beautiful gardens and orangery behind. And with the perfect sunny weather, we went from a darker drinks area into a bright beautiful open space.
Elmhay Park is absolutely stunning and from a photographer’s point of view a dream. The beautiful architecture, views and light all played a big part in the images.
Everyone enjoyed the lawn games, drinks and canapes, and as the guests started to look for their seats, we whisked the couple away to have their Bride and Groom portraits.
Behind the orangery there is “The Village” this is actually the accommodation for the site and is equally stunning. We took a quick few shots with the couple at this pace before they went in for their reception.
The Sit Down
From here everyone found their seats and enjoyed good company and laughter, and some cracking best men speeches.
We had all of your traditional items happen, Cutting the cake (although this was made from Cheese) and then moving on to the first dance. This was one of Maike and Katies wow items, they had learnt an entire routine for the wedding and nobody knew.
We always love if the weather permits to get the couple back outside for some sunset pictures, there’s just something about this kind of light.
