Wedding - Mr & Mrs Marchant
From the moment I sat down with Emily & Chris to discuss the details of the day over ice cream sundaes, I knew this was going to be a fun wedding. Made even more special by a recently successful IVF treatment! I love these photographs so much and feel they really reflect the essence of the day, and the personalities of this couple. So obviously I've crammed in as many as possible into one blog post...
I arrived at a beautiful Norfolk country cottage called Shepley House at 11am on a mild September morning to join in the excitement of the bridal party getting ready, just as Emily's daughter Jamie was finished having her hair done. I can still hear the reaction of everyone seeing Jamie's beautiful hair styled, so grown up!
Having moved on to the main venue and unpacked at the Keeper and the Dell I started to photograph the surroundings and guests beginning to arrive, when the heavens opened. A Relentless downpour. I worried for the couples outdoor ceremony, and was sure that my 'It never rains when I do weddings' streak was over.. but nobody can help the weather *sigh*
Chris made the brave decision to carry on as planned and not move the ceremony inside. Which worked out... Heavy rain turned to drizzle as the bridal party arrived ahead of the bride, by the time Emily's car pulled into the driveway the rain had stopped. Jamie looked at her mum, smiled and managed to whisper 'I love you' before giving her a big cuddle.
Emily looked amazing in her size 10 (barely altered and not maternity) wedding dress - I know!
Chris didn't turn around until Emily tapped his shoulder, and his reaction was so priceless. It's my favourite part of any wedding.
Chris and Emily met in the RAF, so their best friend and master of ceremonies Spencer came up with a brilliant RAF themed speech right before the couple took their vows.
Spencer joked that the pressure to perform the ceremony was so high that he needed a drink, and brought out a flask, which the bride promptly grabbed to smell what was inside. He said "It's only water...", she took a sip and replied "It is NOT!"
Speeches were hilarious, touching and hilarious again. And everyone was visibly moved by the tributes to absent family. The mood quickly turned around by mentioning Chris' technique to cure the hiccups!
Towards the end of the speeches a hint of wood-smoke drifted in - the fire pit was alight, surrounded by hay bales and hand made crochet blankets for the guests. Such a cosy feel that takes you right back to memories of cuddling round a camp fire with your family.
I spent the rest of the day capturing the unique moments of a wonderful family and their friends celebrating an awesome love, playing cricket, and enjoying the nicest looking cakes... ever. These guys know how to party!
Thank you both for asking me to be there, it was such a privilege! Wishing you love, luck and happiness together x
AirBNB rental (bridal prep): Shepley House
Venue: The Keeper and the Dell
Catering: Pandora's Kitchen, Norwich
Photo Booth Mirror: Celebration Cars