Camilla and Nick's was a wedding I had been looking forward to for a long time. I had met them back in 2009 at a wedding I shot on the Dorset coast where Nick was an usher. Fast forward to 2012 and we arrive in Fordingbridge, just outside the New Forest where Nick's family farm is. A wonderful day was in store for all...
The marquee was HUGE and was decorated with beautiful local flowers. Of course being on a farm meant there was a few other things to photograph as well, not least, Fluffy the bull.
Camilla's preparations had her tucked away in the couple's house on the farm, and with excitement building she did well not to peer out the windows and see what the boys were up to, probably for the best though as sat in the yard was the biggest Massey Ferguson tractor I've ever seen and a very happy Nick, who'd convinced the local dealership to lend it to him (it was a 7620 Dyna 6 for you tractor aficionados!)
Of course why have just have one tractor when you can have two? Nick brought his own smaller version out to play and together they formed the basis for the grand entrance to the marquee. What followed was an excellent effort by seven grown men to hang some bunting between the two tractors. Worth it in the end though chaps eh?!
With the church ceremony approaching a quick spruce up was required and eventually Groom and his ushers made their way to the pub for a swift pint...
St Mary's Church has a very welcoming atmosphere and with guests filling every seat, even more so. The ceremony was a celebration of happiness and an added highlight was the truly breathtaking performance of Ave Maria by a close friend, moistening even the hardiest eyes. The confetti line, with 180 people throwing, meant the Bride and Groom were suitably plastered by the end of it.
Back then to the farm where the newlyweds and I went off to get some splendid shots at some cool locations. The sun made a glancing appearance for us, just long enough to add a touch of Autumnal warmth...
Camilla and Nick were keen to have a less formal shot of the bridesmaids and ushers, so happy to get creative I used the tractor bunting entrance as the stage. The result is pretty cool and definitely beats a traditional group photograph.
Drinks, canapes and laughter were to be found back in the marquee and soon everyone was led through and seated in anticipation of the speeches. They didn't disappoint. Originality and delivery is key to a good speech and in this case all the speakers held their own, riding the crowds applause, heckles and cheers.
Farmers love their meat and Nick is no exception! A great idea for the main course was the specially selected carver for each table, not forgetting their fetching apron to match. These chosen few had the responsibility of carving the joints and dishing them out much to the rest of the tables amusement.
The dancing followed and what a night it became! A great first dance opened the flood gates to a a fantastic effort from all ages on the dance floor. The Deloreons truly rocked with their 8-piece band and the partying went well into the night.
If you are getting married and would like to find out if I can capture the party atmosphere at your wedding then do head to my website Wedding Photographer Somerset to find out more.
And so it was on the sixth day of October in the year two thousand and twelve that Beth and James were declared married.
Here is the story of their day over four locations and two ceremonies...
Proceedings started in Totness at the Friend's Meeting House. Beth is a Quaker and this was my first experience of a Quaker wedding. It is a very peaceful ceremony, with a remarkable silence allowing Friends and family alike to reflect before giving words of love, support or guidance for the couple. No photographs are permitted during the service and this actually allowed me to take in importance of the event as well. Everyone present then signs the Quaker marriage certificate, which is written in beautiful calligraphy. With a Registrar present the marriage paperwork is done afterwards to make it a legal binding.
Following this we headed to Bovisand Lodge Estate for the preparations. James manages the estate and holiday park here. It is set in a beautiful location with sea views and has beach access. Unfortunately, there wasn't time to get photographs with the couple down here, (but never fear, another beach was on hand later!)
Whilst James was already dressed and ready to go, Beth meanwhile had an outfit change hair and makeup to do.
On next to the quite sublime St Werburgh's Church, Wembury that is located right on the south Devon coast. As they had already completed the legal part of the wedding ceremony this church blessing meant that this presented the rare treat of Bride and Groom entering the church together! A touching service followed and concluded with a surprise guard of honour outside with the chaps from James' old rowing club using oars instead!
After the formal group shots I whisked Beth and James away for some alone time and a chance to get some really special images. The sun was racing towards the horizon and giving us a wonderful light to play with. We even managed to head down to the beach below the church and got some really beautiful moments.
The wedding reception was held in a wonderful Tentipi in Down Thomas. I love these tents, they always create a good atmosphere inside. There was also a chill out tent for the children and a booze tent for the adults! A fire-pit in the main tent kept us warm and marshmallows were on hand for those with a sweet tooth. The delightful wedding sponge cake looked incredible.
With
some additional wireless flashes I was able to get a nice fill light on the
speakers during the speeches and this complimented the band's colourful
strobes on the tent.
The first dance shifted in tempo half way through and elicited a rapturous applause from the cheering guests who then hit the dance floor themselves to the band's cool sounds.
It
is special thing to find two people so genuine, kind and welcoming.
Beth and James really made me feel like part of the family and their
warmth and care is shared with everyone they meet. I'd like to congratulate them on an awesome wedding and for allowing me to capture it in the best way I know how. It was a real treat.
If you would like to find out more about my wedding photography then drop me an email on info@simonbiffenphotography.co.uk or make contact through my website.
