Friends & Family & a Lotta Lotta Love!
I just stood back for a moment and watched this group celebrate…really celebrate!
After a year of negotiating change, regulations and uncertainty, on June 26th 2021, a sunny day in Stratford-upon-Avon, Anna & David + 15 loved ones came together to celebrate…Perfectly, beautifully, celebrate.
Absolutely Stunning!
Wedding Shoot Day- Part 1
Lately, I’d been thinking about my early love of photography, when I’d just spend an entire day shooting and experimenting with no brief, no assignment, no rules…just shooting for the fun of it. When, I heard about this “Shoot Day”, I quickly signed up. I packed my cameras, dropped the dog at the in-laws and headed to Walcot Hall to work with the best of the best.
Big thanks to the Photography Farm, their team, the models, stylists, artists & suppliers, etc, etc, etc all listed below. They made this day happen. And, I literally just rocked up and photographed all day long, just for the fun of it. And this is how it went!
Workshop: @photographyfarm Workshop Leaders: @devlinphotos & @rebeccacarpenterphotography
Planning & Styling: @thestarsinside Venue: @walcothall Videography: @rixweddings
Bridalwear: @bertaprivee @janehillbridal @lazarobridal and Willow Victoria from @victorialoubridal
Hair & Make-up: @stormemakeupartist Veils: @sashandveil Flowers: @pheasant_botanica
Stationery & Calligraphy: @mathildalundin Table Runner & Silk Ribbons: @pompomblossom
Table Linen: @gaiabespokelinen Cakes / Desserts: @thesweetestthingcakery Menswear: @ asos
Rings: @erincoxjewellery @moltenweddingringco Earrings & Necklaces: @martefrisnesjewellery
Headpieces: @rachelchaprunne Hat: @chapeauuk Shell Crown: @discordiadesigns
Couples: @officialrmgmodels_ & @kathrynmegan_
Workshop Assistants: @thomasoscarmiles & @lisabluefox
Rachel & Nick’s Elopement
After having their BIG wedding plans re-scheduled (several times), Rachel & Nick just wanted to be married. So on a bright October afternoon, I met the two of them, their two children and two friends outside the Henley Room registry office in Stratford-upon-Avon. Well, I say met…I smiled and waved (from a safe distance). I photographed the ceremony (on my tip toes) reaching through a small opening of a small Tudor window. So happy that I was able to capture it! After the “I do’s” we walked down to the River for a few photos to commemorate the Day. They’re still hoping to have BIG celebrations with all the family and friends (and the official wedding dress) sometime soon. But today, they just wanted to be married. How wonderful!
Priodas Nia a Ceri/The Wedding of Nia & Ceri
In a little church in the beautiful Welsh countryside, Nia & Ceri were married.
Then onto the tractors for a lift to the first reception. What a way to travel! Stopped at a gorgeous location, where we could see the sea. Stopped for drinks, canapés, speeches, an ice cream truck, some photos, and lots and lots of laughs! Then, back onto the tractors to the village hall, decorated by family and friends to perfection. Just gorgeous! Then came the sunset, the amazing food, more speeches (lotta lotta love!) and more drinks. Then came the talent, absolutely amazing talent (all family and friends); the comedy, the scat (singing) battle, the singing, the dancing, and then more singing and more dancing. What a day! What a night!
Aimee & Tom’s Wedding Day!
I met Aimee & Tom at The Henley Room in Stratford-upon-Avon. It was a lovely intimate ceremony with close family and friends. Aimee & Tom and I headed down to the River Avon for a few photographs, as the guests headed over to The White Swan. After the photos by the River we joined the guests for some more photos, great speeches and lots of laughs!
A photo shoot with Chelsea
During a quick trip to California this November, I wanted to capture the Californian winter sun…with a bit of glamour! Chelsea kindly agreed to model for me. I wanted the photos to depict a natural portrait with a bit of a fashion shoot thrown in. I experimented with a traditional filter for a few of the photographs. Chelsea looked absolutely stunning and we photographed in the warm, late afternoon sunshine. Thanks Chelsea!
Grace & Austin’s Wedding!
Married on Santorini, Greece…Partied at Stratford Park Hotel, England. On a sunny September evening in Stratford-upon-Avon, a few weeks after Grace & Austin’s actual wedding day, they celebrated with family & friends. Drinks in the sunshine outside, “learn to play the harp” workshop inside, tables decorated with all things Greek, group photos, speeches, dinner and dancing. I joined them just for a few hours, to catch a bit of the action.
Ellie & George’s Wedding Day!
The day started at the 14th Century, Great Hall at Lord Leycester Hospital in Warwick. It was a prefect day for a Wedding. Ellie arrived looking absolutely beautiful. Big smiles and a lovely ceremony at a stunning venue.
Champagne and “Congratulations” in the courtyard, then off to Alveston Pastures Farm for the reception with a short stop in the woods for some photographs. The Barn looked fantastic with all of the personal touches and decorations. Confetti, drinks, dinner, and some relaxing on the lawn! Then dancing and a few final photos just before the sun set.
Katie & Kyle’s Wedding Day!
Never photographed a wedding in Philadelphia before…but then again, my niece has never been getting married before.
Packed a new dress, my equipment, my husband & off we went to Philly. Home of the philly steak sandwich, the Rocky steps, the Liberty Bell, and currently…Katie & Kyle.
Started at the hotel with the bride and 8 (yes 8) bridesmaids. Then to Kyle’s room and the 8 groomsmen (and father of the groom).
We headed out to do the “First Look” between Katie & Kyle and then joined by “good boy”, Cooper (the dog), and the16 others. Then to the ceremony at St Augustine Church…stunning! After that, we all headed back to the “very cool” MAAS building for the reception, transported by a big yellow school bus, of course. A few more photos…then cameras down and dancing shoes on.
What a day…what a night. Thanks both and Congratulations!
Anna & Simon’s Wedding Day!
It was a chilly February afternoon at Tredington Church. Anna and bridesmaids stepped out of a fabulous vintage VW bus, looking absolutely gorgeous. After a lovely ceremony and a few quick photos in the cold, we all headed to the Castle at Edgehill for the wedding reception.
The view was stunning and the marquee (Anna & Simon designed & created themselves) well,…Wow! Flowers & greenery, suspended wreaths and lighting, hessian, candles, lace, wooden tables & chairs. Stunning! When I stepped in from the cold, it was like a lovely warm embrace. It took my breath away!
Once the sun set, it was sparklers, bonfires, and toasted marshmallows. And of course, drinks and dancing in the Castle ‘til late.
The Wedding Day: It’s a story about Jodi & Luke & their Children (and, the Music… lots and lots of music!)
What a day! A beautiful ceremony under the trees. A fantastic wedding procession to Talton Lodge with music by Iron Boot Scrapers. The teepee, the yurt, the boat, the orchard, the ping pong. The singing, the dancing, the smiles…lots and lots of smiles. I’ll say it again…What a day!
Gabi & Adam’s Wedding Day!
Another beautiful day…for a Wedding! I started at Gabi’s family home as she was getting her make-up done. Absolutely gorgeous! And that dress…fabulous! We had a few family wedding photographs before we all left for the Church. I met Adam (a VERY keen cyclist) and his best man having a bit of fun on the tandem. After a beautiful wedding ceremony, we all headed over to Alveston Pastures Farm (just outside Stratford-upon-Avon) for the reception/wedding breakfast, games, speeches, and, of course, more wedding photos!
Gabi & Adam’s Pre Wedding Shoot
I really love pre wedding photo shoots! We decided to meet in these lovely woods in Warwickshire! It was bright and sunny and just perfect for some natural and relaxed photos. Gabi & Adam were a pleasure to photograph and up for anything! Loads of fun!
With a love of Books, Shakespeare, Friends & Family, Gemma and Stu created an amazing Wedding Day!
I first met Gemma & Stu about 2 years before their Big Day! The more I got to know them and hear about their plans, I knew I was going to love this wedding! When I got to Gemma she was already looking gorgeous. After her hair and make-up, came a surprise video message from her favourite actor, Edward Bennet (organised by Stu, of course). Nice one Stu! Looking absolutely stunning, Gemma arrived at the Town Hall, just as it started to rain. Still smiling, and smiling throughout the entire ceremony, we watched Gemma & Stu say “I do”. The rain stopped, so we all had a procession to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre for canapes, drinks, and photos. Then Gemma & Stu and I took a walk along Waterside for a few more pics. Then up to the RSC Upper Circle Bar for speeches (great speeches). Then up again to the RSC Rooftop Restaurant just before sunset. What a view! Dinner, more photos and then…Well, then the party really started.
Hazel & Chris’ Wedding Day
Well, Billesley Manor’s lawn was transformed into a country fete for Hazel & Chris’ fantastic Wedding. I started with Hazel & friends getting ready. Just fantastic! Hazel’s gorgeous plaits were in progress and the atmosphere was just lovely. After the ceremony Hooch joined us for some photos, such a fab 4 legged model. The rains came…and then went so the games began, Welly Wanging, Cornhole, Viking Kubb and many many more. The rain stayed away, so Hazel & Chris joined in the games, blew some bubbles and finished off the night with photos on the haystacks at sunset. Perfect!
Daisy & Chris’ Wedding Day!
Daisy is a California girl, so family & friends made the trip to Walton Hall for the Wedding Day! Perfect weather, lots of smiles, lots of tears… and cocktails. Gorgeous, the lot of them, and that dress…just stunning. The perfect venue, sun shining, giant jenga and checkers on the lawn. Chris and friends made excellent balloon animals with lots of laughs, then came the bouncing. What a day. Just perfect!
Lisa & David’s Wedding!
Lisa & David’s wedding started at Alveston Church (just outside Stratford-upon-Avon). This is the same church I got married in, so quite special to me! After a lovely wedding ceremony, Lisa & David took off down the country lane in a lovely little vintage number to Alveston Pastures Farm for the wedding celebrations! Everyone was relaxed, happy and all smiles! The evening sun came and we had more laughs on the lawn.
A walk in the Welcombe Hills with Lisa & David, for a pre wedding shoot, just a few weeks before the wedding day.
Lisa & David’s pre wedding shoot at the Welcombe Hills, Stratford-upon-Avon. A good walk, a sunny Spring afternoon, a great way to get to know each other. Here’s a few of my favourites.
Kellie at Huntington Beach Pier
I just got back from California visiting the family. My niece, Kellie and I headed down to Huntington Beach Pier for a few photos. So much fun!
Gemma & Stu’s Pre Wedding Shoot at the RSC
I loved this pre wedding/engagement shoot with Gemma & Stu. We decided to have a little play with some different locations in Stratford-upon-Avon, as that’s where the wedding is going to be. So, we started at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. I love these photographs! Gemma & Stu were so natural and fun, it was a pleasure to photograph them. And, what a location! We then went up the road to The Other Place. I wanted to see that rusty building with Gemma’s gorgeous red tones! Love these photos!! Then a quick outfit change and walk along Waterside. Guys, you really look fab! Cant wait for the Wedding Day!
Daisy & Chris’ Pre Wedding Shoot!
We met at Shakespeare’s Birthplace Gardens late afternoon for the pre wedding (engagement shoot). Daisy & Chris are so lovely and natural together, I knew we’d get some great images! We then headed for the river. After some impressive rowing by Chris up and down…and up the Avon, we took a few moments near shore for a few more photos, just as the swans came over to have a look. As the sun was setting, we headed onto dry land for some final photographs near the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the willow trees. What a way to spend an August afternoon!
Caroline & Ben…Amazing Country Wedding!
It all started at the Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall. It’s such a stunning wedding location. And Caroline looked breathtaking! After the wedding ceremony we all headed into the countryside. What a location! The view, the marquee and all those special touches…every detail. Wow! They decorated it all themselves and it was truly stunning. After some hilarious wedding speeches, lots of wedding photographs, a lot of friends and family, well then…the costumes/props came out and the dancing started!
Millar’s Christening
Caroline & Ben’s Pre Wedding Shoot!
We decided to do the pre wedding engagement shoot on the spot that the marquee was going to be come May! I love these. The photo shoot helped us get to know each other a bit better. Caroline & Ben were fantastic (so natural in front of the camera) so funny and completely natural together. Cant wait for the wedding next month! Something tells me the’re going to be a stunning Bride & Groom!
Victoria & Gary’s Wedding Day! She smiled all Day!
Victoria and her bridesmaids were getting ready at The George Townhouse in Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire. So, that’s where I started! She looked gorgeous, and was smiling the entire time! We then headed into Stratford-upon-Avon for the wedding ceremony at the Town Hall. Victoria had an even a bigger smile during the ceremony! Fanatastic! After that, it was off to the open countryside for the reception. They had a perfect set-up for their country wedding. Loved that marquee, the bunting, and that “help yourself Gin Yummy”. A few more photos, then the party started.
Emily & John’s Wedding Day!
Stunning venue and such great day! The entire day was at Wethele Manor, from start to finish. Emily and her bridesmaids were getting ready in a room on site, so that’s where I started! Stunning. Loved the hair, the makeup, the dress. It all just fit, looked perfect. The wedding ceremony was outside on a lovely August afternoon. What more could you want? Speeches, Vodka, ice cream, games and…some running, of course?? Loved it! I had a blast, thanks you two!
Carley & Phil’s Wedding Day!
When I first met Carley & Phil, I just knew their Wedding Day was going to be fantastic and lots of fun. On the Day, when I arrived, Carley was looking absolutely gorgeous (even with those rollers in her hair!)
The ceremony and speeches were fantastic, lots and lots of tears…and that was just the father of the bride! Walton Hall is a stunning venue in a stunning location and the with that perfect weather we enjoyed the countryside into the early evening. Lots of photos, lots of fun! It was a perfect Day. I was so honoured to be a little part of it. Thanks Carley & Phil!
Alice & James Wedding Day! An Amazing Country Wedding!
After hearing about Alice & James’ plans, I was so looking forward to photographing their Wedding Day. The reception was at the grounds of James’ family home in Billesley, Aston Cantlow. A real genuine country wedding! All of the personal touches were really something special, the welcome banner, the family tree (on an actual tree), the bunting, the ribbons, the hay bails (just to name a few) and, of course that beautifully decorated marquee. And, my favourite, the lanterns hanging in the tree in the far distance, in the middle of the field…at sunset…on a warm summer’s evening! Wow! What a Wedding!
Hayley & Bump!
Katie & Ben’s Wedding!
I started in Warwick with Katie and her bridesmaids. Gorgeous! Then across to the pub to see Ben and his groomsmen. Over to Sherbourne Church for the lovely Wedding ceremony. Then, off to one of my favourite places, Compton Verney, for the reception. The rain started and stopped. We just managed to step out for some photographs before sunset. Walked along the bridge and amongst the Henri Moore and Rodin sculptures. What a stunning Wedding!
Carley & Phil’s Pre Wedding Shoot at the Cotswold Lavender Fields
We had an amazing pre wedding shoot at the Cotswold Lavender Fields in Broadway, Worcestershire. I met Carley & Phil in the late afternoon for a fantastic, relaxing photo shoot. They were so sweet and relaxed together. We had a lovely time and got some fantastic photographs.
Amy & Andy’s Pre Wedding Photo Shoot at Wollaton Deer Park!
I met Amy & Andy at the Wollaton Deer Park for their Pre-Wedding photo shoot. It was absolutely fantastic! I hadn’t been there before so we did a bit of exploring as the deer roamed in the background. It was a bit magical. Amy & Andy are great and I am so looking forward to photographing the Wedding!
Lucy & Jon’s Wedding Day!
These two are so much fun! The wedding started on a sunny afternoon at Lord Leycester Hospital, a stunning Warwickshire location. Lucy arrived in a gorgeous bright blue mini. Lots of laughs, lots of smiles! After the ceremony I headed to a little woodland to get some wedding photographs of just the 2 of them (well the 3 of them, if we count the Mini)! We had so much fun and then headed to the Claverdon Village Hall fin Warwickshire or the wedding reception. They had decorated it themselves and it looked absolutely amazing! I do love a village hall!
Emma & Ahmed’s Wedding Day! A Beautiful Winter Wedding
I started with Emma getting ready at the Shakespeare Hotel. She looked radiant, showing off that baby bump. Beautiful! The wedding ceremony & reception were at the Stratford Town Hall. Lovely room and absolutely beautifully decorated. It was a great Day, lots of smiles!
Clare & Murphy’s Wedding Day!
Clare & Murphy were married in their Church, where they had first met. It was a beautiful wedding ceremony, full of family, friends and lots and lots of love! We had some photographs in the the Church and then we all headed over to Wootton Park for the wedding celebrations. Clare & Murphy were driven in that fantastic VW Beetle. (Such style!) The venue and decorations looked great. Loved their gifts to their guests. Great idea! Lots more photos outside with friends and sparklers. Then some photos with just the two of them. Great Day!
Nia Lynn’s Latest Album
Spent the afternoon photographing the amazing singer, Nia Lynn. We were working on images to promote her latest album, Points of View.
The day went a little like this:
Along the River, past the wires and into the yellow field. A bit overcast and a little windy.
Some singing, some laughing, greetings to a dog, and apologies to the farmer.
Shooting ‘til the rain came. No better place to be! (Here are just a few favourites.)
The album is out now www.whirlwindrecordings.com
Kyla & Mark’s Wedding Day!
I started with Kyla (and Company) at Gorgeous Obsessions, in Stratford, getting hair, make-up and nails done! Four (yes, 4!) generations of lovely ladies, getting ready for the Big Day. Such a great atmosphere. We then headed over to The Arden Hotel for the wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, we all strolled along Waterside for some “relaxed” wedding photos. This group was definitely there to have a good time. And we did! They were genuinely full of love and laughs the entire time I was photographing!
Sarah & Rob’s Wedding Day!
Vicki & Alex’s Wedding Day!
Sarah & Phil’s Wedding Day!
Katie-May & Josh’s Wedding Day!
Katie-May and Josh’s Pre Wedding Shoot!
Jo & James’ Wedding Day!
Jo & James were married at Alveston Manor Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon, on a cold December afternoon.The wedding was just a few days after Christmas. The warmth of the family and friends made it just perfect on this chilly day! We did manage to get outside for a few wedding photographs but then finished off in the warmth by the big lovely fireplace!
Sam & Andrew’s Wedding Day!
Dominique & Chris’ Wedding Day!
Cameras & Coffee
Cameras and Coffee…these are a few of my favourite things…I’m very excited to have an exhibition at Box Brownie, in Stratford-upon-Avon.
It started with me agreeing to put up a few photos on the walls of this fab coffee house. Somehow, I got carried away and before I knew it, I had set myself a bit of a task.
I created a body of work specific for the venue and space. This meant completely new work, from concept to framed images, which for some reason I insisted on mounting and framing myself.
Before I knew it, the Preview Night had arrived. With spirit level and measureing tape, my husband hung 11 framed images onto the lovely old wonky walls. After a glass of champagne and a toast, we were off to a great night.
I dislike the idea of early cameras becoming completely redundant and discarded. So, I used them to create and star in this body of work.
These images are of cameras that originally fuelled my passion for photography. They are from my personal collection, some I used regularly and often.
There’s a bit of history & love here, please come and enjoy!
The work is on display until May 25th.
Box Brownie, 20 Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon
It really is the best coffee around!
Sally & Alan
Susanna & Tim
The Day started with Susanna getting ready in a beautiful, spacious suite, at The Welcombe Hotel. Just a short drive from the hotel, Susanna arrived at the church. The rain started, the umbrellas came out, still smiling, she made a run for the Church! Just as the ceremony finished, the rain stopped, the sun came out, the confetti was thrown and Susanna & Tim headed to the reception in the Groom’s pride and joy! Lots of smiles and lots of laughs. A truly lovely couple and Lovely Summer Wedding!
Nicola & Luke
Nic was so calm and relaxed when I arrived, and looked absolutely stunning. (make up by Charlotte Carey) And how about that dress and those shoes? The colours were light blue and lemon, such a fantastic, fresh combination. Family and friends were absolutely lovely too!
What can I say guys, it was fairy tale perfect.
...And they lived happily ever after!
Karen & Jonny
I started with Karen getting ready at the house with bridesmaids, flower girls, friends and family. Such a great atmosphere. Karen and her father headed off to Holy Trinity Church in a horse drawn carriage. The rest of us took the white stretch limo, of course. Never been chauffeured to photograph a wedding before! (Could get used to that!) The church, the ceremony and Karen’s choir group…just beautiful. Afterwards, I photographed Karen and Jonny and their gorgeous daughter. As the guests waited, chatted, sat in the sun, suddenly, several boats arrived and docked.Yep! All the guests (and me), boarded and cruised down the River Avon, to the Alveston Manor Hotel for the reception. Such a lovely idea! What a day!
Ellie & Matt
“Jolly not Stuffy” was Matt’s description when talking about the style of the photos. I can definitely work with that brief! The Day started at Ellie’s parent’s house, then off to Alveston Church. Final destination, Wethele Manor, in that classic Jag. What style! A fantastic relaxed vibe, an amazing sunny day, a warm sunset over the fields. Lots of smile and lots of laughs. Definitely Jolly!
Gemma & Paul
When I entered the hotel suite, the first thing I heard Gemma say was “This is so much Fun!” And that’s how The Day went. A Beautiful Bride (like a Bond Girl), 5 gorgeous bridesmaids in hot pink, 3 lovely flower girls, a London bus and a classic Lincoln for transport,lots of Swords and Men in Uniform! Did I mention the Space Hopper Races? And that First Dance…It makes me smile every time I look at the photos!
Well, Gemma & Paul, I know I was supposed to be working but…“It was so much Fun!”
Tara & James
An English country wedding with a Vegas themed reception. I loved it! It was so fantastic. My husband’s cousin was getting married, and I…well I brought my camera.
A beautiful church wedding with a marquee in a nearby field, bouncy castle, ice cream bicycle, all the sweets you could eat, and a never ending football match…kids against grown-ups.
Lots of family and lots of laughs. A few of my favourite pics.
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