This couple and their families are simply amazing!
I was so excited and giddy to be booked by Louisa and Jack, not only because they are awesome but I love photographing historic buildings and what better than a 1000-year-old castle (aside from Gloucester Cathedral as I'm still waiting to get booked on that one!) in Gloucestershire?
PLUS I got to work again with one of my besties Lynne Jessett Floristry!
The day was also very memorable as Storm Arwen was battering the UK and as I left that morning, there was a flurry of snow as I set off for Torteworth Court deep in the Cotswolds countryside where Louisa was getting ready. My assistant photographer Jonathan went to photograph Jack and his family in a cottage by the castle.
Both Roger (Videographer) and I covered the bridal preparations with the amazing MUA Jennifer and hairstylist Laura. Thankfully all hair and makeup had been finished when the power went out in the whole area. There was also a plus side as when we all left, we got to the castle so much more quickly as there were no red lights on the road!!
St Mary's church that held the ceremony is on the site of the Castle. It has beautiful high ceilings and decorations throughout. Roger the videographer and myself were not allowed to take photos near the front at the vicar's request so we stuck to the back and halfway down the sides to capture the special moments. We were allowed at the front for the signing of the register and a few quick photos before we headed to the back to capture the walk back down the aisle. We headed outside for the confetti - not an easy thing to do in storm force winds but the pictures turned out perfectly.
Louisa and Jack then headed off on a carriage ride around the castle grounds whilst the guests headed over to the castle to get warm (it was freezing!) by the fire and enjoy drinks and canapes. As the sun sets much earlier in the day (around 4 pm at this point) we decided to do the couples photos first and then do the family groups inside and after the wedding breakfast due to the weather. This gave us more time to cover the grounds and relax a bit whilst we explored and gave the newlyweds some time to take it all in and enjoy some moments together.
The Great Hall was the setting for the speeches and meal and walking in absolutely took everyone's breath away! With a gigantic Christmas tree, pianist, Disney themed wedding cake and exquisitely decorated tables by Lynne Jessett Floristry and the team at the Castle it was definitely fit for a princess.
After the meal, we set up some indoor lighting in one of the side rooms in the gallery for photos in front of an ornate fireplace with antique chairs and then everyone was ready to party. After the couples first dance was a touching moment when her maternal grandfather and mother took to the dance floor alone for a special dance just for the two of them. Louisa's mother hadn't had the chance for the first dance with her father at her own wedding so they wanted this special moment for them. I'll remember the look not just on their faces but the guests as well for a long time. It was pure love... what Weddings are all about.
All in all, a beautiful and enchanting day, full of love, joy, happiness and laughter - the perfect wedding.
Florist: Lynne Jessett Floristry
Bridal Gown: Taffeta and Lace Bridal
MUA: Jennifer Dytham (JD Hair and Make Up)
HUA: Laura Turner Extend and Style
Second Photographer/Drone: Jonathan St John
Videographer: Roger from Diamond Wedding Films
