Unfortunately the weather turned and we had our fair share of rain on the big day, which isn’t what you want for a predominantly outdoor wedding. Do you know what, it didn’t affect the day at all really. Everyone was so happy and Katie and Phil had allowed plenty of time in between the ceremony and the reception for photos and mingling, that we got all the photos done – even if it did mean hopping in and out of the marquee to take cover!

I was so pleased with the photos from the day and really enjoyed it – can’t wait to get my next booking there now!

I started the day with Katie in a gorgeous b&b down the road. She didn’t have any bridesmaids, so for most of the morning it was just me and her (with her mum and dad popping in occasionally!) which was really nice.

I was super excited when I saw that she had a Jenny Packham dress.

Doesn’t she look stunning?

Then I headed onto the Larmer Tree.

I love this one of Katie and her dad walking to the ceremony, they look so relaxed!

You can see the pouring rain behind Phil and his best man, Giles here!

The painting mural in the stage is just beautiful for couple shots.

Speeches time!

Gail, at the Larmer Tree is one of the best wedding coordinators I’ve ever worked with, she worked tirelessly all day, her attention to detail is second to none.

I love all the big cushions and sofas at the Larmer Tree – so comfy and relaxing for the guests!

The band, Candy Stripes were amazing – really friendly too.

Thanks Katie and Phil for an amazing day – hope you continue to be as happy in your marriage as you were on your wedding day.

Claire and Andrew got married at St John Church, Hedge End and had their reception at Botley Park Hotel just up the road. It’s quite a modern hotel with gorgeous grounds and their own Championship golf course on site – which made for some great shots!

I started off with the girls at Claire’s parent’s house (where she grew up) so she was getting ready in “her old room” I loved the doll’s house, I could just imagine Claire playing with this when she was younger!

I then headed over to the church to meet up with the boys. Andy seemed very relaxed!

I wasn’t allowed to take any photos during the ceremony itself, so just the signing of the register.

Claire and Andy had arranged a bus to transport all their guests! What a fab idea.

I love this confetti shot!

We were allowed to use the golf buggies to navigate the huge golf course! The wedding coordinator chauffeured me in a buggy behind Claire and Andy – hilarious!

The speeches were really funny – Claire’s dad Roger, had some great expressions!

I have a feeling this part of the speech was something to do with the rivalry between Portsmouth football club and Southampton football club!

A little bit of music for drinks reception before the dancing started. They were really good.

They even had chocolate fountains, yum! The dancing was fab, everyone got involved!

Thanks again Claire and Andrew for an amazing day, hope you’re enjoying married life!

We found out last March (we think he was a Valentines baby!) so I did my normal whole summer of weddings, getting fatter by the day (my bump was a great place to rest my heavy camera!) – I even did four weddings in September when I was 8 months pregnant! (Thanks to Becky for coming along and being my second shooter/bag carrier/assistant).

Our little one kept us waiting – I was 13 days overdue when I was induced and had him two weeks after his due date, after 25 hours of labour – but he was so worth the wait! We’ve called him Joseph Richard after our dads and we can’t believe he’s three months old already. All of the photos I’ve taken (including ones on my iphone) are so valuable as he’s changing every day.

It was hard to choose which photos to put on here (as you can imagine I’ve taken LOADS!). A big thanks goes out to Emily from Emily Hancock Photography and Stu from Cooper Photography for braving the cold beach in November to do my pregnancy/maternity shoot and another thanks to Emily coming to take some family ones (even though she was 8 months pregnant too!).

My favourite thing so far about having a baby is watching my husband Rob with him. They’re like peas in a pod and Rob just is smitten (well of course we both are!) but Rob’s an even better Dad than I thought possible. It’s been an amazing life changing time and I love having my own family.

So just to let you know I’m still a photographer and my business is still running! Check back soon as I’ve still got lots of weddings from last year that I plan to blog, plus I’m sure there may be the odd blogpost or two about little Joseph and how he’s growing up!

Credit: Emily Hancock Photography

Credit: Cooper Photography

Credit: Emily Hancock Photography

I love being a mummy!

I wasn’t doing bridal preparation photos, so met Mike and the boys at the stunning church in Stoke Newington. There was great excitment from guests and family alike once they started arriving, everyone was in a very happy and excited mood.

Catriona and her bridesmaids were dropped off slightly away from the church, so they got to walk the few metres through the dappled light and trees opposite – which made for a great shot I think.

Catriona and Mike had decided to walk down the aisle together and this is the moment they first saw each other outside the church – it was a beautiful moment. Just look at Mike biting his lip as he realises how lucky he is to be marrying this beauty!

So happy!

Married!

All guests were invited to light a candle during the ceremony – I loved this idea.

A lovely moment during the signing of the register.

Ice creams were well needed in this heat!

I love the colours of the red bus against the blue skies and green trees and the architecture of the church, shown off by the wonderful light.

All the guests piled onto two buses and got a glass of champagne for the journey!

I got to go on the bus too – such fun!

The reception venue of Shoreditch Town Hall was very grand! (Someone mentioned that Elton John had had his birthday party here! Not surprised it was gorgeous!)

I love this one of Catriona and Mike with the sun coming in behind them through the trees.

The room was stunning and was made even more beautiful by the amazing floristry and details on every table.

See what I mean – what an amazing venue!

Catriona’s dress was vintage and I thought it was perfect for her tiny frame – stunning!

I love the way her dress hangs, the fabric was just so delicate!

This is the moment they came into the room – on the balcony – a great surprise for all of the guests!

Then they were greeted to music and dancing! So much fun!

This is Catriona with Mike’s dad, Emad.

After dinner speeches time!

I love it when the bride gives a speech, Catriona was so confident, even in front of over 200 people!

Mike said some really lovely things about Catriona.

John, the best man (also Mike’s brother) had written a hilarious speech, everyone was in fits of laughter!

A HUGE thank you to all involved in the wedding, especially to Catriona and Mike for making me so welcome! I thoroughly enjoyed myself and wish you a long, happy and healthy marriage.

The night before the workshop we met in a trendy hotel rooftop bar and were treated to free cocktails, but more importantly had a chance to meet the other people on the course, find out where they were from (people had travelled from far and wide!) and of course meet Jasmine and her lovely husband JD (who second shoots with her). Kat from RocknRollBride, a fab wedding blog in the UK, had very kindly organised the whole thing, so we got to meet her too – and her amazing shocking pink hair!

We’d already created a facebook page, so it was really great putting faces to names (and websites!) Everyone was very excited for our big day.

At 9am the next morning, we met at One Marylebone – a gorgeous wedding venue right near Regents Park – so after Jasmine had introduced everyone and we’d all had a chance to stand up and say a little about ourselves, we were treated to a beautiful breakfast of pastries and fruit cups . Then we got to work! There was no topic left uncovered, from branding and pricing to shooting and post-processing. Jasmine really poured out all her knowledge, experience and advice and answered any question shot at her. Lunch was also included and provided by some amazing caterers called The Recipe. Jasmine and Kat had organised a shoot in the afternoon where we got to photograph a couple who’d only got married in February this year (not models), so it was the perfect opportunity to pose real people, just like we all do at our weddings. (Models would have made it far too easy!) Rachel and Dan just happened to be super attractive which always helps! But more importantly they were lovely people, so friendly and willing – which was great because most people find being photographed by one photographer pretty scary, let alone 20 odd!

The day finished with more mouthwatering food, this time at a restaurant just down the road. Jasmine rotated around the tables between courses so we all got to ask any last questions that’d we’d thought about – which was fab. The conversation and laughter went well into the evening and I couldn’t bring myself to leave, as I didn’t want it to end! I got home at 2.15am the next morning, but it was so worth it! I loved every minute of it – from meeting all the other amazing photographers and suppliers, to hearing Jasmine’s and JD’s words of wisdom. Thank you Jasmine for opening up and sharing your wealth of knowledge and insight. Hope you enjoyed your time in England.

Now, it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t share some photos from the day!

And now for some behind the scenes action!

That’s Jasmine in the green.

Jasmine showing us one of her poses!

An ‘in between shots’ lovely moment between Rachel and Dan.

Kat and Elbie the make up lady looking on!

The class.

David doing his stuff – we all got a chance to pose and photograph our “models” for the day at some point, which was lovely if not a bit nervewracking in front of loads of other photographers (and Jasmine!)

And then lastly a photograph that encapsulates just how much fun we all had all day.

I would thoroughly recommend Jasmine’s course to any wedding photographer who’d like to up their game and learn from a very friendly, approachable and talented lady – with a gorgeous husband to boot!

A big thank you to Kat from Rock n Roll Bride for organising the event and the following suppliers too:

Venue: Alicia at One Marylebone http://www.onemarylebone.com/
Flowers: Pollen Nation http://www.pollen-nation.co.uk/
Cakes: Restoration Cake http://www.restorationcake.co.uk/ (mini cakes) and The Art of Cake http://janetmohapibanks.com/ (large ‘rose’ cake)
Furniture (chairs/tables/screen/sofas): Great Hire http://www.greathire.co.uk/
Caterers: The Recipe http://www.the-recipe.co.uk/
Hair: Severin Hubert of The Hepburn Collection http://www.hepburncollection.com/
Make Up: Elbie Van Eeden http://elbiehairandmakeup.wordpress.com/
Behind the Scenes Video: Richard Wakefield of FX Films http://www.fxfilms.co.uk/
Organiser/general dogsbody: Kat Williams of Rock n Roll Bride http://www.rocknrollbride.com/
Models: Rachel & Dan

The ceremony was at the Christchurch Chambers, which was great as it meant we were able to pop up the road to the castle ruins for some couple shots – it’s breathtaking up there! We then went back to the Lamb at Winkton which is a cute little pub, with great food!

It was such a fun day – Laura, Andy and their friends and family made me feel very welcome and even invited me and my husband Rob back in the evening for a few drinks! Thanks guys and wishing you a long and happy marriage!

I was so looking forward to this wedding, as we all got on so well at the pre-wedding shoot (see here) that I just knew it was going to be a blast. Sam and Rossi are so obviously madly in love and so relaxed with it. The venue was new to me too, I’d been up to visit the Elvetham Hotel with Sam and Rossi a few weeks before and it’s just beautiful – a stunning 19th Century mansion with 35 acres of picturesque grounds.

I started the day with Rossi, her mum and her sister all getting ready together in their room at the Elvetham.

Aren’t Rossi’s shoes amazing! She’d been telling me all about them – so I was so excited to finally see them!

Rossi’s room had a balcony – so I was able to go out and spy on the boys from a distance!

And the guests arriving!

Hilary, Sam’s mum makes stunning cakes – this is one of her masterpieces – I loved it as the colours were very similiar to what I chose for my wedding (Hilary also very kindly made our wedding cake too!)

I knew the boys would be more or less ready so I popped downstairs to see them for a bit and get some relaxed shots! I’m sure Rossi won’t mind me saying, Sam looks gorgeous here I think!

Then across the lawn for some more shots in the gardens. Just look at that weather! Not bad for March in England!

I love this one, I think they all look so cool. The matching RayBans were planned – nice touch!

Then I went back upstairs to see how Rossi was getting on – she’d moved across to the bridal suite – which was lovely. Rossi’s sister, Francesca was amazing all morning – so calm and organised – just what all brides need!

Such a perfect dress.

I popped my head out the window to see the boys having a sneaky pint in the sunshine – why not!

I had a few minutes, so popped downstairs again to photograph some more details with the boys. This is why I love it when bride and grooms get ready in the same place – I can get both sides of the story! This is Sam’s Grandfather’s pocket watch (which didn’t actually work, so Sam set it to the wedding date and time of the ceremony!) a lovely touch.
 

Seeing as Rossi’s legs and shoes were going to be under her dress for most of the day I took the opportunity to photograph them one more time! Love her tattoo!

A special moment between Rossi and her mum helping her get her dress on.

I love images like this when so much is going on with bridesmaids, family and friends before the ceremony.

I think Rossi looks stunning here.

Downstairs in the ceremony room, Sam was getting a bit nervous, but I’m glad I managed to get a smile out of him!

There were no less than four bestmen, but Peter was the guys with the rings – and a great job he did too!

I adore this one, it’s so Rossi – a quick thumbs up when they were announced as husband and wife!

And then a little dance too!

Then… the all important kiss!

It was emotional.

We then had a little wonder off for a bit for some couple shots.

Sam’s nephew, Casper was enjoying playing in the grounds. It was nice to see them again as I’d done a family portrait for Sam’s sister, Laura only a few weeks before.

Eric, the toastmaster mentioned there may be some daffodils out at the bottom of the garden. It was well worth the walk – amazing thanks Eric!

Meet Hilary – of cake fame.

The boys (bestmen) were so much fun – this shot just has me cracking up!

Rossi and her mum, Valeria.

Here’s Eric – he was lovely, I do hope I get to work with him again.

Sam and Rossi had the conservatory for their wedding breakfast it looked perfect.

Rossi’s dad, Colin’s speech was really funny.

Gary, Sam’s dad seemed to enjoy it.

And even did some heckling! Typical Gary!

Rossi looking embarrassed!

Then it was the best men’s turn to all say a few words – some very heartfelt speeches here.

Then last but not least Francesca (Rossi’s sister) said a few words and even had props (told you she was organised!!)

I love this moment between Sam and his dad. Very special.

Then into the party – Sam and Rossi kicked things off with a traditional first dance!

So. In. Love.

I was told afterwards that the band were only put together for the wedding! They were AMAZING! They had so much great feedback though that they’re going to do more now (let me know if you’d like details).

Later in the evening Sam got up and showed us his skills!

And said a few words of thanks.

Nathan’s dad booked me for their wedding photography, so I didn’t get to meet the happy couple until the rehearsal. Which as it turned out, was just fine as both Nathan and Jenny are one of the most relaxed couples I’ve ever worked with! Nothing was stressing them out – they were just happy to be getting married – how it should be!

The day started at Testwood Baptist Church in Totton.

Nathan and his brothers.

Malcolm, Nathan’s Dad. (I’d photographed his birthday party a few years ago).

Smart shoes or what!

Jenny’s brother, Wayne and her sister, Amy gave her away.

I thought Jenny looked gorgeous…

I love Jenny’s face in this one! So happy!

 Leigh did a fab job of taking the ceremony.

The cake was scrummy!

Then we all headed onto Forest Lodge Hotel in Lyndhurst – I’d done a wedding here last year – so knew the good places for photos already!

We started off with some couple shots whilst we were waiting for the rest of the guests to arrive.

I love the colours in this one.

A big thank you to everyone at the wedding for making me feel very welcome and especially Nathan and Jenny – glad you had a great time in the snow for your honeymoon!

Carrie x