Tag: Award Winning Wedding Photographer

Southdowns Manor Wedding Photographer | Megan & Leigh

I’m a lover of all seasons, but I have to say being able to capture the spring fields of gold and blue for Megan & Leigh’s engagement shoot coupled with the summer blooms for their wedding, I feel I really got the best of sceneries for them both! I love being able to get to know a couple better during this relaxed time together… Here’s a peek at their E-Shoot:

Megan and Leigh chose the gorgeous Southdowns Manor for their wedding. A beautiful venue which provides the perfect spots for everyone to get ready, plus rooms so the guests can really let their hair down without having to worry about the journey home!

It felt like a spa with Megan and her girls in their matching robes and slippers having their hair and makeup done! The bridal suite was free to hold the gorgeous dresses and accesories away from the risk of mascara smudges and rogue directional hairspray! I love being able to capture the details… so much thought has gone into everything, it’s very easy to forget once the day has passed. I think it’s wonderful when people choose a special scent to wear on their wedding day… using that perfume or cologne again at a later date can really evoke the senses bringing those memories back to the surface!

The flowers were beautifully put together with their soft colours and tones, I adored the juxtaposition of their delicacies against the industrial outside fire-escape and roof tiles!

The boys were busy bustling together to all get dressed in another room… although there was calm, there was definitely a touch of chaos too!! Being a big group of boxers, there was also a lot of fists and growls as they cheered each other on! The bridal party and groomsmen also consisted of Megan & Leigh’s children, so it was lovely to see them in their parental roles helping their kids whilst also getting ready themselves!

The bridal suite at Southdowns Manor is decorated in stunning soft blues with a four poster bed taking pride of place. Clear from the clutter of the earlier hair and make-up prep it made for an incredibly peaceful (and photogenic) space for Megan to be helped into her dress.

The venue was all set up for an outdoors ceremony, which was perfect on such a warm and sunny day… there was not a cloud in the sky! The flowers and decor fit the soft white and pink tones of Megan’s colour schemes while the boys offered up a contrast in their blue suits. Leigh showing pride of place in his tweed finish.

You could absolutely feel and see the joy on both Megan and Leigh’s faces as the ceremony started. Thankfully sheltered from the harsh sun under the canopy of Southdowns Manor’s outdoor ceremony space, they just looked a picture of radiance as they said their vows to each other.

With the team on hand with cold beers, bubbly and refreshments the guests were completely looked after. The weather and outdoor space providing the perfect setting for a relaxed celebration once the vows had been exchanged!

Due to it being the height of summer, we had planned the group and newlywed photos in stages. As a Southdowns Manor Wedding Photographer it’s important to recognise the seasons and how the light plays into that… making the most of the light available whilst ensuring the couple don’t feel they’re on a constant photoshoot! The bonus of summer is the days are long so we can schedule in short bursts throughout the day.

I tend to choose shaded areas to keep people of of the direct sun, not only for comfort, but generally it’s far more flattering to have the softer light on us rather than squinting eyes or sunglasses being the order of the day!

First up, the family groups and a quick newlywed session while they’re on the flush of that adrenaline high! With their children playing a major part of their day it was great to incorporate them into the group shots, but also capture what they (and the other guests) were up to while they were patiently waiting for their turn!

It was time for the wedding breakfast and speeches, so making the most of the wonderful walkway at the venue, Megan and Leigh walked through a cloud of confetti before greeting their guests in turn using their stunning flower wall. As always, the food at Southdowns was absolutely delicious and the team serving with a professionalism that surpasses many restaurants.

The speeches were met with tears of joy and laughter (and maybe a little shame courtesy of the cheeky best man who proved himself to be a worthy orator). I love listening to the speeches, sometimes I get so caught up in the emotion of it all I have to remind myself I’m their photographer!! To be honest, I’m usually brimming with some sort of emotion throughout the day while I’m feeling all the feels!

While the room was being turned around and prepared for the evening party, many of the guests used this time to pop to their rooms to refresh. It’s so convenient having this facility on site, us girls love to touch up our hair and make-up!! I’m sure the guys take advantage of the space too checking out the two fully stocked bars available (of course, I’m generalising here, but you get my gist!)

This was the perfect time to take Megan and Leigh away for their newlywed portraits. I knew that Megan and Leigh wanted a combo of a candid document of their day plus some killer shots for their album of the two of them looking their finest, so we got to work! The sun was still high in the sky, but the light and tones around the grounds were just perfect.

Humble brag, I’ve picked up several awards from The Master Photographers Association from this session with Megan and Leigh including Wedding Photographer of the Year in my South Central Region. I love being able to create art for my couples, and their happiness is always my main objective, but I’m very happy to also be recognised professionally for my work.

The evening celebrations continued with guests relaxing in the grounds, soaking in the warm air… although the warmth could have come from the cigar smoking endeavours haha!! The cutting of the cake and first dance followed into the evening with the resident DJ providing the tunes. The guests partied hard and really seemed to take the whole relaxed and party vibe in their stride! It was like they were made for this wedding!!

We took a final stroll around the grounds with Megan and Leigh as the sun lowered, giving them some time to just enjoy each others company. It really is such a versatile and beautiful venue to marry in, it’s hard to not take advantage of all the opportunities! The flower wall proved to be a perfect place to capture some portraits while guests rested from all that heavy dancing!!

As we bid our goodbyes to the happy couple and guests, we embarked on the next stage of our photographic mission…. the uploading of files, editing and album design!

Megan and Leigh chose the Italian handmade Young Book by Graphistudio, a stunning contemporary album designed with the soft tones of their colour scheme in mind. It looked absolutely gorgeous and will stand the test of time as they look at this legacy of memories for years to come.

Thank you so much for choosing me to capture the memories of your day! It was a gorgeous day filled with so much love, laughter and friendship. A true pleasure to witness.

I wish you all the best for your future,

xX Fiona Xx

Southdowns Manor Wedding Photographer | Megan & Leigh

Southdowns Manor Wedding Photographer | Megan & Leigh

Wiston House Wedding Photographer | Velma & Rob

Wiston House Wedding Photographer| Velma & Rob

I have known Rob, the Groom for many years through mutual friends and church, so it was a great joy to shoot the big day for him and his beautiful bride, Velma.

After booking me the first thing we put in the diary was the engagement shoot. This was set for a very wintery day in Arundel finished off with tea and cake whilst we put plans to paper! Here’s one of my favourite shots from that session.

Velma and Rob met at university in 2009 and instantly hit it off with their shared interests. Rob proposed to her on their 6th anniversary of dating on a beach in Zanzibar. There were musicians and a sunset to set the scene……so romantic!

Everyone got ready at Wiston House. The bride and her bridal party naturally assigned the most beautiful room big enough to host her girls and her family. The atmosphere was lively with drum and bass blaring from a speaker somewhere, whilst everyone bustled to get ready! The girls did each others hair and make-up in their matching silk robes, which was a lovely moment to capture.

As Velma got into her stunning mermaid style gown by Paloma Blanca which showed off her figure perfectly, the women present broke into spontaneous songs of blessing as she got into her dress. This was such an emotional moment and I struggled to hold back the tears! After a few shots with Velma’s mum I captured some moments with the Bride, one of which became a winning image… I had entered a number of wedding photographs into The Master Photographers Association 2018 regional print comp… I came both first and second place in two categories: Classic Wedding Photography and Documentary Wedding Photography. This particular image won Silver in the later category.

Whilst the bridal party made their final preparations, I popped down to see the boys before they left for the church. I found them finishing off some details in the Reception room before moving into the grounds to take some portraits. For a Wiston House Wedding Photographer the inspiration for portraiture is plentiful. The Groomsmen looked sharp in their blue suits and plum ties, to match the Bridesmaids, Rob standing out as Groom with a waistcoat. The look completed with Maasai print pocket squares from Kenya. The groomsmen were more than happy to pose for a formal shot or two.

As a coincidence, this image below won the second place silver in the same print competition, this time for the Classic Wedding Photography.

Once the boys had set off I returned to Velma to capture the most beautiful scene of the women in the room surrounding her in a moment of prayer. For Rob and Velma their faith was a very important part of their celebrations, it was an honour to photograph such an intimate tradition.

Before Annie, my second shooter, and I left for the church we captured Velma by Wiston Chapel to compliment the images I took earlier of Rob. All of my couples are provided with an album so I often shoot with a mind of how this will look in their album. As you will see I have earmarked this spot to create a portrait of them together later.

Rob and Velma chose to marry at Opengate Church in Bognor Regis, this is where Rob attended before he moved away. Before the arrival of the Bridal party, Rob spent some time with his Dad. Velma arrived shortly after with her parents, unbeknown to her Rob had organised to sing to her as she walked down the aisle once the bridesmaids had completed their procession. What a brave and touching thing to do.

Opengate is such a light, bright and airy church to shoot in and versatile to decorate so that it is in-keeping with your theme. The service was led by Jamie Fredricks, someone whom Rob admired greatly as he represented their values. Leading the worship band was my late husband and other close friends of the couple. It was an emotional celebration and you could see and feel the love and joy in the room.

Once Rob and Velma had signed the register (during which one of the bridesmaids sung), using the wide space and light room we created a group photo before the final blessing. Rob had one more surprise up his sleeve, with confetti cannons hidden around the room ready to go off as they walked up the aisle as husband and wife. The guests remained for tea and cake whilst we returned to Wiston House for some newlywed portraits.

As a Wiston House Wedding Photographer it is amazing to shoot here. The venue is beautiful and the grounds are vast, giving me the opportunity to create many varied memories of the big day. The happy couple arrived in a Rolls Royce with a personalised number plate and I was ready to capture this moment! The countryside grounds created a perfect backdrop for portraits of Rob and Velma, and not forgetting the chapel door that I mentioned earlier to create these stunning shots.

After taking shots in the grounds we also wanted to capture the grandeur of Wiston House itself so we moved to the main house where we took a few more portraits whilst they waited for their guests to arrive.

As the guests arrived they were greeted by a string quartet playing classical music. It was a lovely Spring day so the wedding party were able to use the stunning grounds for lawn games and drinks. The bridal party put beautiful handmade traditional Maasai jewellery on each other which was such a tribute to her cultural traditions.

Wiston House has an impressive Great hall used for the Wedding Breakfast, once the guests were seated the happy couple arrived to a rapturous applause. The speeches were given before dinner and it was lovely hearing the Groom, Father of the Bride and Best man regale kind and loving stories of each other. Rob asked his friend and mentor Jo to lead Grace before the wedding breakfast was served.

While the room was being set up for the evening, and many of the guests returned to their rooms to freshen up, we made the most of the stunning sunset and went outside to get more shots of Rob, Velma and their bridesmaids. We wanted to make the bridesmaids feel special and like they were part of a Vogue photo shoot! We definitely achieved this, they were all naturals and they all got their glam on!!

Before the evening party got started we embraced the period features of the house and created a couple more portraits before it was time for the first dance.

Rob and Velma booked an East African band for their party, embracing the Kenyan side of the wedding. They had a slow first dance before the band kicked off and the dance floor exploded! The moves on the dance floor were unbelievable, the room was full and the party was in full swing.

Annie and I left shortly after to head home for the next stage of our wedding photography service of culling, editing and designing the album. This was certainly not a chore as it was such a vibrant and colourful day to go back through. We completed their collection with a handmade Italian Album by Graphistudio a perfect way to view your photos back in the highest definition and print quality possible.

Thank you so much Velma and Rob for letting us share your big day with you! Wishing you all the happiness in your future together.

xx Fiona xx

Wiston House Wedding Photographer| Velma and Rob

Incase you missed it! Here is a list of the suppliers used.

Venue: Wiston House

Cakes: Kasserina Cakes

Dress:Paloma Blanca

Flowers: Rococo Florist

Transport: Phantom Hire

Stationary: Hobby Craft

Entertainment: Kmusic/kaleidoscope string quartet and Ugandan Band: jo@sebentege.co.uk

Catering: Wiston House

Farnham Castle Wedding Photographer | Sam & Amanda

I met Sam and Amanda at a wedding fair on a hot, sunny day at Goodwood… when most sensible people are sitting in a pub garden enjoying a nice cold beer! I’m very glad we’re not all sensible people mind you! Sam and Amanda booked me for their lovely Farnham Castle wedding. As with most of my wedding collections, we start with a little “getting to know each other” on a pre-wedding shoot. I met them at a stunning lake near Petersfield which was a regular spot for them both in their early dating days. Here’s a little peek of that!

Amanda is a keen historian with a passion for archaeology working in a brilliant West Sussex museum. It came as no surprise then that she chose a castle venue for their wedding. Farnham Castle is steeped in history, with the keep still standing and open for visitors. The rest of the modernised venue remains in keeping with the stately nature, whilst providing a versatile space for weddings and events. Both Sam and Amanda got ready at the venue, Amanda at the gatehouse while Sam had one of the rooms. Personally, I feel that the morning of preparations is one of my favourite parts to capture… the excitement, anticipation, and the first look of the beautiful dress that until now has been kept hidden and treasured. Amanda had previously found THE dress on a chance visit back to Leeds with her family, but logistically it was too far to make repeated trips for alterations, but with a little communication was able to source the dress from Proposals in Chichester. The Groomsmen also looked very dapper in their suits with cravats to complement the purple and lilac hues of the colour scheme.

Sam and Amanda opted for a civil ceremony in the bright and airy Lantern Hall. The thing I love about being a Farnham Castle Wedding Photographer is that there is great flexibility on where you can marry there, offering both a Civil Ceremony in the Lantern Hall and a Church of England service in the Norman Chapel. I don’t know many other venues that can boast that dual option.

After the ceremony, Sam and Amanda were showered with confetti before settling on the steps for a group portrait and some family photos. The team here at Farnham Castle are well versed in keeping their guests fed and watered, seamlessly moving from drinks and canapes to the Great Hall for the wedding breakfast. We worked with Sam and Amanda to find quiet moments for their portraits that didn’t keep them from their waiting guests too long. The newlyweds have the pleasure of having the Castle Keep to themselves once opening hours have finished, so we made sure to get some portraits befitting a princess in the castle. The wedding breakfast looked amazing…. Amanda presented a person from each table with a butchers apron where they then discovered they were in charge of carving the roast for their table! A great way to break the ice if you don’t know whom you’re seated with! The Speeches made for some great entertainment too with some hilarious photos of Sam, courtesy of the Best Men popping up for the guests to enjoy!

The evening celebrations opened with Sam and Amanda cutting their beautiful cake before heading to the dance floor for the most amazingly choreographed first dance, They wowed the crowd with their ballroom moves. This also enabled me to get the shot that won me The Master Photographers Association | Reportage Photographer of the Year (South Central Region). They had the moves, I was very glad to have captured them. As the evening went well on into the night, John and I said our goodbyes and started the journey back to prepare for the next stage of editing and album design.

Sam and Amanda opted for the Duet by Graphistudio… A double album consisting of the included 30page Young Book and an additional 100 Primo, a larger A3, magazine style album which enables the whole day to be printed, not just the highlights. They also treated their families to a Parent Copy each, a wonderful Christmas present to give in that first year of marriage!

Thank you so much for having us share your beautiful day! We wish you every happiness in your future together.

xX Fiona Xx

Farnham Castle Wedding Photographer | Sam & Amanda

Pangdean Barn Wedding Photographer | Diana & Paul

Diana & I go waaaaaay back, and I mean, way back. We used to walk to school together as teenagers and remained firm friends ever since, bonding over bottles of cider in the park, secretly smoking in the woods and generally getting up to usual teenage girl shenanigans.

Over the years our friendship has continued, our children playing together and of course, when we’re not socialising over a BBQ in their Brighton garden, there are family portraits being created too! When Diana and Paul set the date for their nuptials, as a Pangdean Barn Wedding Photographer I was honoured to shoot it, carrying on their photographic legacy at this beautiful venue.

Diana got ready in her home with her sis-in-law Amy, her two nieces and her daughter, Leela who made up the bridal party. Diana’s parents and Aunt & Uncle were also on hand. It was a lovely relaxed atmosphere with brunch and bubbles being served before Di got into her gorgeous Novia D’art dress from Mode Bridal in Hove.

At Pangdean, the barns were set up beautifully. Fairy lights creating atmosphere whilst the flowers in Diana’s favourite colours adorned every space possible. Paul and his best man making sure they looked their best before the bridal party arrived. Paul’s waistcoat even had a nod to Diana’s favourite roses with it’s yellow rose finish. Diana & Paul’s son, Jack, was also looking the part while they waited for the girls.

As the June weather was superb, Diana and Paul had the pleasure of an outside ceremony. It was gorgeous to be able to capture this outdoor space being used for this. Wth a canape and drinks reception straight after, the guests really made use of the glorious sunshine. Giant garden games were played with while the group photos were being taken. Jack looked great in his car to match his Grandad’s scooter, their daughter Leela was ready for a nap and found the perfect beanbag to crash on, whilst Di’s brother Ian was clearly happy with his wife’s outfit!!

The catering here is superb, and as a Pangdean Barn Wedding Photographer I can attest first hand to its quality. The new Mr & Mrs Barker were welcomed in to a rapturous applause kicking straight off with the speeches. Jack took over the mic right at the end asking for a show of hands for “anyone here like cheese?” It was certainly a moment to remember. The barns had a lovely chill out area, which as you can see was being used well by a group of teenagers, eagerly chatting to each other…. through their phones haha!!

As the daylight hours were long and the air warm, the guests enjoyed a lot of their evening outdoors, chatting, drinking and catching up with each other. We managed to pull Paul away from the Jagerbombs for a quick trip to the cornfields for some final portraits as the sun was lowering over the downs. The cake cutting and first dance followed soon after which was met with some hilarity again… Jack needed to be extracted by his Uncle Ian as he was hiding under Diana’s dress while dancing to Bob Marley for their first dance, “I wanna love ya”. We left soon after where I’m sure there was more drinking and dancing through the night.

Diana and Paul chose to upgrade their wedding collection to a Duet. Two handcrafted Italian wedding albums in a beautiful colour coordinated presentation box by Graphistudio. A perfect way to see your whole day in print. I’m a firm believer that photographs are only photographs once they’re printed. Keeping something which is only accessible via a USB is quite short sighted when we realise how fast technology changes and how easily digital files can be lost or corrupted. The Duet is a great way to preserve your photographic legacy for future generations to look back on and enjoy.

Thank you so much Di & Paul for entrusting me with your most precious of days. I will treasure those memories forever my beautiful friend.

xX Fiona Xx

Pangdean Barn Wedding Photographer | Diana & Paul

Venue: Pangdean Barn

Dress: Novia D’Art from Mode Bridal | Monsoon (Bridesmaids)

Hair: Room 5 Hairdressing

Shoes: Jenny Packham Bridal (hers) | Barker Shoes (his)

Suits: Moss Bros

Flowers: Bettie Rose Flowers

Cake: Bunston Bakes

Two Woods Wedding Photographer | Kerry & Craig

On meeting Kerry & Craig, it was clear that their love of all things nature was going to be the presiding factor of their day. Their engagement shoot was held in the stunning West Sussex Bluebell Woods. Their wedding was planned for Two Woods in Pulborough which is perfect for those loving the outdoor vibes!

Kerry and Craig’s ceremony was held in October, which has to be one of my favourite months to shoot. Autumn is my visual highlight of the year as the colours change into the most firey of tones. Add in the choice of venue, as a regular Two Woods Wedding Photographer I was truly excited for this one! The creative couple that they are, I found out later that they had designed their own stationary and had done much of the decor themselves.

The Bridal Barn is a light and airy space, perfect for your group to get ready in. Kerry had provided lovely gowns for her and her girls, we couldn’t resist making sure these was part of the picture! The bridal party itself was made up of family members and their spouses, who were also their closest friends, making it a really lovely, intimate feel.

It seems Kerry is a very organised bride, she had sourced her wedding dress a few years before planning their wedding from Whyte Weddings in Worthing. How she kept that a secret, and didn’t keep visiting it and wearing it I don’t know! Shelly Bond Bridal was in charge of the hair and make-up for the day, which also included floral hair pieces and crowns designed by Brandon at Flowers4, also in Worthing. The bouquets were sumptuous, perfectly complementing the Autumnal colours that were everywhere.

The girls got ready swiftly in their Asos dresses and opened their gifts. Stunning earrings which again, fitted the natural theme of the day to perfection. Helping Kerry into her dress, the girls primped with final details before getting ready for the ceremony being held in the Redwoods.

The boys were already at the Redwoods greeting their guests and checking the final details. Craig looked incredibly dapper in his tweed suit from Greys Suit Hire, Worthing. His groomsmen in blues which further complemented the natural orange tones of the season.

It was easy for the guests to find their way through the estate to the Redwoods as Kerry and Craig had thoughtfully marked the way with many handwritten signs and arrows!

It was lovely for Lee, my second shooter to have been able to catch the boys in a moment of calm before they took their places to await Kerry and the girls.

I love how Kerry was escorted to the Redwoods from the Bridal Barn in an open jeep, a great way to travel in style for your day!

One of the most gorgeous things I see as a regular Two Woods Wedding Photographer is the epic aisle! I mean WOW! What an entrance as you round the corner and start making your way to your beloved under the canopy of these beautiful Redwoods! I’m not surprised to see many a tear shed and Craig was no exception to a display of emotion as his bride glided towards him. With music provided by Jade Woodhouse, The Sussex Cellist, it was truly a serene moment.

The outdoor ceremonies held at Two Woods are just gorgeous, regardless of the time of year. Sheltered from the harsh sunlight by the natural canopy overhead, with rustic seating. You can really make it your own. With an unplugged wedding like this, you can really see the emotion and love in the guests as they watch their friends take their vows.

As I often do, rather than a disorganised shamble of a group shot, I find myself taking the group shot just after the signing of the register. That way the guests are all still present and visible while they are seated. This not only looks far neater (in my opinion) but takes less than a couple of minutes compared to longer when you try to reconnect everyone after they have dispersed and found the bar!

The guests enjoyed the bar after the ceremony while we completed the requested group shots within the Redwoods. A perfect spot for those precious photos with parents and your bridal party. It was lovely for the wedding guests to enjoy some mingling time with each other in this space while it remained wonderfully warm.

While the guests were ushered to the barn ready for their afternoon tea and speeches, Kerry & Craig held back for some couple portraits. When planning your photographic timeline, we try to choose the time spent with the couple to fit within those moments where there is either down time, a room is being turned around, or just simply… to get the rest of the guests from A-B! Often catering, especially when hot, is on a precise schedule. If we take the newlyweds out of view for a few moments it enables the team to usher the guests to the next part of the day in a timely manner, also allowing the couple a few moments of quiet to just “be” in that moment.

The short walk back to the barns provided the perfect backdrop for portraits that complemented their natural theme of the day.

The barn was set up for afternoon tea by Karen from Henry’s Kitchen, which was kicked off with some hilarious speeches by the best men! The rest of the bridal party also got involved with voicing some words for the happy couple!

I loved the foxy theme used within much of the decor too, from the table displays, to the wedding stationary. Even Craig’s lapel pin was on-point! As the afternoon tea finished, the room was turned around for the evening celebrations. The children played outside, making masks and enjoying the freedom and space the venue allowed.

After a minor mishap with the dress, Craig’s sister Helen thankfully works for a bridal boutique, so there was also a little room for her to apply her skills, ensuring Kerry’s dress was lifted and fastened securely for the evening party! They all looked very relaxed during this impromptu sewing session!

The Bridal Party used the Bridal Barn upstairs to take some photographs. As they were all either siblings or couples, Kerry and Craig had asked if we could create some quick portraits of each couple, which of course was a pleasure to do. We couldn’t help but make sure that the newlyweds got their own Bridal Barn Portrait too!

The evening kicked off with a bang to the First Dance: God Only Knows by The Beach Boys. A favourite of mine and one that holds many special memories for me. The 88’s band were in charge of the party and didn’t fail to get the party tunes rolling out! A brilliant band that sounds incredible at every wedding or event! There was a pizza van later in the evening proving some more delicious food for the guests.

During a quiet moment I managed to also get a closer look at Kerry & Craig’s rings. As Kerry works in the medical profession, she is unable to wear anything with stones, so Timothy Roe jewellers in Chichester had made her a bespoke ring with an entwining leaf pattern so she could wear something more unique in her day to day working life. I think you’d agree it is a perfectly befitting piece of jewellery for her.

I had such joy shooting Kerry & Craig’s wedding. It was a beautiful and happy day filled with my favourite Autumnal colours. No wedding is complete however without an album!

We designed their Graphistudio album to complete the natural feel of their theme. Using a Dark Brown Maple finish for the Original Wedding Album and Design Box, finished with a Burnt Sienna linen lining. I think you’ll agree, a perfect fit for this Two Woods Wedding.

Thank you again for choosing me Mr & Mrs Bendell, may you have a lifetime of happiness!

xX Fiona Xx

Two Woods Wedding Photographer | Kerry & Craig

Russets Country House Wedding Photographer

Russets Country House Wedding Photographer | Cressy & John

You may or may not remember it was about this time last year I took Cressy and John to my favourite secret spot for their engagement shoot. With bluebells galore and gorgeous yellow rapefields, we maxed out on the scenery. Here’s a little look back…

Although West Sussex based, Cressy and John had their summer wedding in the most stunning Surrey venue. Russets Country House. A privately owned venue, which also serves as the family home, sitting with stunning views over the Surrey Downs. The interior is gloriously and artistically decked out to make the most of the light coming through its many windows.

Cressy and her girls got ready in a divine master suite. Her dress, sourced from the Southampton based Ava Louise Bridal Wear was incredible. Delicate lace detailing with a full back reveal, yet classically simple in design. Simply beautiful and fitted Cressy like a glove. The girls were all in charge of each others hair and make-up, which of course means that a selfie or two must be captured to mark the results!

John and his groomsmen were kitted out in stylish Herbie Frogg suits from Havant based Astares Menswear. From their brogues to their handkerchiefs the boys matched the girls in style!

As they guests started to arrive, the warm weather and welcoming venue set a president for the happy and excited vibe that was filling the place. The ceremony was held in a light and airy room which didn’t fail to enhance the impact as Cressy was walked down the aisle by her father towards an awaiting John. As a Russets Country House Wedding Photographer, these moments of anticipation and joy never lose their sparkle. Fun and giggles with the rings and vows, it wasn’t long before Cressy and John exited the room as Mr & Mrs!!

While the guests filtered out to the lawns for drinks and canapes, we quickly went the other way to capture a few moments alone with the newlyweds. This gave them a little breather to process and enjoy their new marital status before heading back to their guests. With a selection of group shots requested, I think one of my favourite photographs is the one where Cressy’s nephew stole the show!! Kids have a great way of breaking the ice at a wedding!

While the guests enjoyed their wedding breakfast by Just Jane catering, we recharged and reloaded ourselves. Returning for the speeches was hilarious. Cressy’s dad had the whole room in stitches, while John and his father both gave really emotionally charged speeches. As the guests filtered out into the warm late-afternoon sun, we took another brief moment to capture Cressy and John for some more portraits. The sunlight dipping down was gorgeous.

As we re-joined the party it seems the guests really did get into the spirit of things with their own prop-laden photo booth! It wasn’t long before the cake was cut, the magician pulled multiple tricks out of the bag and the dancefloor filled. This was a wedding that had something for everyone. Fun, games, love and laughter. It was clear that all those there were very much loved by the happy couple.

Before long the time came for us to head home. It was such a pleasure shooting this wedding and is often the case, we don’t usually want to leave there’s too much fun to be had!

Thankfully the work doesn’t stop there. Once all these images were processed, the next stage was to design the wedding album. Using only the handmade, quality albums from Graphistudio in Italy, the Young Book was created to complement the colours from Cressy & John’s day. I think you’ll agree it looks stunning. A real heirloom for them to carry forward into their future.

I received the most lovely feedback from Cressy & John. Although this job is most definitely a passion, to hear your couples love your work as much as you loved creating it is always the icing on the cake!

“We can’t believe it was a year ago today we first met Fiona and went on our test shoot! Fiona is such a lovely and professional person we felt at ease straight away. We’re rubbish when it comes to having photos together so having the pre wedding shoot made us feel so much more comfortable and reassured when it came to the big day. It was such a laugh and we enjoyed it so much and loved the outcome of the photos. We spoke a lot prior to our wedding day. Fiona always updated us and helped us with decisions. She was just fabulous. When it came to the day Fiona and Lee took charge of all our guests so we got all the photos we had asked for which isn’t an easy job! Fiona and Lee were very good at taking us off little bits at a time so we didn’t feel like we were missing out on anything. They are such lovely people it was like having two extra wedding guests. We were over the moon when we got our wedding photos it was like replaying the whole day again and we honestly wouldn’t change anything and we’re so glad Fiona was recommended to us. We were so pleased with our album too and glad our package included this as well as the online gallery. Such precious memories to have and look back on.
We couldn’t recommend Fiona enough and will definitely be using her again.
Thank you
Cressy & John “

Anyhow, wishing you both all the very best for your future, and I hope to see you again to capture the next stages!

xX Fiona Xx

FionaMillsArt| Russets Country House Wedding Photographer | Cressy & John

Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer | Featured Shoot

As a photographer, I have always been fascinated by telling people’s stories in the images I create. The love, the passion, the emotion. As I child I was surrounded by art and in later life studied with the ambition of becoming an artist. Sandro Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” fascinated me… The story and the composition captivated me. Equally, abstract cubism and surrealism had me transfixed. When I create an image I want the viewer to be drawn into that moment and photography has been the perfect medium to realise my artistic vision.

I have been shooting weddings for the last 11 years and love working with a bride and groom to capture their story. Many couples place their trust in me, allowing moments of artistic license to get ‘the’ shot in their collection. I have been privileged to have my work recognised in the form of awards and accolades (including this one in the collection) and proud that this particular shoot made its way into a published feature by Your Sussex Wedding magazine.

Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa is a stunning venue, one I have frequented over the years. After each visit I have felt compelled to shoot there. The modern gothic architecture of the building, the secret tunnel, the meadow… it all cries out for fine art images to capture the spirit and story of the venue. Thankfully the team at the hotel caught my vision too! Calling on some highly recommended and sought after wedding suppliers in the Sussex area, we were able to create a shoot that captured the look I had in my mind. Without these guys, this would still be but an idea:

I loved this floral headdress by Lulalupin as Jess was getting ready!

We had the use of Baylies to prepare and photograph in, it couldn’t have been more sumptuous with its four poster bed, his & her tub bathroom, spacious seating areas and great views over the courtyard area in one direction and peaceful Sussex landscapes in the other.

While Jess was being primped and made up by Clare and Becky, Joel was getting in to the first of his suits. A top hat and tails, complete with cufflinks, pocket-watch, cane and shoes all from Astares. Jess was wearing an Anna Tumas Gown, provided from Mode bridal which fit her beautifully. The full length lace arms giving a gothic twist to the wedding dress. Caroline from Nordic Twigs had made a smaller headpiece to complement the buttonhole and main bridal bouquet. The colours were amazing and complemented beautifully by the red and white gold, handmade rings from Andrew at Aurum Designer Jewellers

While we were all playing dress up, Sara (To Have & to Hire) and Caroline (Nordic Twigs) were busy dressing the Music Room which was being set up for a banquet and the 13th Century Chapel, ready for a blessing ceremony. Tara from Foxwood Wedding Cakes had dropped off this delicious looking cake, complete with Gold Leaf, just perfect! The golds and red tones throughout the styling working together to deliver opulence in its highest form. I love the gold birdcage being used as a card collector. What a different idea!

As a Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer, the grounds are a dream to shoot in during any season. Fields and flowers, walls and archways and even a beach a very short stroll away, it is an exceptionally versatile venue for your wedding. Sara added to the swing here by styling it with some vines and flowers. Jess & Joel, a real couple, spent much of their time wedding planning here. They have got engaged since this shoot, but that’s another story….

With a quick change for Joel into a Herbie Frogg suit and accessories from Astares we continued to explore the grounds starting with my favorite… The Underground Tunnel, which has a rich and romantic history: It is said that in the 1930’s, Lord & Lady Moyne (who were madly in love) used the tunnel to meet one another for secret trysts despite high society discouraging such passions! I wanted to create an image that befitted the story.

How perfect is this venue for a wedding?! The luxury and variety held within make Bailiffscourt such a sought after venue. The original 13th century chapel, the dramatic bridal suite, the multi-functional music room and the surrounding grounds provide a stunning variety of settings for creating your newlywed portraits. Don’t forget the 5 star restaurant and spa and an array of luxurious rooms for your guests!

How could I forget to add a little mention to the resident Peacocks. You can’t guarantee a shot with them, but this fella, I’m pretty sure, knew there was something interesting going on!

Thank you for reading my “Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer | Featured Shoot” Blog. If you want to know more about the featured suppliers, their links are also listed below.

xX Fiona Xx

Award Winning Photography by FionaMillsArt | Bailiffscourt Wedding Photographer | Featured Shoot

Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer | Julie & Lewis

You may remember Julie & Lewis from our very monochrome Pre-Wedding Shoot on a foggy day at West Witterings? Here’s the link to that day. Thankfully their April wedding last year was on a warm and sunny day… our fingers and noses were very happy for this!!

Julie chose the Chichester Harbour Hotel & Spa as their venue to get ready in, a fantastic choice as not only does it have the most stunning Georgian features with sleek, sympathetic interiors… It is mere meters from their Wedding Venue, The gorgeous Guildhall in Priory Park.

As Julie, her parents and bridesmaids were getting ready, I noticed something hugely profound (for me). Julie’s parents were looking back on a photo album that had been brought along on the day. Now, if we have had a conversation, you will likely know that I am a self confessed “Print Diva”! I love printed images, I really believe we as photographers are doing our future generations a disservice if we are only offering digital files. These precious images get lost on a tiny USB, the files corrupted, or even worse the technology has changed over the years and they no longer fit our computers. ALL of my couples get a wedding album, no matter what. It is something I believe passionate about, future generations looking back through their family history with real printed images. Anyhow, I digress! Here’s some more of their getting ready!

As a Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer I know the area pretty well. Very handy when you’re popping back and forth between two venues! I nipped across to The Guildhall to see how Lewis was getting on with his greeting of the guests. The venue had been set up beautifully in their colours of Cadbury’s purple and blue with a drop of fuschia in the flowers. A vase on display made by Julie and her girls during one of her hen activities and some other hand made decorations finished it off beautifully. I love how close Julie and Lewis are with their families. The tenderness shown to one another is palpable.

Just before Julie left the Chichester Harbour Hotel and Spa to take the short stroll to the Chichester Guildhall for their ceremony we took a few moments to capture some portraits before she presented herself to her waiting Bridesmaids.

If you’ve not been in the Chichester Guildhall you will find it is as impressive inside as it is outside. Built in 1282 it has a rich history but became a wedding venue for the first time over 730 years later in 2015! With vast, tall ceilings and filled with windows, it is a beautiful bright space. Perfect for your wedding ceremony!

I love the moments caught just before a bride begins her journey down the aisle. Nerve wracking for many, Julie just looked full of joy! The emotion as Lewis waited for his bride to walk down the aisle was clear to see. The moments caught between them capturing their love, playfulness and adoration towards each other was so warming. Family played a key part in the ceremony, from bridesmaids to witnesses and readings.

For the family portraits and group photos, as a Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer, using the grounds in Priory Park is a perfect choice! We stayed for a little while here to capture various combinations of the family groups while also being on hand to capture some less formal shots of the guests as they milled around. It’s always funny when the boys get together, mischief seems to follow….It didn’t take long for Lewis to be back by the side of his gorgeous wife mind you 😉

Julie and Lewis had hired Boxgrove Village Hall for their wedding reception, a versatile hall with large grounds set just outside Chichester in the village of Boxgrove. Well placed to also make the most of the other features the hamlet has to offer….Boxgrove Priory and the ruins there being the obvious.

Like with the decor for their ceremony, there were personal and handmade details throughout their reception. Table names were mocked up from Disney films, showing their love for Walt and his crew. The cake with its dinosaur theme made by the talented couple too! The guests enjoyed afternoon tea before heading into the speeches where again, the love and respect they have for each other and their families was clear for all to see and hear. With tears and laughter the speeches were finished by the best man presenting the newlyweds with a card sent over from Disneyland itself, signed by many of their characters!

While the room was being turned around we popped over the road to Boxgrove Priory to capture a few more portraits. The scenery there changes with the seasons, but the ruins remain the same. A great piece of Sussex history to complete the trend throughout the day with historic buildings!

The evening went on with more food, dancing, ice-cream and jolility! My second shooter, Lee and I invite the guests to register their details on the ipad for the online gallery. A great tool to have that enables us to notify the guests with a click of a button when the images are ready (after the newlyweds have seen them first of course!)

While Julie & Lewis went off to enjoy a beach soaked honeymoon, the work continues for us! All the images are gathered, uploaded and backed up before the editing processes begin. My editing happens in 3 stages: Colour correction; Main edit; Final tweaks. Once this is done and the couple see their gallery for the first time, we then work on their photo album. All my wedding albums are handmade in Italy by Graphistudio. A family run company based in the foothills of the Italian Alps.

Julie and Lewis were also driven by the idea that having printed copies of their images was highly important so they opted to upgrade their collection to the Duet Album. A bespoke creation combining 2 albums in a personally designed box. Using their invitation logo and favoured typography to personalise the box and book covers, this really is a collection that not only holds their whole day in print but represents the theme and styling used on the day too. To complete their collection Julie and Lewis also added Parent Copies to give as gifts. A truly wonderful way to store and present their memories of the most beautiful, love filled day.

I look forward to the next chapters in the Branson Household and wish them every happiness!

Fiona xx

FionaMillsArt | Chichester Guildhall Wedding Photographer