Sussex wedding photography -

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