Gemma & Brent

Gemma & Brent's wedding day was full of vibrance and energy.  The groomsmen were up really early and showed unusual levels of activity first thing on a wedding day.  Maybe this had a little to do with breakfast watching England against France in the rugby world cup!  A great way to start off the day.

Testing lighting conditions, looking straight into a very bright sun, also give opportunities to exploit a different look for some pictures.

Soon everyone was concentrating heavily on the match, with a few opinions about whether the ref was right or not!

There certainly was more urgency with the girls as they arrived from the hairdressers with lots to do.  They got ready at the Farmhouse where the reception was to be held later.  Again I enjoyed the atmospheric lighting conditions.

Gemma's dress had some exquisite detailing in the lacework.

The weather was perfect. I reckon out of all the weddings I have done this year, this was the sunniest and calmest day.  Strange that we had to wait until mid-October for this to happen.  The service was at St. Martin's church with Reverend Tracy Charmley.

Nerves?  No, I am sure Brent was more worried about Australia vs New Zealand the next morning!

Rory got everyone tapping as he sang and played his guitar during the register signing.

We had a very quick stop for a few pictures on our way to the Farmhouse for the reception.

The dining area was beautifully laid out, with a bright, white theme.

I must say that I found the speeches to be some of the most entertaining I have heard at a wedding.

James had a particularly humorous poem he had written, mainly about how the couple had met.

Rory's guitar was made by a very appropriately named manufacturer, so it was natural I photographed the rings on it.

 

After a bit of impromptu dancing, singing and guitar playing, the somewhat acrobatic first dance took place.  This was soon followed by further energetic displays on the dance floor!

What an amazing day this was, a great mix of people from opposite ends of the world who certainly know how to enjoy themselves.

Just a shame about the rugby the following day...

Lucy & Brendan

Lucy & Brendan are a couple with whom I have a fair bit in common, a love of the sea, climbing and photography.  So we were really looking forward to this event.

Lucy and the bridesmaids were a bit late back from the hairdressers,  but there was no panic and everyone got ready in time for the cars to take them to the church.  I love pictures like the one I start this blog with, it tells a story as well as being a fascinating image. 

The dress and accessories were beautiful, in particular the shoes!  Notice the anchor, there will be other images following the nautical theme later.

Meanwhile my wife and assistant Karen was photographing the groomsmen who seemed to be enjoying their hats.

The dress required those nearby to be careful where they stood.

Matthew, the pageboy, led everyone into St. Joseph's Church at the perfect pace.

 

 

We are always on the look out for those little details that can make a strong picture.

A breezy day meant the veil was in constant need of some prompt action!

Is the dress all in yet?

 We had a brief stop at the park for pictures, then onward to the Farmhouse for the reception.

Once again the dining area had been decorated in stunning fashion, a few more anchors to continue the theme.

Speeches drew a few tears and many laughs.

The Boulangerie was responsible for this skilfully made cake, no surprises about the decorations.  An attractive cheese tower was there for anyone who felt hungry later that evening.

No, you don't want to use that toy knife - try this instead!  A sword was offered up by one of the bestmen...

Lucy's time in America was recognised with the USA themed pick 'n mix table, some great details there.

The first dance kicked off a busy last few hours as the dance floor saw some energetic activity.

Being a keen photographer Brendan was interested to see what I could create later that evening, we got some stunning images of which this is one.

The day wound down with a slower dance, an intimate way to complete the celebrations.  Have a great time on honeymoon Brendan and Lucy, you had an amazing day.