The scene was set in this charming part of Oxfordshire, from the moment I pulled up at Catherine’s parents home. Today would fall into the category of, a quintessentially English wedding. It ticked all three boxes, the beautiful Georgian (?) manor house, classic vintage car and a marquee wedding reception in the garden. Albeit the latter had a 21st century twist, with a giant wedding teepee, as opposed the more traditional white sided tent! The wedding ceremony would take place at St George’s church in nearby Lower Brailes, then guests would be welcomed back to drinks on the lawn, in the stunning surroundings of Catherine’s childhood home.
I’d met Henry and Catherine for an engagement session earlier in the year, so knew the couple well. It wasn’t a surprise therefore to meet Tilly (the dog) as I stepped out of my car, who featured later at the special request of Catherine for a ‘wedding day photo’. There was also a full compliment of bridesmaids (six in total) as well as a few other familiar faces from local suppliers I often meet when photographing weddings in the Cotswolds. One of my favourite florists Fiona Perry was on hand to create some stunning wedding bouquets, and floral arrangements in the church. We had a brief chat, (discussing the skills necessary to photograph flowers) before she retired back to her home following a rather early 5:30am start. Luckily for me a typical wedding day usually starts late, BUT finishes late….which is much more suited to the night owl that I am!
So for anyone with plans for a quintessentially English wedding, I recommend you take a look through the wonderful photos from Henry & Catherine’s day. As ever it was made possible by many busy hands and plenty of inspiration from the couple themselves. Or at least Catherine (Henry may have taken a more laid back approach).
If you’re asked to sketch a house as a child, this is what you’d draw. If you ask my wife what her dream house would be…..(see above!).
Last minute wedding cake decorating. Between you and me (and Caroline) it may have added a little stress to the day as time became short :-)
Okay, so what’s funny about this photo. Yes, that really is the make-up lady in the background hiding behind a cushion. I’ll crop a little tighter so not to get you in eh?
It wasn’t unexpected to see Henry in the pub prior to the wedding.
Running a little later perhaps?
Spot the bridesmaid not fulfilling her duties! ;-)
Catherine and her ‘little’ brother. A proud moment for him too.
A bear hug big enough to knock you hat clean off!
It’s the moment with Henry and his dad to the left of this photo that also adds to it’s appeal.
How could you not love Henry’s mums enthusiasm. What a brilliant lady.
This feeling of being in amongst the guests gives a true sense of the moment you walk along a line of wedding guests throwing confetti at you.
Henry laughs off his inability to start the vintage car (which apparently wasn’t in fact his fault).
A cheer as the car finally starts…..
…and they’re off.
The fabulous teepee wedding marquee.
A classic wedding photo, by a classic wedding car. Made all the better as it was Catherine’s dads car too :-)
Love this autumnal wedding bouquet. Made by Fiona Perry.
Quite a pretty bunch huh?
I really like this photo. Henry & Catherine’s faces are very dead pan in expression, but it makes it all the more captivating to look at.
The precariously balanced wedding cake (Note to self: do not knock the table whilst photographic the cake).
Catherine’s brother stepped up as honorary Father of the Bride, making a fab speech in difficult circumstances.
This photo made me smile.
A tough moment during the wedding speeches where Catherine touched on the absence of her dad on this special occasion, and the amazing work her mum had done over the years.
If only you were there. It’s a cliche I know, but this best mans speech was hilarious. This photo defines the moment where he talks aloud the thoughts in his head. “I AM FUNNY”. Followed by self pointing.
An open fire is strangely hypnotic.
Four up marsh mallow toasting – nice work.
If you have been searching for a wedding photographer in Oxfordshire or are considering a garden marquee wedding in the Cotswolds, then please contact me for a chat, I’d love to hear from you.