In September 2021, I photographed Emma and Jonathan’s wedding at Gileston Manor, a grade II listed Manor house in the Vale of Glamorgan.
Emma and her family and friends got ready in the Applestore. When I arrived three hours before the ceremony, I started by photographing the details, the flowers and dresses. I absolutely loved the shoes as they had a silver sixpence for good luck and the loveliest sentiment underneath.
When I’d finished with the bits and bobs, I photographed candid shots of the prep happening in front of me, I ensured Emma only had the finishing touches before photographing her. When Jonathan and his family arrived, I popped over to photograph them as the timing was perfect.
I wanted to really feature the wedding dress, so decided to hang it off above the stairs. I love how the angles intersect at the dress, drawing the eye to it. Honestly, so much thought goes into the angles and composition before I actually press the shutter.
Emma was dressed by her uncle David. It was an absolute honour to be present in this moment, hear his wonderful stories and capture Emma’s special moments – and what a special moment it was!
Emma had a giant smile on her face walking down the aisle to Jonathan, I love that as most brides are so nervous to look up – not Emma, happy and loving it.
Emma and Jonathan had a gorgeous ceremony, being witnessed by their friends, family and family in Australia via video call. Gileston has such a gorgeous ceremony area, the Summer House – a completely clear roof so doesn’t leave any light or dark spots which make it difficult to expose and allows all the natural light in – perfect for me.
The happy couple.
After walking down the aisle they waited for me to assemble a confetti aisle, always fun and the perfect opportunity for smiles and laughter.
I decided to photograph the groups in front of the building as its hard standing and its iconic.
Lots of smiles, laughter and happy tears, and that was just me! no honestly, it was so lovely to see.
At Gileston theres so many areas you can use for photography, we were spoilt for choice, but I began in the walled gardens, which is honestly one fo the best looked after walled gardens I’ve seen. In the Summer it has some of the most beautiful blooms.
We spent some time down at the lake.
A tunnel of climbing roses, and although it was towards the end of rose season, the repetitive nature of the structure is still visually appealing – add the bride and groom and its just perfect!
As well as all of the natural backdrops we also took advantage of the gorgeous doors, and honestly I was in my element, especially as they are my FAVOURITE colour.
I had a blast photographing theis wonderful wedding, they truly were the most lovely families and the venue has become one of my favourites!
Hair: Blaise Llewelyn | Makeup Artist: Kirsty Rowland MUA | Florist: The Dancing Daffodil | Shoes: Charlotte Mills | Venue: Gileston Manor | Dress: Wed2Be | Suits: Dyfed Menswear | Photography: Kate Richards Photography | Treats: Tricycle Treats | Favours: Calon Lan Cakes | Cake: DeVoli Cakes | Entertainment: JD Entertainment Ltd | Stationery: Sarah Wants | Rings: | Harpist: Lowri Phillips