In August I received an email from Tommy enquiring about my services, they were planning a small wedding for the end of September and was I available!
Heather got ready in a cottage in Batheaston, around ten minutes drive from the venue.
When I arrived I donned my face mask and got to work, I spent quite a few hours wearing my mask but it was for the best to ensure the safety of everyone. I started by photographing the elements, the flowers, jewellery, shoes and dress – all of which were so incredibly gorgeous. The dress was incredible, beautiful layers of blue tulle that danced in the light and the shoes suited the dress perfectly, sparkling colours that picked up the blue in the dress.
The bridal prep is normally quite a build up, but on this day it was so calm and chilled out, no-one was rushing nor was there a need to. So after photographing the big reveal and a few family shots I made my way to the venue.
After navigating the tiny country roads and taking a shortcut over a grade 2 listed toll bridge, I finally arrived at the American Museum, Claverton.
On arrival, I was struck by how beautiful the location was. Over the last couple of years the gardens had been redesigned and replanted, long grasses, winding paths, tall plants, pretty flowers, creating little areas of interest – a play ground for a photographer. I was so excited!
After checking in using the app I met up with Tommy, who I’m not exaggerating had a huge grin on his face the entire day. I took some portraits and stood back taking candids of everything happening.
The wedding had two ceremonies, the legal one in the stables and the one they had dreamed of – in the amphitheatre surrounded by nature and their loved ones.
After the legal bit was complete, Heather and her dad, bridesmaids, flower girls and pageboys disappeared to make their big entrance walking down the steps, through the gorgeous flowers and into the amphitheatre.
It was a gorgeous and heartfelt ceremony in the sunshine.
After the ‘I do’s’ we all made our way down to the terrace next to the Mount Vernon garden to safely mingle and celebrate, and also the perfect picnic spot. I love that Tommy and Heather opted for a picnic – personal, different and perfect for the location.
After the speeches we headed off to do some bridal portraits in the grounds, I love this time as I can really unleash my creativity, instead of candid photography I can pose – albeit verbally at a social distance. Plus its the perfect time for the bride and groom to spend some time together, slow down, look around and take it all in.
They chose to have their first dance in the alley between the stables and coach house, all gorgeously lit up with festoon lights, with the occasional addition of my lighting set up for starbursts and backlighting, to give an additional wow factor.
After the cutting of the cake it was time to spend some time around the fire pits, create s’mores and toast some marshmallows – a definite favourite of mine.
It was such a beautiful personal day, weddings don’t have to be huge they just have to be what you want from them to be, and if thats something intimate with your nearest and dearest then I’m all for it. I love the little touches and alternative ideas a smaller wedding can have. As long as its what you want.
If you’re thinking about planning a small or intimate wedding get in touch I want to hear your plans.
Suppliers
Venue: American Museum & Gardens
Hair: Bath Bridal Hair and Make Up
Dress: Rock The Frock Pre-Loved Essex
Shoes: Miss KG – Kurt Geiger
Photography: Kate Richards Photography
