The day Maria and Ben got married was an incredibly beautiful one, the sun was shining, there was a lovely warm breeze and as I entered the bridal suite of Grittleton House everyone was happy and chilled.

After saying my hello’s as I hadn’t actually met Maria yet, I started by photographing the details and dress in another room.

I used the floor as a nice neutral area to photograph the details, plus as it was close to the dress I could use parts of the train in the shots. I photographed the flowers on the contemporary column style radiator, after checking it was off as I didn’t want to dry out the flowers, they have to get through the day.

Grittleton is a wonderful place for photographing wedding dresses, there are big mirrors, wardrobes, doors and arches to hang a dress from. On this occasion I chose the beautiful wardrobe as so many relatives were around and I didn’t want to reveal the dress.

I then made my way into the brides suite to capture the hair, makeup and little bits along the way.

I made my way down to the sitting room to meet Ben, his best man and photograph them having a quiet moment before everyone started arriving. I also took the opportunity to photograph them outside the house.

I then returned to Maria and her party to photograph the dressing.

After her bridesmaids, Maria was walked down the aisle by her mum. This was an incredibly beautiful moment, the way her eyes light up when she see’s Ben!

After the ceremony the celebrated in the Italian sunken garden, where I captured some candid shots of them and their guests enjoying.

I photographed the groups on the lawn. I always ask for a list beforehand to ensure I capture the groups that are wanted. In the moment you’ll be so happy you won’t remember what you want, so it’s always worth making a list beforehand.

I took the bridal party (the Bride, Groom, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen) over to the other lawn as the house would an amazing backdrop to the photos.

The Orangery had been set up for food and speeches, it was perfect, lots of light and space. An incredible flower installation had been set up over the top table, bringing the outside in.

Speeches were incredibly heartfelt, lots of laughs, tears and smiles, a room with a lot of love.

After speeches I pinched them for portraits around the grounds, the light was perfect so we just had to go, and thats the beauty of late Spring and Summer, you’ve got the option of waiting until after food to have portraits for that gorgeous warm light.

Hair and Makeup: Faye O’Connell
Dress Brand: Morilee
Dress Shop: Belle of the Ball Bridals
Suits: Charles Tyrwhitt
Cake: Cakes by Mrs F
Florist: Persephone Violet
Bridesmaids Dresses: ASOS
Shoes: Rainbow Club
Headpiece: Twilight Designs