You can read all about Abi and Phil’s big day below. In a change for 2019 blogs, I’ll be really narrowing down the image selection on the page to my favourite 30 or so images. I’d love you then to take 3 minutes out of your day to sit back, watch and listen to Abi & Phil’s wedding photography on their unique slideshow video, linked below. I really think music adds something, so it’s worth a listen!
Abi and Phil were married at the lovely St Mary’s Church, Lamberhurst, followed by a marquee reception in the grounds of Abi’s sister and brother in law’s amazing house – which was a truly stunning venue to have access to!
A lot of us Brits are the same when it comes to the weather – moan when it’s too hot and long for cooler days and then can’t wait for summer to come around. On a cold, wintry day in the UK I thought I’d throw back to a beautiful wedding from last summer, which was on one of the hottest days of the year – a real scorcher!
Bridal Prep
I started the day by joining Abi and family at their reception location, where preparations were in full swing outside and in. The marquee was up and the flowers being finished off by Lara and her team from Darling and Wild including an amazing full-length statement piece across the front of the top table – stunning!
Due to England’s progress in the World Cup, an outdoor screen was hastily being erected for the footie fans to keep one eye on during the drinks reception….
Inside, Abi, her mum and sister were in the midst of hair and makeup – lovely to photograph in such a spacious room and with mirrors everywhere, which every wedding photographer loves to have a play with…
Ceremony
Once Abi was into her dress it was time for me to head off to the Church to join Phil, photograph guest arrivals and then await the arrival of the bridal party.
Reception
After the touching wedding ceremony, everyone made their way back to the stunning wedding reception venue to enjoy canapes, provided by the ever-excellent Mint Dining and drinks in the sun – as there was so much space, everyone found their own spots to relax and enjoy themselves – some in the shade, some soaking up the rays and some by the football screen!
Once the groups were done, I took Abi and Phil for some couples portraits as we went exploring the woodlands in the grounds – the shade was a brief respite from the sun!
Wedding breakfast & speeches
After the drinks reception it was time for everyone to head into the rather warm marquee for the wedding breakfast. Once everyone had been seated and service had started – watched over by Michael from Wedding Day Butlers – I took a quick 5 minutes to chill out – literally – in the walk in wine and beer fridge – bliss!
After my quick break it was time for the speeches with some very touching funny moments and a special present for the bride, that her father in law had bought in the hope of a girl all those years ago – handed over to the first honoury daughter.
First Dance, Part & Fireworks
Then it was straight into the cake cut and then first dance. Everyone soon joined Abi & Phil on the dance floor until the heat took over. The dancing took a small break whilst we all enjoyed the rest of the evening sunshine.
I’d kept an eye on the sunset so quickly whipped the Bride and Groom off up the field for a few more quick portraits before it was time for us to set up ready for the finale – the fireworks!
Congratulations to Abi & Phil – what a stunning day!
Abi & Phil’s wedding slideshow on YouTube
All photography copyright David Burke Photography 2019