Sophie & Barney’s wedding at Gosfield Hall in Essex was so fun to shoot with so much going on! Add in a stunning couple, lots of emotional moments, great location, golden hour portraits in a wheat field, truly wild dancefloor (my ears have just about recovered) and sparklers I just couldn’t fail to get some amazing shots.
As usual, you can watch the slideshow and/or read on for a bit more information about Sophie & Barney’s big day!
Prep
Having everything in one place meant that whilst I covered bridal prep with Sophie, my good friend Chris Shotton covered groom prep with Barney. Both had quite sizeable ‘squads’ with them and there was a great party atmosphere going on – plenty of shots and tunes with the ladies (including Gran!) in the amazing bridal suite at Gosfield Hall.
While Sophie was getting her makeup done, Chris captured Barney’s arrival, gift opening from his mum and then the boys getting ready and heading out for some portraits.
Meanwhile back with Sophie it was time for her to get into her stunning gown – complete with pockets (top hint brides – pockets in a wedding dress are AWSOME) – with the help of her mum and aunt. After a few further touchups it was then time for the big reveal to the squad and then two very, very emotional moments as first Sophie’s dad then step-dad saw her for the first time.
Ceremony
Once all the preps were finished, we headed out into the beautiful hot summer sunshine to the outdoor ceremony area at Gosfield Hall. Once everyone was seated, it was time for the bridal party to make their entrance – quite a long walk but worth it so we could get shots of everyone. Some lovely touching moments from Barney on seeing his little girl – loads of emotion on display which is always good for us to photograph and so nice to see! Sophie was walked up the aisle by both dads which again was very touching. After the ceremony the couple made their exit, whilst the guests made their way round to the courtyard for confetti.
Reception
Once everyone had made their way into the courtyard, Sophie and Barney came out through a confetti line to begin their reception – hugs and congratulations all round! Their incredible singer then started up to get the party atmosphere going – plenty of dancing in the sun!
After letting the guys enjoy their reception drinks it was time to round everyone up for some groups and head for some well-earned shade! While we waited for people to make their way over, I grabbed some quick portraits of the guys. Once the groups were done, a quick piggyback for Sophie and we headed back to the reception.
Once the room was ready to photograph I headed up to capture the details – the room in Gosfield is incredible, and I love the mirrors both ends!
Soon it was time for everyone to take their seats, and for the happy couple to make their grand entrance.
Evening
After the meal it was time for the speeches and once again they didn’t disappoint with the emotion, but also lots of laughter. Let’s just say the best man was relieved when he finished his speech!!
Once the speeches were done and dusted we headed out for some portraits in the beautiful evening golden hour light in the amazing wheat field next to Gosfield – this was my favourite part of the day! These guys were just absolute naturals together – just so many great moments to photograph.
Then it was back for the first dance and party. Once Sophie and Barney had finished their first dance and Sophie had danced with her dad, she went off to change into an evening party dress while the evening entertainment got underway – Paul Hardcastle Jr who is just all action – Dj’ing, sax playing, singing, rapping and drumming! Barney took a turn on the microphone as well as the party really got into full swing!!
And to finish off the evening, we took a select group of guests out into the evening for a sparkler send off!
Congratulations to Sophie and Barney and thanks for having me along to your incredible wedding!
All photographs copyright David Burke Photography 2023