Back in the summer I got the opportunity to shoot some amazing wedding photography as a Greenwoods Hotel wedding photographer, to cover the wedding of Suzanne and Jon in Essex.
Greenwoods Hotel and Spa is an amazing 17th century manor house hotel set in acres of beautifully manicured gardens. The hotel offers loads of photographic opportunity both outside and in – the older part of the hotel, with its wood paneling and amazing staircase has great light and lends itself to more traditional photography, whilst the newer, spa side of the hotel has amazing modern decor and lighting – awesome for bridal portraiture (as you’ll see in the next blog post!).
Unfortunately, the first part of the day was anything but ‘summery’ – it absolutely tipped down. In these sorts of situations, it’s great to have a relaxed bride who will just go with the flow – and Suzanne was that sort of bride – she had a smile on her face the whole day!
I actually think wet wedding photographs can be some of the best – you get some great expressions and it makes a change from a mildly sunny English ‘summer’ day!
I started the day photographing bridal preparations at Suzanne’s parents house; as always I started with the details – including numerous pairs of Jimmy Choo shoes!! The girls were already in hair and makeup – the room was small, but the light was great and the floor to ceiling mirrors made for some great shots (and strange angles to try to not get myself in the mirrors)
After dressing her bridesmaids (a first!), Suzanne got into her stunning gown, and was then presented with a gift from Jon – a fantastic Cartier watch.
Once Suzanne was ready, there was just time for a quick bridal portrait before I headed to the church of St Margaret’s, Downham. The church is set high up on a hill, in an absolutely stunning spot. The view was amazing, even through the deluge. I joined Chris Shotton at the church – Chris was assisting me for the day and had already captured the church settings, groom portraits and some (soggy) guest arrivals….I then waited in my waterproofs for the bridesmaids and brides arrival…
Once Suzanne had arrived, mum quickly braved the elements to also capture her daughter’s arrival. Then onto the ceremony in the lovely church – tricky light conditions with very harsh backlight from the unusually large rear window….
After the ceremony, the rain eased for a while so Suzanne and Jon managed to get out, greet their guests, have some quick portraits and then go through the umbrella-lined confetti lineup!!
Suzanne and Jon then made their way to Greenwoods Spa, for their reception. Come back soon for part 2 of their wedding including ice creams, some lovely bride and groom portraits, speeches and dancing (with surprise confetti cannon!)
If you’re looking for a Greenwoods hotel wedding photographer, please contact me to discuss your requirements.
David Burke specialises in Essex wedding photography, providing photojournalism coupled with stunning bride and groom portraiture throughout the UK. David works throughout Kent, East and West Sussex, Essex and Surrey and is also available to photograph weddings throughout the UK and abroad.
All images copyright David Burke Photography 2012