Despite being a kent wedding photographer, I also undertake lots of photographic commissions in the surrounding counties. I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Sima & Richard’s wedding in Surrey in early February.
The day was going to be slightly different as it was in fact 2 days – day 1 was the ceremony at Wokingham Register Office, followed by an intimate Muslim wedding ceremony at Sima and Richard’s new marital home, with around 30 guests in attendance for both. Day 2 was a wedding reception at the fantastic Pennyhill Park near Woking, with around 50 guests.
As the photography was split over 2 days it really helped me build a sense of rapport with the guests who attended both ceremonies, so I felt like just a regular guest on the second day and relaxed guests equal relaxed, excellent photography opportunities!!
Here are some of my favourite images from the first day of their wedding celebrations.
The bride and groom had no problems seeing each other before the ceremony, which led to some tender moments but also lots of fun – I’m sure they wouldn’t mind me saying, Richard is a romantic at heart whereas Sima has a wicked sense of humour (see day 2 for a pre-planned cake smash!)
The small ceremony had a great family feel to it, as generations from two families came together – Sima’s parents met Richard’s mother for the first time in the register office waiting room.
Just time to take a few bridal portraits in a little pool of light I’d found in the stairwell!
And then onto the ceremony.
Luckily as we made our way outside it had warmed up slightly (it was -2 when I arrived that morning) but there was still snow on the ground!
After the guests had congratulated the couple, we all made our way to Sima and Richard’s new house, where the guests waited in the sun with confetti in hand.
The guests had a quick look round the new house, whilst we waited for the Imam so the ceremony could begin.
Once the Imam had arrived from the local mosque, the men and women went into separate rooms to begin the Muslim ceremony.
Once the ceremony was completed, a buffet was served and the guests relaxed to enjoy their afternoon.
As I left that evening (ready to recharge everything – myself included – and download the images) I was really looking forward to the next days events. Please come back in a few days for part 2 – Pennyhill park, costume changes, cake smashes and more customs and ceremonies!
All images copyright David Burke Photography 2012