Here are some of my favourite wedding photographs from Sam and James’s wedding this January at the ever-lovely Cooling Castle Barn on the Isle of Grain in Kent.

I started the day with the ladies at Orchard B&B, which is a short drive away from Cooling and so is a popular bridal preparation location. As usual, after photographing the details I documented hair and makeup as it happened, in the lovely bright light of the conservatory of the B&B. The girls were all in great spirits, despite a slight worry over the weather – fair to say it was a little bit breezy!

We ran over time somewhat, so I didn’t get a chance to photograph the back of the dress shot as I needed to get over to Cooling to meet up with James and the boys. After photographing the Castle and ceremony Barn, we made our way outside into the wind for the ever-popular shots in front of the Castle, before James made his way inside to greet guests.

After photographing guest arrivals, it was time to await the arrival of the bride with a surprise addition – the Highland Piper Ivan Brooks who piped Sam up the drive and while she made a very quick exit from the car and into the venue – it’s fair to say though that she looked stunning!

I made my way into the ceremony barn to document James (who was in great spirits) and guests as we all waited for the entrance of the wedding party. As Sam made her entrance down the staircase, played in by the fantastic Estilo String Quartet, my assistant Tash captured some beautiful moody backlit window shots which showed Sam’s dress off to perfection.

Sam and James were all smiles during the service, and then after signing the register made the usual Cooling Castle exit into the main reception barn. After a quick drive in their wedding car, we captured some quick portraits in the shelter of the turrets (the wind was really picking up now!) and then inside the barn.

Unfortunately the wind was simply too strong for confetti or any outdoor group shots, so once we’d captured the groups in the ceremony barn it was time for the guests to take their seats in the stunning reception barn – the moody lighting coupled with the ceiling fairly lights make for great photography!

During the meal, the bride, groom and guests were treated to some amazing magic tricks, courtesy of Spencer Wood Magic. I love documenting magicians at work, especially when people have had a drink or two – what seems obvious to you (watches disappearing for instance) completely baffles guests! Spencer did some amazing tricks, including making a wine bottle go through the top table!

During a break in the meal, Sam was very keen to brave the gale-force winds and get some shots outside the Castle, so we all wrapped up warm, set up the shot and then had Sam and James come out. James had to keep a very, very tight grip on the veil as it would have been either vertical or completely gone! I’m glad we did go out though, even if it took a while for the old fingers to warm up!

And then onto the speeches – a funny and touching speech from the Groom, followed by the bestman. If I remember correctly, the hat was something to do with James being a trainspotter (hence the table names).

After some fun in the photobooth, it was time for the bride and groom’s first dance, which then got the party started – again, the fairy lights really help with photography as they make for great slow-synch movement light trails!

Congratulations once again to Sam and James – here are my favourite photos from their wedding day!

If you’re getting married at Cooling Castle Barns and are looking for a wedding photographer, please get in touch to discuss your date.

All photographs copyright David Burke Photography 2016