It was lovely to return to Coombe Lodge to photograph the wedding of Stuart and Laura in August 2022. Though my morning started in the Somerset village of Emborough, near the city of Bristol. The first part of the bridal preparations took place in an Airbnb property, whilst the bedrooms were prepared for the rest of the morning at Coombe Lodge. Whilst the bridal party made their transition, I caught up with the groom and his ushers to capture some of the groom prep, which to be honest is mostly about ties and buttonholes. Thanks to the E shaped footprint of this Jacobean country house, there is an open courtyard which is perfect for outdoor marriage ceremonies surrounding on three sides by the distinctive Bath stone used in its construction. The summer season drinks reception was enjoyed in the garden, as guests congratulated the couple and showered them with both affection and confetti. A little of this time was spent performing the formal family photographs the couple had requested and a few portraits within the grounds, before the call for the wedding breakfast was announced. The after dinner speeches were delivered in due course, followed by a some drinking games on the ‘noisy’ table (there is normally one). Then whilst waiting for the evening entertainment to begin, there was time to enjoy the dusk light in the gardens, where I continued to capture some candid photography. This lull in proceedings can often be quite fruitful, with hearts and bellies full, the relaxed atmosphere can produced some of the more interesting images. Today we had a stone in the cup throwing competition and also the dance move ‘the worm’ performed in cocktail dress and heels. As the daylight faded, the dancing began in earnest and my photographic coverage ended with the firework display.
We have only just had the opportunity to sit down and look through all your incredible photographs after being away on Honeymoon until this week.
We are totally lost for words!
Absolutely incredible and we are both in tears! You have captured our dream day from start to finish to total perfection.
Thankyou so very much.
