One of the best things about being a wedding photographer is being allowed to be part of one of the most special days that a couple will share. Because it’s one day in their lives where they get to show each other and their family and friends what they mean to each other. And I get to be there. I’m there sometimes even before they are, soaking up the surroundings and recording little details. I’m there when the make-up artist is doing her thing. I’m there to witness Dad’s first glimpse of his daughter in her dress. When her Mum helps her on with her necklace. When the Groom turns to see her for the first time. And when they emerge from the church I’m there to see their joy. Hear their laughter. I get to be an insider where most have to wait patiently at the church.
When Caroline asked me to be the photographer for her wedding to Keith, it felt even more of an honour. For theirs was a wedding for only them, their children, their parents and siblings. There were just ten of them. And I was there too.
Gravetye Manor is a beautiful, old hotel nestled in the woods, a mile off the nearest ‘A’ road in Sussex, set within gorgeous gardens which would make for stunning bridal photographs. Alas, the rain had other ideas that day, much to my dismay. Not, it would seem, to the dismay of Caroline & Keith. “Never mind” said Caroline, and that was it. There was nothing that would dampen her heart today. Not a chance.
I chose alternative locations inside the hotel for some lovely shots of them alone and with their kids, the proud Lola and cheeky Joseph, and that was just fine. For it was a day for love, for family and for intimacy. That’s all that mattered.
It was a privilege to be there. After sharing a quick drink with them all, I left them to their evening meal and as I drove away from the seclusion of Gravetye I felt honoured to have witnessed (and of course photographed) this special event that happened in the middle of nowhere, quietly and privately.
In these days of celebrity where a typical wedding costs £20k, and caters for 100 guests, DJs, fireworks and all manner of gizmos, how refreshing and simple it was to push the garnish aside and see the real purpose of the day.
And I was there…
