Borrowing moments from a naturally beautiful wedding day
January 22, 2015
Kirsty & Gary's Upwaltham Barns Autumn Wedding
Gary and Kirsty’s autumnal October wedding took place in the delightful village church of Boxgrove Priory in West Sussex. It was followed by a warm and rustic reception at the outstanding Upwalthaltham Barns, the perfect venue for providing a cosy and glowing atmosphere.
I had already met the couple as they came to my studio for a family portrait shoot when their son Morgan was still a tiny baby. He was such an angel and those huge eyes just captivated me!
I was delighted to hear that Kirsty and Gary were going to be tying the knot and had chosen me to be their wedding photographer. Most of all I couldn’t wait to see little Morgan as a cute Page Boy!
The morning of the wedding began with Gary and the groomsmen at the stylish Goodwood Hotel, set in the heart of the famous Goodwood Estate, West Sussex. I had previously learnt that Gary had a great sense of humour so I knew we were going to have a blast capturing some pre-wedding pictures and I think I may have been subjected to more than I had bargained for with this lot! This next image was definitely the cheekiest one, which actually made it into the wedding album, never to be forgotten!
Bringing back some class, fortunately Kirsty was getting ready with her sister and best friend in a much more civilised manner at the elegant Ship Hotel in Chichester! She looked gorgeous in a fitted fishtail lace gown and her vibrant bouquet of intense autumn tones offered a striking contrast against her delicate dress.
Before heading to the ceremony to see her groom, the lovely bride stole a special moment to be captured with her other pride and joy, Morgan. Having already starred in his own photo shoot, little Morgan was delighted to be in front of the lens again and as you can see was nothing less than professional!
Kirsty’s arrival at Boxgrove Priory was a lovely relaxed affair, as she entered through the old church gates with her Father, the idyllic scene was set. The lush greenery framed her against the traditional and enchanting stone church up ahead, and I could sense the slight nerves mixed with excitement as she glided along the path ready to see her groom.
I really enjoy capturing these kinds of natural moments just as they happen.
The ceremony was warm, friendly and joy-filled and the church inside was just beautiful. The colours coming through the stained glass window showered Kirsty and Gary in soft light as they took their vows, it was simply radiant.
What can be really special about wedding photography is having the opportunity to photograph moments that maybe no-one else has noticed. These pictures can sometimes capture a perspective of someone who has been present at the event, who has maybe been a participant, yet has mainly been looking on, watching and feeling the emotion around them. They have been in their own little world taking it all in, while other’s lives are significantly changing around them. As a photographer I like to look for these moments to borrow them for the bride and groom. To be able to build a wider picture of the day in their mind’s eye, and to include some of what they were unable to observe themselves in the busyness of their own involvement helps the couple to find another layer to add to the precious memories.
After the ceremony the newly married Mrs and Mrs Noble had a little bit of time being photographed together in the tall wild grasses surrounding the church. The textures and colours of the nature around them really worked well with the autumn theme and made for a fitting and romantic backdrop.
Back at the reception Gary and his friends continued with the fun and we went for an unusual group photo shoot! I’m all about capturing personalities and it was great getting the shots of the boys being boys! Again, keeping the pictures natural really worked for this couple.
The craziness was not going to stop there!
Inside Upwaltham Barns the decor provided a seamless continuation of the theme of October, highlighted with bright orange Gerberas, autumnal pumpkins and rich green ivy. The natural textures and materials brought through the hessian fabric chair sashes, brown paper table stationery and terracotta pots dotted throughout the room added an earthy and homely feel, whilst candles in jars gave out a warm glowy ambience.
I loved the personal detail of the ‘washing line’ of memories, a string of photos of the couple, their family and friends, hung with miniature pegs. Kirsty’s thoughtful touches were all over the room and they worked brilliantly in the rustic barn setting.
After some amazing food from Nibbles to Nosh, and some very funny speeches, a fantastic evening celebration kicked off with the cutting of the cake and another great face from Gary!
I will always remember this couple for their sense of fun, happiness and for the laughter they brought everyone that day. It was a real privilege to be able to capture all these moments in the photographs that they can now treasure forever. Congratulations Kirsty and Gary!
Love Kelly x
Kelly Hearn A.B.I.P.P - A.M.P.A