A few years ago, I had the pleasure of photographing Louise and Guy’s wedding at the very lovely Tewin Bury Farm Hotel (Summer Wedding at Tewin Bury Farm). It was a super fun day; we laughed so much and had an absolute blast. So, when Guy’s sister Katherine got in touch and asked if I was available to photograph her own wedding this August all I could say was YES!
There is no bigger compliment than when a friend or relative of a previous wedding couple ask me to photograph their big day too. The fact that they remember spending time with me and that they liked the other couples’ pictures enough to want me to do theirs is genuinely humbling.
Katherine and Evren chose the genuinely stunning Micklefield Hall in South Hertfordshire as the place to make their vows and celebrate their wedding. With elegant formal gardens, a 16th century tithe barn, and a romantic waterside temple, Micklefield Hall provides an enchanting back drop. One that leaves the wedding photographer completely spoilt for choice!
Katherine and her girls got ready in a bridal suite within the venue. The buzz of a wedding morning was in full swing as the girls were having their hair and makeup done. It was a treat to find myself working alongside Niki Lawrence again, our paths having crossed a couple of times this wedding season. Niki is an amazing professional makeup artist who always brings the friendliest and most chilled vibes to a wedding morning.
Bride Katherine looked incredible, absolutely owning a gorgeous classic Hollywood look. Meanwhile, Evren and his groomsmen dressed in another room at the venue and were soon looking the part. Groomsmen in white and grey plaid suits with blush pink ties, and a sharp dark grey 3-piece suite with matching pink bow tie for our groom Evren.
The temple where Katherine and Evren would make their vows sits atop the mirror-like pool of a circular pond. The structure was adorned in beautiful white hanging flowers and lush ivy greenery arranged by florist Andrew Flemming. As outdoor wedding venues go, you’d be hard pressed to find a setting quite as impressive as the temple at Micklefield Hall. Chairs for the guests were set out on either side of the pond in the dappled shade of an ancient oak tree.
Evren waited coolly with his groomsmen as guests took their seats before Katherine descended the stairs on her father’s arm. In step with her dad she made her way down from the gardens and around the circular aisle towards Evren.
A ceremony location like this presents a complex challenge for any wedding photographer. It’s crucial to get all of the right angles at all of the right moments. And, to remain discrete, respectful and unobtrusive to the very special event that is underway. I shoot weddings solo, meaning that I am the only stills photographer present. I do all of the photography by myself. This is a deliberate decision as it ensures that I can blend into your day like an old friend. I can be helpful, and I can be discrete. My couples can enjoy their special moments without feeling like they are part of a media production. It takes experience, care, attention to detail and understanding of specialist equipment to do this well. When I deliver completed wedding galleries couples frequently ask me “how did you manage to be everywhere on our wedding day without us even noticing?” If you’d like to see a full wedding gallery to get a better idea of the coverage that you can expect please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Live saxophone music for the ceremony and following drinks reception was provided by Mr H Productions. They continued to provide entertainment into the evening with a DJ-Sax set that had everyone on the dance floor! A photobooth within a fun tuk-tuk was provided by Mobile Moments.
As the confetti settled reception drinks were poured and delicious canapes were served to guests by the attentive staff of Micklefield Hall. Whilst the sun beat down we organised some family photos on the lawn. I was particularly grateful for a kind bridesmaid who made sure I had suncream! Katherine and Evren then took some time to relax and unwind with their guests before dinner was served. Joined by super cool Dean Sherwood, who was taking cinematic video, we’d sneak Katherine and Evren out again after their main course to take a few quick shots in the beautiful early evening sunshine.
The ancient tithe barn was lit by warm white fairy lights and round iron candle chandeliers dressed with the same beautiful flowers as the wedding temple. Matching florals also adorned the tables with fresh whites, greens, and blush pink continuing Katherine’s elegant colour scheme.
With truly heartfelt speeches completed, the party atmosphere really set in. Guests enjoyed drinks in the grounds of Micklefield Hall as the sun set. And, before long it was time for our bride and groom’s first dance as husband and wife. Surrounded by friends and family they danced together, completely in their own world. When their song ended the dancefloor went crazy as *everyone* joined them to party and dance the night away!
It was a massive privilege to photograph Katherine and Evren’s amazing wedding day. If you are planning a wedding at Micklefield Hall, another venue here in Hertfordshire, or somewhere further afield, and you’d like to have a chat about your wedding photography, please don’t hesitate to get in touch! I’d love to hear what you have planned and talk to you about how we can make epic wedding photos together.
