Well, that's another week done and dusted, and I feel like we can safely say Summer is over, and we're firmly into Autumn, with the weather taking a bit of a turn, the temperature dropping, and the nights beginning to pull in. As my dad would say, it's getting late early!
It's been a funny old week though, what with the Queen's passing, and what feels like the whole world grinding to a halt ready to mourn her death and accept a new king. The news has pretty much been unavoidable, so I'll admit, attending the wedding of Donna and Gavin yesterday, was a breath of fresh air.
As Donna and Gavin had booked me for an entire day yesterday, we started out by capturing the bridal prep at their home in Leicester. As with any bridal prep, their home was filled with lots of people, all rushing around trying to get ready and a steady stream of bridesmaids all waiting to have their makeup and hair done, between lots of smiles and laughter.
I'll be the first to admit, that bridal prep isn't for everyone. So when we'd discussed it with Donna earlier in the week, we'd agreed to cover, just half an hour or so, so we could get just a couple of essential shots, without being under their feet too long.
Once we'd finished with the bridal prep, myself and Rachel jumped in the car, ready to head over to St Andrew's church before Gavin's arrival to have a quick chat with the Vicar and to capture their guests slowly beginning to take their seats.
Those of you who have worked with me before will know I'm a stickler for timekeeping. I like to be early for everything and the prospect of being late for whatever reason fills me with all sorts of panic. I like to be prepared for any eventuality and this was exactly the case with Donna and Gavin.
I'm sure Donna won't mind me saying, she was late, (30 mins late to be precise) and you could definitely tell the nerves were ramping up for Gavin after each minute that passed as he kept glancing at his watch and the entrance to see if she'd arrived. It was well worth it when Donna did eventually get there though, and the Vicar launched straight into a lovely service, which was a breeze, due to her allowing me to move about as much as I wanted to get the shots I needed.
As the ceremony drew to a close, we headed out into the church's gardens, as I wanted to get a couple of quick group shots of the newlyweds with their friends and family, along with the all-important confetti shot which is a staple of any wedding!
Donna and Gavin, take the award for the longest confetti shot I've ever done, and there was no shortage of guests armed with fists full of tissue paper ready to shower the happy couple as we buttoned up that selection of photos nice and quickly.
After that, myself and Rachel made our way to the next venue where the room was set, the DJ was ready and the staff of Weston Hall were all waiting with welcome drinks for the newlyweds and their guests.
I always like to give the couples I work with time to catch up with their friends and family before I whisk them off for photos, and yesterday's wedding was no different. They all managed to get some time to chill in the venue's bar before we made our way into the grounds of Weston Hall for some group shots, and the opportunity to capture the couple on their own for some shots in some stunning surroundings.
It always amazes me how quickly weddings fly by, and I mentioned last week that sometimes missing the wedding breakfast entirely and launching straight into the evening reception is a fantastic way to streamline your day, and keep costs down. Donna and Gavin had done just that, so it was no time before we were poised and ready for speeches, cake cutting, and the first dance.
We're always incredibly grateful and fortunate to share any couples wedding day, and we had an amazing time at Donna and Gavin's wedding. It only takes a few minutes in their company to see that they're both a fantastic and well-suited couple who I'm sure will share many years of happiness and love together.
Gavin's eyes light up whenever he sees Donna, and you can really tell that she means the absolute world to him. Along with their guests, both Donna and Gavin were an absolute pleasure to photograph, and I expect they had an incredible time after we left. I certainly predict there are a few sore heads today!!
Peace. Love and Photos.
Jono x
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