We were blessed with glorious blue skies on the day of Adam and Katie’s wedding photography at Hampton Manor, a stunning Victorian building that houses the renowned Michelin star ‘Peel’s Restaurant’. Built-in 1855 this enchanting site offers a cosy and sophisticated wedding venue.
I’ve had the privilege of doing wedding photography at Hampton Manor in the past, and it never fails to delight. From the beautiful terrace and walled garden to the stylish dining rooms, it has something for everyone when it comes to the Big Day. I joined Katie, her Mom and Bridesmaids in the Sir Fred suite as they enjoyed a glass of sparkling Prosecco accompanied by a continental breakfast of toasts, jams, fruit and croissants. With the bridal gown hanging on the door frame and shoes gracefully composed, I happily captured the smiles and tears as wedding gifts were exchanged and opened The youngest Bridesmaid looked lovely in her pastel pink dress, a posy of Gypsophila in her hand as she entered the room with a smile. And Katie looked incredibly elegant in her bridal gown, a glass of champagne in one hand and a bottle of Jo Malone perfume in the other.
Later I headed to the local Parish Church in Hampton-in-Arden where the guests were arriving and enjoying the serene calm of the ancient churchyard, rich in the changing colours of spring. The Church itself is over 800 years old, and its stonework and stained-glass windows are truly magnificent when bathed in sunlight. Adam sat cheerfully on the front pew greeting their guests, whilst Katie made her way down the garden path accompanied by her father and an ensemble of bridesmaids and page boy. The men looked smart in their blue navy suits and pink rose buttonholes. I also got a close look at the rings from Heming London.
As the music began to play and the couple joined each other at the altar, I slipped between the pews and captured the joy of all as they sang, listened to sermons and watched as Adam and Katie made their vows and exchanged rings. After the newlyweds had signed the registry books, I took advantage of the sunny day and photographed the couple outside the Church entrance. The darkness of the interior created the perfect contrast to the sunlight that cascaded over the tops of the trees.
Arriving back at the Manor, Adam, Katie and their guests were greeted by champagne and a variety of canapés. With a Michelin star, the food from Peel’s restaurant was guaranteed to impress and delight. The grounds offered a wonderfully tranquil setting for outdoor wedding photography at Hampton Manor and everyone soon gathered together to enjoy the sunshine. Afterwards, I quickly whisked Adam and Katie away for some personal couple portraits.
Upon entering the beautifully decorated courtyard for the reception, the guests took their seats and the speeches commenced. The spacious room offered many angles and opportunities to photograph the grins and laughs before Adam and Katie cut the cake and enjoyed their first dance as newlyweds. Taking photos on the dance floor is often my favourite part of any wedding. With everyone at ease, the music playing and disco lights creating all sorts of wonderful silhouettes and movement, it’s fantastic to see the vivacity a photograph can accomplish.
Earlier on I’d also set up the photo booth in one corner of the room – an opportunity for all to dress up in silly hats and funky glasses, pick an inflatable prop and take some fun photos. I often find that the props slowly make their way onto the dancefloor, and the photo booth is particularly popular with younger guests. To finish off a brilliant day everyone assembled in the Terrace area outside and watched as a fabulous firework display lit up the night skies.
Thank you to Adam and Katie for inviting me to do your wedding photography at Hampton Manor. It was a truly wonderful day for all, and I wish you every happiness and all the best for the future.