So on the 23rd October, as I made my way down the motorway to be the wedding photographer for the lovely Laura and Jack, I was faced with one overriding question... is Essex really the only way? Now whilst TOWIE created a certain vision in mind, I wondered if my day of photography would be spent capturing the bright lights, the tantrums, the tiaras and light adjusting for the glowing tans. A bit of sparkle, lots of emotion, a great soundtrack, a gorgeous couple? We had all that, and what a wonderful wedding day it was...
When I say that I was 'schooled' in how to organise a classy wedding, I really mean it. There are some venues that you visit as a wedding photographer and you are pleasantly suprised by what they have to offer. Sometimes the guests and family can be a little different to how you imagined, a little more laid back perhaps, other times a bit more 'enthusiastic'. All weddings are completely different, and when I, the photographer, turn up, you never quite know what to expect. In the case of teachers Laura and Jack's big day, I was firstly blown away by the stunning venue they had chosen, and secondly made to feel completely at ease and part of the big day by a truly lovely couple and all of their friends and family. The whole day was classy, and that is the best way I can describe it. And that is not to suggest it was by any means overly formal. Fun, laughter and emotion flowed throughout the day in good measure. Whether it be guests dancing and celebrating joyously during the reception, the tears of joy shed during some heartfelt speeches, or the mini photoshoot with the page boy and flowergirl, the day was a treat from start to finish. As I say, two teachers gave me an education in how a wonderful wedding day should be.
On the note of the speeches, I must elaborate, as it was most certainly one of the moments during the day that really stood out. In particular, the beautiful bride Laura said a few words that seemed to really touch the hearts of those it was dedicated to, as well as the rest of the wedding party. Laura described her beautiful friendships that she shared with her bridesmaids, that clearly mean so much to her and her friends, ensuring that a tear or two appeared in the corner of a few eyes. As the humble wedding photographer, I must admit it was indeed quite moving to hear such words.
With that in mind, a quick mention must also be made of the terrific two piece band that both Laura and Jack had booked for the reception. Playing just after the ceremony but before the wedding breakfast, the entertainment went down a storm, with bridal party members Rebekah, Anna, Hannah and Emma particularly enjoying the celebrations. The dancefloor can be a bit of a lonely place on some occasions... it's safe to say you were amongst friends should you have ventured forward on this occasion for a toe tap or two... in fact, I think all of the guests started to dance from this point on!
I must also say a thank you to the best men Tom and Zak, as well as the grooms father Graham, who were all a massive help throughout and made my life much easier as I went about my business, camera in hand, photographing the wedding. However, the BIGGEST thanks must surely go to Aiden and Kaitlyn, page boy and flowergirl respectively, who were golden, and also enjoyed a mini photoshoot to boot!
Venue... WOW! Leez Priory is a stunner! If you are looking for a place that takes your breath away, make sure you add this to your list of viewings. What a beautiful place to photograph! A magnificent manor house in Essex, with views, scenery, arcitechture and with wonderful, helpful staff on hand to assist all day... definitely one to stick in the memory!
Wedding photography by Jon Thorne at Leez Priory, Essex.
