There's always one thing that sticks in your mind about a couples big day, more than anything else, when you are the designated wedding photographer. Sometimes it's the venue, other times it can be a speech that sails a little too close to the wind, drawing gasps of shock and nervous laughter in equal measure. In the case of Bethan and Robert's wedding in Staffordshire, and during an April shower or two, I just couldn't shake this one tune from my mind. A catchy, upbeat number, with a jolly singer. In fact, a jolly, brollied singer. Whilst the rain drops fall, the overriding feeling of happiness is unmistakable, and that was exactly the scene for this joyous and happy couple as they enjoyed their first hours of married life together, underneath an umbrella. Now what was the name of that song...
Alas, although I had a touch of Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds in my mind, the singing was reserved for later in the night from their brilliant band, and not in the rain. It does bring me back to the night however, where I caught a stunning image of the newlyweds, in the gardens of the Three Horseshoes. Backdropped by romantic, bright bulbs, a shining light of optimism for their lives together, Robert, ever the gentleman, sheltered his beautiful bride Bethan from the drops of rain around them. It just came out perfectly and really sticks in the forefront of my mind when I think of this particular Staffordshire wedding. I was considerably helped by the weather during the day it must be said, as well as the stunning scenery provided by the gorgeous venue and previously, St. Michael's church in Horton, dating all the way back to the 15th century. After a beautiful day of sun, allowing Bethan and Robert's guests to relax and enjoy the gardens, we had this sprinkling of rain that did nothing to dampen spirits. Such moments generally make a wedding photographers day that much easier. Capturing nature as it is, backdropping the newly married couple, adds a lovely sense of contrast to a wedding album, something completely different as you scan through the pages.
And on the subject of nature, ignoring the skies and what they had to offer, the Peak District has something genuinely special to offer each and every time I visit. On this particular occasion, I was treated to views of the Roaches in all their glory, the trickle of Tittesworth Water and the quaint market town of Leek, all in one day. And the venue of The Three Horseshoes was an inspired choice by the happy couple, taking advantage of the surrounding gardens in the sun, and of course, as mentioned already, the contrasting evening weather. Lovely.
Other memorable mentions for the day must go to the rows and rows of delightful daffodils that seemed to flank us on every shot. The beautiful Beauford that brought Bethan to the church. The sensational saxophonist and co, who brought the party to their feet during the evening reception. Robert's ushers and Bethan's bridal party, who helped SO much throughout the day. And last but not least, Evelyn, the newly married couple's daughter... good as gold throughout!
As a final note, and the most important part, I'd like to say a big thank you and a HUGE congratulations to the wonderful Bethan and Robert! May you have many happy years together. To Bethan and Robert!
Wedding photography by Jon Thorne at The Three Horseshoes Country Inn and Spa, Staffordshire.
