Surprises. Not for everyone, and certainly not overly popular on a wedding day when 'everything must go to plan!' Surprises and engagements? Much more of a ring (no pun intended) to it... but also the time where timing is oh so important. And from memory, and I may not be right, it's usually customary for the person proposing to be the person who mentions it to the proposee (not entirely sure if that is a word either) first. One of those wedding stories for the grandchildren...
And so, before we get to the big day itself, there was the all important proposal. Luke, our groom to be, a keen poker player, was hoping to keep his cards close to his chest (apologies) as he and Claire were walking down by the river (I think there's a song in there somewhere) in York, with a certain question in his mind. The focus of his attention, his future bride to be Claire, was blissfully unaware of all the potential outcomes the day may bring, dependent on a certain answer. So, obviously a little anxious, Luke built himself up to that pivotal point... and then Claire's phone pinged. Not to worry, compose yourself, take a breath, wait for her to see who was messaging her at this grand moment, all the time in the world. "Congratulations? What is that meant to mean?", asked a bewildered Claire. I can only imagine Luke felt a teeny weenie bit of extra, unexpected pressure at this moment, as it appeared that Claire's mum MAY have got a little over excited and wished the newly engaged (but not quite so) couple the very best... despite a question not having been popped just yet. Surprises? Not for every moment...
As with most things, it all turned out alright in the end, with the surprise not ruined just yet, and our beautiful couple getting that moment to themselves a little later, and the only word that mattered, was uttered... 'yes!' And so the date was set for their wonderful wedding day, the 8th August 2023, and they asked me to be the person in charge of getting all those special moments captured on film, as their designated wedding photographer. It's been lovely getting to know them both ever since. Both involved in schooling, with Luke a teacher and Claire a school PA. And whilst Luke enjoys a chance to strike it lucky at the poker table, Claire loves to paint and admire all things 'art' in her spare time. With the date booked, friends, family and myself, all made our way to the stunning Pendrell Hall in Staffordshire, for the celebrations.
Being the wedding photographer chosen for the day, always brings a requirement to try and capture not only the day, the smiles, the tears, the emotion, but also the little things that make the couple who they are. Often it's a gaze between the two, and on many occasions it's the choice of dress or suit, individual flair. Shoes are always a big thing for the bride, and indeed groom, with many a red sole over the past decade, that opportunity for extravagance over perhaps individuality, that just can't be resisted. However, on this occasion, Claire went for something a little different, encapsulating a little bit about herself... and they looked fantastic! Indeed, when I asked Claire for any 'interesting occurrences during the day', the immediate response was 'the stars of the show - the Kurt Geigers!' Check them out for yourself in the gallery.
It's not all that often that I find myself overly emotional, however, I must also add this little quote below, which was oh so lovely to read. I was honoured to be your wedding photographer, and thank you for choosing me...
"... our amazing photographer who made us feel so comfortable and we felt like we had known for years! Thank you for giving us such lovely memories of the day through your photos. We will be forever grateful."
To finish off, I must mention a number of other elements (there were so many) during the day that meant so much to the newlyweds. Sheep for guests? Tick. Marching across the bank to check out proceedings no less. The beautiful ballroom at Pendrell Hall (a must if you are looking for a wedding venue). And last but not least, their most memorable moment, the entrances to Christian Fletchers music... stunning! And following on from that, Christian was a personal favourite of mine too, with his magic act... and a VERY good one at that!
Congratulations to Claire and Luke!
Wedding photography by Jon Thorne at Pendrell Hall, Staffordshire.
