As soon as I walked into the room at Alnwick garden I knew this was going to a beautiful wedding and a joy to photograph. Mike had proposed to Jackie at the Treehouse restaurant which is part of the Garden and they had then seen a wedding going on at the pavilion. It turned out I was the photographer at that wedding (Antonia & Chris 31st July2009).
Every detail was well thought out, coordinated, tasteful and, in some cases, tasty!
Over at Blackmore's, preparations were underway in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
Hermione the flower girl's dress
Downstairs, in the bar, the boys were preparing themselves too. Jackie's brother Mark had made the boys' suits and they looked amazing. Mark himself took responsibility for the final touches.
Jackie's "I do" shoes were a fun touch.
Young Harry looked good in his suit and made Mum very proud.
Hermione didn't look too bad either in her fantastic dress.
An open top bus trip to the garden for the wedding party. Look at the weather! Excellent for September.
Harry and Hermione led the way towards the aisle, at their own pace. So Cute.
A lovely couple and a lovely ceremony.
Jackie, Mike and I went up to the gardens for a few quiet photographs. By this time most of the crowds had dispersed and it was so peaceful.
Harry's wellies came in useful for the water features around the Alnwick Gardens.
A double-act Best Men speech which was enjoyed by all ( possibly except the groom as is traditional)
Harry joined in the backing vocals and a bit of jazzy piano.
After dinner the fountains were lit up for a spectacular show.
The first dance started as a bit of a shuffle but as the music went on the moves became more coordinated and by the end it turned out to be a brilliantly rehearsed routine. A superb effort!
Last thing for me, The Curious Collective took the stage. All the way from London, the band were the tightest, most skilled musicians I've seen in a long time. Their funky, soul sound had the dance floor jammed with dancers grooving to the best music I've ever heard at a wedding.
What an amazing day. A long stint for me but thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. It is such an honour to be allowed to share in a day like this. This is the most photos I've ever posted on my blog from one wedding and with good reason!
Jackie & Mike - Thanks for laying on such a brilliant celebration of your wedding. Best wishes to you both and I'll be in touch soon with the rest of the photos.
