Lisa contacted us and said ” we are getting married on Friday the 13th, don’t laugh”  and then went on to describe a wedding ceremony in the picturesque town of Rye and then on to Camber Sands for a beach wedding complete with picnic.  Lisa and Stu just wanted pure reportage shots and that is why they  chose us as we photograph whilst  blending into the background as much as possible. We were really pleased they had chosen us, it sounded fab ( the Friday 13th date appealed to our quirky side too!). When we met up with them prior to their wedding and found out more about their plans we were even more excited.

The Wedding took place in Rye Town Hall, its a really unique place. It was built in 1742, and has been used as a court and just oozes history and charm. Ian,the very friendly manager who opened up the town hall gave us a bit of an impromptu tour, including a trip onto the roof for a unique perspective of Rye. He also a quick look a few rooms full of  mad things like stocks and some dubious metal contraptions including a Gibbet Cage (lets gloss over this -this is a  wedding post).

We met Lisa getting ready in The George at Rye. (Another amazing place that we will definitely be returning to).  Lisa and her bridesmaids had their own courtyard and rooms which were secluded and very chilled. If you have looked at the photos you don’t need us to tell you just how good Lisa looked, she really did look stunning. It was so so sweet seeing the young bridesmaids peering over the balcony saying how beautiful  she looked

Tim moved on to photograph Stu and the guests in the bar,  and as they left for the short walk to the town hall. The ceremony was announced by the fabulously attired town cryer. He also walked in front of Stu and Lisa’s car and escorted them out of town after the ceremony which was a really nice touch.

I usually stand near the groom prior to the bride entering as this is always a great shot and full of emotion. Stu is an ex pro snowboarder and therefore used to pressure situations but I’m sure I saw his legs go a bit when Lisa walked in being escorted  by her eldest son. It’s not  really surprising though is it.

After the ceremony  all the party to made their way to the Gallivant Hotel for a few drinks then it was onto Camber Sands for a Vintage style picnic in gorgeous wicker baskets, and some kite flying. Everyone nestled into the sand dunes which provided a mini amphitheatre for some guitar playing and singing. Beautiful! Meantime there was some fizz to uncork…Cue Spencer… A new sport of Seagull Archery…I think a total of four were glanced with exploding corks.

We managed to sneak Lisa and Stu away for 10 mins to do a few shots with them both. We generally do this as it adds that little something extra to the album.

After a spot of hide and seek with the kids (young and the not so young) it was time for the dancing. we left at around 10 o’clock and the party was in full swing. Thanks for asking us to photograph your day Lisa and Stu, it really was a pleasure, a day that anyone who was there will never forget. Good luck for your future together!

Here is a very small selection of hundreds of photos – it was really hard to decide what to show. Please feel free to comment below and share on social media.

If you are considering a wedding at Rye Town Hall, please feel free to get in touch to discuss your wedding photography.