We have been so lucky this year, we have met and photographed some amazing people, many of whom are artists or involved in the arts in some way. So when we got the call from Noel to discuss his and Antonia’s wedding we really did jump at the chance. Its so nice to be involved with lovely, warm and creative people like this lovely couple. It really does make the day a genuinely unforgettable pleasure, this, we hope, is reflected in our photography.
We arrived at Antonia’s house nice and early to a lovely warm welcome. Antonia was getting ready with her bridesmaids in an upstairs room. We could tell which room it was when we noticed the ‘no boys allowed’ notice on the door. I kind of broke this rule, but only briefly as I soon left for Noel’s house to shoot the boys getting ready. So as usual I left the bridal preparations in the capable hands of Amanda who came up with some great images. It’s great to have two photographers and not just a photographer and an assistant, that way you ensure the whole day is covered from many angles in our usual creative way. Noel and Antonia, run the amazing Box Tale Soup Company. Check them out if you like theatre and creative storytelling.
I met the guys busily getting ready in Noel and Antonia’s quaint cottage. With glass of champagne at hand, Noel’s mum unselfishly volunteered to iron the shirts. What better way to address this pressing issue.
We were soon ready to leave for St. Thomas Church of Canterbury in Sevenoaks. The vicar performing the duties was a family friend which also added to the relaxed and warm atmosphere of the day. Antonia and her father arrived in a grand vintage car. Antonia looked stunning in her vintage inspired close fitting wedding dress, she really did take everyones breath away. It’s always such a poignant moment when the bride walks up the aisle and her husband to be sees her for the first time.
The music and singing during the ceremony was exquisitely beautiful and a privilege to hear. The choir were the world famous ‘The Sixteen” normally conducted (and founded) by Harry Christophers who today had something even more pressing to do, proudly walk his lovely daughter Antonia down the aisle.
After the ceremony, everyone travelled to the reception at The Plough in Leigh, a stunning location built in the 16thc with a tithe barn and featuring gorgeous oak beams, open fires and a minstrels gallery. and speeches Antonia’s parents gave speeches in the bar which was a lovely intimate moment There followed a hog roast and more speeches. This is normally a time for the best man to try and be a stand up comedian. However when the best man actually is a stand up comedian, you know you are in in for a really good laugh. Right from the start the best man Stuart Goldsmith didn’t let anyone down. It was fairly difficult to photograph him as I was struggling holding the camera steady due to laughing so much. He was also assisted in a well received routine involving props by Dan Melrose who was the other best man.
After the meal it was more socialising and dancing in the barn. The band were fab and just perfect for this laid back wedding. Antonia’s sister joined the band to sing for one of the numbers which was a nice moment.
We left around 11pm and the party didn’t look like it was going to stop any time soon. Good luck Noel and Antonia, we believe that good things happen to good people so here’s to a long, loving and successful future together.
These are such incredible pictures! What a brilliant tribute to an amazing day – I’d recommend these photographers to anyone. Sx