We have limited the amount of weddings we are shooting this year and had already reached that limit when Rebecca came to us and asked if we were free to shoot her circus themed wedding at the stunning Gorton monastery.  ‘YES YES!’ we said instantly forgetting our own rules. How could we not be part of such a brilliant sounding day. It turns out that Rebecca and mike are also such great people that the whole journey we have shared with them (we hope it’s not over) has been an absolute pleasure.

Rebecca didn’t want any preparation shots so we spent our time photographing the fantastic details at the monastery and all the circus themed props-oh, and mike! We had also themed our photo booth to match the decor and brought along lots of circus props for the guests to get stuck into. Talking of the guests the dress code was bow tie and braces and vintage glamour which was adhered to in fine style even by us.

Gorton Monastery is a truly unique place, unique is an over used word (especially in wedding word), but nonetheless a word that describes the Monastery perfectly. It was left in semi ruins for many years and has only recently been renovated.  It’s not, however, been renovated to within an inch of its life- some of the paint is still peeling off and there are still piles of bricks where the alter has been vandalised making for a place full of character and charm. It’s got the churchy feel of a wedding but with a shabby gothic feel. Unique, yep.

Rebecca entered the main room with her Dad. Her bridesmaids and her son, Sonny. We later had loads of fun chasing sonny around and he certainly made full use of the sweets table later on, it must have been where all his energy came from! Rebecca was dressed in a glamorous dress that was the very definition of vintage style.

The ceremony was held in front of a giant ‘love’ sign and the personality of Rebecca and mike really shone through every detail, there was smiles all round- it was just perfect.

After the ceremony, the guests made the most of the fun fair side show and the great 3 piece band while we took some time to photograph Rebecca and mike in and around the monastery.

The wedding breakfast was set out in the main hall which was great as there is loads of room for us to move around and get some of our trademark reportage images.

After the meal we shot our PhotoBooth which as usual went down a storm. It’s great to be able to print the images out straight away and put them in a book for the bride and groom to take home along with lots of well wishing messages.

The 3 piece band later became a 5 piece and provided the accompaniment to the first dance. We lit this with a few flashes to add drama to the shots and took the opportunity to go go to the gallery at the back of the hall and shoot a long distance dancing shot. Again a pretty unique opportunity.

We wish Rebecca, mike and sonny our huge best wishes for the future and we hope to see you again very soon!