When I first met Emily she told me of her plans to marry Andrew at a church in the Cotswolds with their wedding reception at Chavenage House.  They had picked the venue as it’s historic charm seems like a world away from a standard commercial venue, which they were keen to avoid.

The day started at the couples home in Bath. When I got there Emily had just got back from the hairdressers therefore was already made up and looking fab. Waiting for the bridesmaids we talked as I photographed the detailed shots of the shoes and dress.

I had been looking forward to seeing this dress. Emily had told me in our first meeting that she had commissioned Royal dress maker Stewart Parvin to make it for her. Hearing how the dress would come in three pieces to suit different parts of the day, I just knew it would be amazing and it was!

Leaving for the church I found Andrew outside talking to his guests. Opting for traditional Scottish kilt he looked great.

St Mary the Virgin is set in the most picturesque grounds right next to Beaverton castle. The couple had discovered this stunning location when viewing Chavenage House. They have been a member of the church ever since.

As with all church weddings, it’s always best to check if there are any rules. This church in particular held a strict photo policy where no pictures were allowed during the ceremony. I could only record the bride walking in, the kiss and the signing of the register. The church did allow confetti as the couple used rose petals and bubbles making it environmentally freindly.

At Chavenage House drinks and appetisers were served outside on the lawn. The children were happy to see a bouncy castle. We then went into the beautiful grounds for some family formals and couple portraits.

Speeches were kicked off by Jim, father of the bride. Andrew and his best man Simon followed. We were told how the couple met whilst working together and had initially become friends being delighted to have found a fellow vegetarian to share meal ideas with.

The evening kicked off with a first dance to ‘cheek to cheek’. The guest then joined them on the dance floor for some traditional Scottish dancing. This resulted in lots of laughter from all trying to get the moves correct.

My night ended with cake cutting. Incrediblly Emily had made the cake herself claiming to have never done so before -fantastic work!

 

Please get in touch if you are getting married in the Cotswolds or at Chavenage House, I would like to hear from you!