Highcliffe Castle Wedding
Well I have wanted to share this wedding with you all for ages, and I have just got round to finishing the blog. I’ve decided to show you the monochrome version (although the colours from the day were amazing, and we had such beautiful blue skies) as I thought it would be different for everyone to see the day from a Black & White perspective.
Ian & Vicky were married at Highcliffe Castle which is a truly wonderful setting. With coastal views and on the edge of the New Forest it has lots to offer. I began with Vicky and her Bridesmaids in Lymington at her parents’ house. Ian had written a note to Vicky along with a gift; I discretely managed to photograph Vicky reading her letter in a bedroom to which she had snuck away to open in private, but it was the perfect start to capturing their day. The bridesmaids were in the other room having hair and make-up done. The excitement began to bubble once Vicky had finished with her make-up. All the girls disappeared into various parts of the house to get into their dresses. Vicky’s Mum helped her into her dress and when she was ready Dad appeared with a beaming smile. The bridesmaids couldn’t wait any longer, so in they rushed too – with equal smiles but a lot more noise!
I arrived at Highcliffe Castle 45 minutes before the wedding ceremony, Ian and his Brother Best Man were greeting the guests, family & friends. I had a bit of time with the Groomsmen before Vicky arrived at the front. As Vicky walked down the aisle, Ian turned around to see her – this is where the emotions properly kicked in … for Ian. To be fair, there were lots of tears from the front few rows but I was probably the only one to see everyone wiping their eyes, however Ian gave it everything to hold it together, and I just love the shot of him with his clenched fist once he had got through all the vows. Whilst signing the register, Vicky said “If you think that was bad you just wait for the speeches”…………….
After the congratulations, I took Ian and Vicky off for a few pre-arranged group shots, and the ones with the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen were great fun. Then off to The Lord Bute for their wedding reception.
Chris from the Lord Bute was there to greet them; canapés, drinks and laughter for a good hour before the wedding speeches and meal. Another teary affair with a few high pitched noises from Ian (sorry buddy!) and phew he made it. I must say he wore his emotions on his sleeve and I take my hat off to him as it was just so heartfelt. His Brother / Best Man caught the eye problem and also got a touch emotional. After an astonishingly great wedding breakfast we snuck out for some time out and photographs on the beach.
The evening was just beautiful and we could have stayed there for ages – but back to the wedding and the evening guest were arriving. I stayed with the party until the first dance – What a day! Just loved it, thank you both for inviting me to be a part of it.
So here are the photographs which I hope you all enjoy and for those who were fortunate enough to be there and share in Ian & Vicky’s day, I hope this brings back many happy memories ………
