Preview: Annie & Andy’s Wedding Photography at Brinsop Court Manor House & Barn

Annie & Andy's wedding on Saturday was rather special for me. I'd previously met them both when Annie was the Maid of Honour at a wedding I'd photographed in 2021 (Jess & Sam). Annie had helped me during the bride & groom portraits, with vitally important tasks such as throwing the veil in the air and holding a beer when needed (the couple's, not mine). I was so pleased when she and Andy got in touch and asked if I would photograph their wedding, and had been looking forward to the day since then.

Their venue, Brinsop Court Manor House in Hereford was a little further away than my normal venues, but wow, what a stunning location. I could easily see why they picked it. It was also special for me, as it was my last wedding of 2023 and what a lovely way to end the season.

They both got ready in different rooms at the venue and had their ceremony in the stunning Banqueting Hall. Everyone then moved downstairs for confetti, drinks, canapes, & photos, before heading over to the Knot Barn for the wedding breakfast which was preceded by the speeches. These were particularly emotional with both the bride and groom having lost family members before the wedding, especially so for the bride whose father passed earlier this year. Annie gave a truly exceptional speech in honour of her father, reciting an incredible poem she had written, delivered with epic strength that brought a tear to many an eye in the room (including me). She then asked everyone to toast her dad with a shot of quality Russian vodka - Nasdrovia!

The 3 best men then delivered their speech, by giving Annie a choice of cards to choose from that each had a subject word written on them. Then, one of them would step forward each time and talk about the groom in reference to the chosen subject. It was very well done, and I think everyone was curious about the stories of the words not chosen.

After a delicious meal, and a short break outside with the wedding party for sparklers, the bride and groom started the evening off with a first dance to 'Chasing Cars' by Snow Patrol. In a move I've never seen before, when the song reached the words "If I lay here.." in the 3rd chorus, the bride and groom lay down on the dance floor. They were then joined on the floor by the bridesmaids and groomsmen as the song played out, with every one of them laughing at their position.

I had a great time at their wedding and felt honoured to be the one to photograph it. They are an amazing couple and I wish them both lots of happiness together. Поздравляем вас! Congratulations to you!