Preview: Anna & Harry’s Wedding Photography at Penshurst Place

Wow - what a wedding & what a lovely couple! I had a the pleasure of meeting Anna and Harry before the wedding day at their pre-wedding portrait session and got on with them straight away. I'd been looking forward to their wedding, and once the day arrived, I couldn't wait to get started with the bridal prep photos at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells. Anna was getting ready in one room with her mum and aunty helping out, and her 8 bridesmaids were getting ready in the room next door. I switched between rooms documenting the action, and then once Anna was ready, we first brought her father in for a first look, and then her bridesmaids after. Then it was off to Penshurst to the church.

They'd chosen St. John the Baptist church for their ceremony which is just a short walk from the reception venue, Penshurst Place. It's a church that I have photographed many weddings at, but this time was a little different. For a start, their local church Minister, Rev. Jago Wynne came down from London to conduct the ceremony, who gave a truly beautiful & uplifting sermon on the importance of the love of Jesus in a happy marriage. They had two readings, 4 hymns, 2 prayers, two singers, and more floral decoration than I have ever seen at the church. Literally every surface was covered. It was quite a sight!

After the ceremony and the couple were given the confetti blessing, the guests walked around to Penshurst Place, whilst the newlyweds went for a little drive in the area. As I walked around with the guests, the skies darkened, the wind picked up, the temperature dropped, and then the rain started. What began as a little drizzle swiftly escalated to a heavy downpour. We managed a quick photo under umbrellas with the car and then everyone moved upstairs for drinks and canapes. The wedding cake was moved upstairs & by the time Anna & Harry had cut the cake, the rain had stopped enough for everyone to move back to the courtyard to enjoy their drinks outside.

They had speeches in the courtyard from Anna's father, Harry, Anna's mum, & the best man. I think this was the first time I had seen a couple use the courtyard for speeches. It worked very well and I'd recommend it to other couples.

The incredible floral decoration from the church had been relocated during this time to dress the Barons Hall at Penshurst Place and now that looked even more amazing. The team from Miriam Faith did an excellent job.

I managed to steal the couple for a few portraits in between courses where we could make use of what had become an absolutely stunning evening. Then it was first dance & party time. Their chosen bad was Denovosoul who really brought the energy. With two singers moving amongst the dancefloor, handing the mic to guests at times to join in, the atmosphere was electric.

I feel honoured that Anna & Harry chosen me for their wedding day and can't wait to share more from their beautiful wedding.

Congratulations Anna & Harry!