Preview: Emma & Stefan’s Wedding Photography at Notley Abbey

On Saturday I was up in Buckinghamshire for the wedding of Emma and Stefan. This was an extra special wedding for me as their venue for everything except the ceremony was Notley Abbey. 15 years ago, I photographed my very first wedding at this venue, and this was the first time I had been back since. I had been looking forward to this day arriving.

My actual coverage of the day started at a nearby AirBnB where Emma and her bridal party had stayed the night before, and were getting ready. We then all relocated to Notley Abbey for the final stages of pre-ceremony prep, as well as giving me and videographer, James Fox, the chance to get some photos / footage of Stefan and his best-man (his brother Dominic) before the ceremony.

Emma travelled to the ceremony at St. Peter & St. Paul's church in Dinton by way of incredible horse(s) n cart from 'The Ostler Hoch.' What a way to travel! The church is Grade 1 listed, dates to the 12th century and is very striking. The ceremony was officiated by the vicar, Rev. Dr. Canon Phil Groves, and there were readings from Emma's auntie and Stefan's father.

After the ceremony, the guests gave the newlyweds a confetti blessing before everyone headed over to Notley Abbey with Emma and Stefan returning via horse 'n' cart. They had drinks and canapes on the front lawn, a few photos, and then it was time for the wedding breakfast. They had speeches from Emma's father (Simon), Stefan, and the best man (Dominic). It was lovely to see how close Stefan and his brother are, and very sweet how both Stefan and Dominic included the same anecdote of how Dominic was so happy to be having a brother that on the day of Stefan's birth, Dominic was loudly chanting around school "I'm having a brother, I'm having a brother."

Emma and Stefan started the evening drinks reception off with pouring a champagne tower and then myself and James (videographer) took them for a few pictures / video around the venue before the sun went down.

Emma and Stefan performed a beautiful first dance to get the party started, before a Ceilidh band took over, the barn filled up, and madness took over as everyone got involved in the dancing.

I had a great time photographing Emma and Stefan's wedding. It was an absolutely beautiful day to be a part of, and an incredible return to the past for me.

Congratulations Emma & Stefan!