Preview: Holly & Greg’s Wedding Photography at Nettlestead Place

Holly & Greg enjoyed an absolutely beautiful outside wedding ceremony at Nettlestead Place on Saturday. I start with this as I suspect Holly & Greg are still a little in disbelief that it actually happened. The weather forecast had been so bad in the run up the wedding, that both had resigned themselves to the fact they would largely be inside for their wedding day. They told me how they pictured themselves running from the ceremony to the marquee, unable to do a confetti blessing, and not getting a chance for any photos around the grounds at Nettlestead Place. Well, fate had other plans, and a last minute decision to try having the ceremony outside paid off.

I started my coverage of their day with photography of Holly and her 4 bridesmaids getting ready upstairs. They had SJB helping with hair & make-up, and seamstress Ami Elisa Bridal prepping the dress. Once ready, they headed to the Rose Garden for the ceremony and that's when I first realised my musical affinity with Holly & Greg. Pink Floyd has been my favourite band for about the last 30 years so when I heard their familiar tones play out as Holly and her bridesmaids walked down the aisle, it was my turn to be in disbelief. I don't think I've ever heard Pink Floyd during a ceremony before. That disbelief was turned up to level 11 (Spinal Tap reference) later in the ceremony when they had 'Shine a Light' by The C90s playing. I love this tune and haven't heard it in years, so was blown away when it came on. Without spending too much time discussing music, I will just say that this trend continued throughout the day. They had a playlist on during and after the meal, and every tune is in my liked list on Spotify.

After the ceremony there was a brief interruption to the group photos when the clouds gave in to pressure and rain fell, but aside from that, everyone enjoyed a great time with drinks and canapes outside before the wedding breakfast.

The next part of Holly & Greg's day that really deserves a mention is the speeches. They were all good, but Holly's & Greg's were next level. They were so beautifully written to each other. Greg's was (possibly) the best groom's speech I have ever heard. It was so good, it sounded like it was lifted from a movie. When I asked Greg if his profession was something creative, he laughed and explained how it was the least creative possible. I guess when spoken from the heart, without any hesitation, complete vulnerability, and total truth, you don't need to be creative - you just let the words out.

I was going to leave this here and just say congratulations as this is getting quite long and I doubt many will read it all, but I also have to mention their first dance. Holly changed into a dress more fitting for dancing and they performed a choreographed modern jive to Artangels by Grimes. They looked amazing and everyone loved it.

Congratulations Holly & Greg! I'm so pleased you chose me to photograph your wedding. Shine on you crazy diamonds.