Rhian and Peter didn’t have the easiest time arranging their wedding. Firstly, as they live in Australia, and it’s always extra difficult when planning a wedding in a different country to the one that you live in (I know this from personal experience). Then on top of that, the ‘C’ word (we won’t name it) thing occurred, weddings (along with some international travel) was banned, and their wedding had to be postponed one year, and then another. I think even until a few months ago, there was some doubt over whether the day would happen, but it did, and it was amazing.
They both got ready beforehand (in separate rooms) at The Royal Wells Hotel in Tunbridge Wells. As they were both there, I could pop between rooms getting prep shots of each of them before they headed to Penshurst Place for the ceremony and celebration. Rhian travelled in a striking Rolls Royce in colours not often seen at weddings, but I honestly think this is one of, if not the best looking wedding car I’ve seen. The shot below is of them both in front of this incredible car, with the impressive front of Penshurst Place behind them.
Understandably, with the various postponements, they give in to desire and actually get married before this date, so the ceremony today was a blessing. This meant that it wasn’t restricted by the normal location requirements of UK weddings, and could happen in the Nut Garden at Penshurst Place. Now this is a beautiful location, but the added benefit is that everyone at the wedding could enjoy a nice walk through the extensive gardens both getting to and leading away from the ceremony. I’ve loved the gardens here since the first wedding I photographed here, and yet still, was blown away by how they looked this weekend. Rhian & Peter had timed their wedding perfectly as the peonies were out in full glory.
The happy couple and their guests then enjoyed drinks and canapes in the courtyard and their wedding breakfast in the Baron’s Hall. Their first dance had a novel twist to it – as a surprise for their guests, a saxophonist came down the stairs midway through their song and played in addition to the DJ supplied music. She then added some flair to various tunes spurring the dancing on nicely.
I had a great time photographing Rhian & Peter’s wedding and loved being back at Penshurst Place.
Suppliers:
– Venue – Penshurst Place
– Florist – Made by Amelia Florence
– Make up & hair – NW Make-up
– Caterers – Seasoned Events
– DJ – Odyssey
– Dress – Bride by Aster, Modeca dress
– Groom suit – P Johnson
– Groomsmen suits – Studio Italia
– Decor / styling – Chair Cover Chic
– Transport – Distinctly Vintage
– Videographer – Story House Collective
– Saxophonist – Mel Dawkins via Warble Entertainment
– String quartet – Penshurst String Quartet
