On Thursday I had the pleasure of photographing Willow & Charlie’s wedding in Whitstable, starting with bridal prep at Willow’s home before heading on to Whitstable Castle and then East Quay for the reception.
My coverage began at the house, where Willow was getting ready with her mum, bridesmaids, flower girls, and Tania, who was taking care of hair. It was a lovely, busy start to the day, with lots going on around the house and plenty of excitement as everyone got ready.
I then made my way over to Whitstable Castle to meet Charlie and the guys. Charlie was there with his two best men, both fathers, and the rest of the groom’s party. There had been heavy rain around midday, so everything had been set up inside. However, by the time I arrived at the castle, the sun was out, the sky was blue, and everyone was lending a hand to move things outside.
Willow arrived in brilliant style in her mum’s classic Morris Minor, along with her bridesmaids and the little ones.
The ceremony took place outside in the Rose Garden at Whitstable Castle, with Willow walking down the aisle with her dad. There were two readings during the ceremony, and then one of my favourite moments came during the signing, when all the guests joined together to sing ‘It Must Be Love’. It gave the ceremony such a joyful, personal feel and set the tone perfectly for the rest of the day.
Afterwards, guests lined the path outside the ceremony area for confetti and congratulations before we worked through the family photos in the castle grounds. We then had just enough time for a few quick portraits of Willow & Charlie around the gardens, before everyone headed down to East Quay.
The reception at East Quay had a completely different feel in the best possible way. Willow & Charlie had described it as a fiesta, inspired by their love of Mexico and its culture, and the whole place felt vibrant, colourful and full of energy. The flowers by Jane at Graham Greener looked amazing, with bright colours running through the day, from the bouquets to the bridesmaids’ dresses.
Guests were welcomed with champagne, oysters and canapés, with live music adding to the atmosphere as everyone settled in by the harbour. It was a brilliant setting for a relaxed reception, with the sea just outside and that unmistakable Whitstable feel.
Speeches were spread through the afternoon and evening, including words from Willow’s dad, the best men, and Charlie. Charlie’s speech deserves a special mention — it was genuinely one of the best groom’s speeches I’ve heard. He clearly has a real way with words and told the story beautifully, with so much humour, honesty and emotion. By the end, much of the room was in tears with him as he battled through the final lines. It was incredibly moving to witness.
After dinner, there was briefly time for a few portraits by the sea, and then Willow & Charlie cut their cake and got the party started with their first dance and a live set from Hallabaloo. Once the sun had set, everyone headed outside for fireworks on the beach — a fantastic way to finish the celebrations.
It was such a brilliant day to be part of — colourful, emotional, relaxed and full of personality from start to finish.
Congratulations Willow & Charlie — thank you for having me there to capture it.
Suppliers:
- Hair: Hair by Tanya
- Florist: Graham Greener
- Venues: Whitstable Castle & Easy Quay Venue
- Band: Hallabaloo
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