Simone and Dan, Smeetham Hall Barn, Essex

This was without doubt one of the most entertaining, emotional and enjoyable weddings I have ever had the pleasure to shoot.  From the moment entered the pre-wedding chaos in ‘The Lodge’ at Hedingham Castle for the wedding preparation, I was made to feel welcome and part of the family.  I was met by the bride, her entourage of family and friends (the bride boasted a very large family) and I immediately knew it was going to be a unique and memorable wedding.  The house was full of lively chatter, banter and laughter. 

The wedding ceremony took place in the Essex rural countryside at the splendid Smeetham Hall Barns.  The inside of the barn was adorned with sparkling lights and a romantic archway, which looked quite magical. This lovely couple had made the wedding very personal to themselves, including handmade individual boxes with gifts and a personal message to each of the bridesmaids.  The groom had also made the light up ‘LOVE’ sign himself.

Some of the highlights for me were the speeches which were announced by the witty brother of the bride with his unique style of introduction, the beautiful personal poem that had been written and read out by the couples beautiful daughter and seeing the newlyweds on the bouncy Castle after the meal!  I think Rum punch was involved quite heavily too…..

As you can see from the photos, the bride looked undeniably stunning and the couple were obviously very happy!