Alex and Mark both share a love of the sea and surfing, so choosing The Headland Hotel, overlooking Fistral Beach in Newquay, for their wedding was a no-brainer. With one of Cornwall’s most iconic surfing beaches right on their doorstep, it was the perfect setting for their intimate coastal wedding.
When I chatted to them before the big day, Mark mentioned that he was hoping to squeeze in an early morning surf with his mates if the conditions were right. And how lucky did they get? The boys found some lovely, clean little waves right in front of the hotel on the morning of the wedding!
So, I set my alarm nice and early and headed down to capture them coming out of the surf, boards under their arms and smiles on their faces. What a way to start your wedding day!
Meanwhile, Alex, her mum and bridesmaid were enjoying a much more chilled morning getting ready. Alex and Mark had decided to keep things small and intimate, surrounded by their closest friends and family, which set the tone for the whole day. Relaxed, personal and full of love.
Their beautiful outdoor ceremony took place overlooking the beach, with the sea providing the most incredible backdrop. Afterwards, everyone headed inside for a few drinks and canapés before we ventured out to Little Fistral for some family photographs and couple portraits.
The morning had been a little misty, but by the time we headed down to the beach, the sun had come out in all its glory. Cornwall certainly delivered!
There was another lovely surprise, too. Both Alex and her maid of honour are pregnant — what are the chances?! Alex asked me to capture a special photo of her and Mark holding their baby scan, ready to share the exciting news with their friends and family back home. Such a beautiful little moment to be part of.
Alex and Mark are such a gorgeous pair, with a really special bond. Their couple portraits were an absolute joy to photograph because they could simply be themselves. No awkward posing or forced smiles, just the two of them enjoying each other’s company, having fun and doing their thing naturally. Those are always some of my favourite moments to capture.
After our beach session, the celebrations continued with dinner at The Ugly Butterfly. Alex and Mark had prepared personal messages in bottles for their guests and asked me to capture everyone's reactions as they read them. The room was buzzing with emotion, laughter and more than a few happy tears. It was such a thoughtful, personal touch and a beautiful way to bring everyone together.
From an early morning surf to sunshine on the beach, a surprise baby announcement and heartfelt messages over dinner, Alex and Mark’s wedding was a wonderful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations are often the simplest ones.
It was such a privilege to capture this beautiful, intimate day. I feel truly blessed to have been there to document all these little moments and create memories they can look back on for years to come.
Here’s a little selection of highlights from Alex and Mark’s beautiful wedding at The Headland Hotel.
