Devon Wedding Photography for a beautiful Dartmoor Marquee Wedding // Alice & Tim
Alice and Tim’s epic marquee wedding in Dartmoor Devon. An eventful day including a private piece of Dartmoor, a special wedding car, an amazing first dance performance, sparklers and a firework over Dartmoor hills to finish it all off.
I have an absolute gem to share with you today! Alice and Tim’s marquee wedding in Dartmoor, Devon was probably the most exhausting and intense day I have photographed this year so far, but so worth it! Al, my second shooter, and I had fun capturing this eventful day. I still don’t know how Alice and Tim managed to organise such an epic day, being both doctors with a busy lifestyle to say the least.
I love trips to Dartmoor with my dogs and quite often venture there for some hiking or mountain biking when have a rare weekend off. So when Alice and Tim asked me to photograph their wedding at Alice’s family private house there, I was really excited! Little did I know though, when I arrived at the House with it’s beautiful grounds, it blew my mind. It is a picturesque piece of Dartmoor on private land including an ancient wood, a stone circle and distant views to some of the better known parts of Dartmoor! What a place, so many photo opportunities. I was busting with ideas! The day was action packed though and we didn’t have too much time for couple portraits, so we had to work fast and just explore a few of the many options.
Al was covering the guys getting ready at a different location whilst I met the bridal party at the house. A relaxed morning with the ladies including some early tears…when Alice unwrapped her present from Tim, a pair of beautiful earrings from her favourite jewellers and the first look moment with dad I always love to capture if time allows…so much emotion!
The ceremony was at a church about 10 minute drive away. The chosen transport was Tim’s dad vintage Land Rover, for everyone who knows me, I have a weak spot for vintage style wedding cars out of the ordinary. So yes, I got a bit excited when they arrived in the rustic Land Rover!
Back at the house we only had a short session for couple portraits before the wedding breakfast was served in the marquee, so we were hoping to get another session in for sunset. We got lucky, the early evening shots turned out to be my favourites as the top field including the stone circle was flooded in golden hour light.
‘Joey The Lips’ were amazing and soon filled the dance floor after Alice and Tim’s impressive first dance performance. And after Alice’s mum surprise song we headed out for a sparkler exit and fireworks, the highlight of the evening and a great surprise for the guests. The party was long not finished, it only just started… the whole marquee was rocking, but for Al and I it was time to head back after nearly 14 hours of coverage and aching feet.
Alice and Tim, it was an honour to capture your magical day. It took me hours to select just a few of my favourite moments, I could have posted so much more, but I already exceeded the average number of photos for my blog posts, so here you go, enjoy…
Venue: private // Date: 2.07.022 // Makeup & Hair: Grace, Lips and Locks // Dress: Anna Bridal, Design Justin Alexander // Wedding Shoes: Steve Madden // Groom’s Suit: Moss Bros // Flowers: Fare of the Field // Cake: Claires Kitchen (pavlova), homemade cakes by friends // Band: Joey The Lips // Wedding Coordinator: Elisabeth Shell Events // special thanks to Second Shooter: Alastair Scarlett
Devon Wedding Photographer Tunnels Beaches // Sarah & Tristan
Sarah and Tristan’s storm Arwen wedding at the stunning Tunnels Beaches in North Devon was a pleasure to photograph!
I couldn’t wait for this one, I wanted to tick Tunnels Beaches wedding venue up in North Devon off my bucket list since ages. I have seen stunning photos from this place and was so excited when Sarah and Tristan booked me for their special day there. The beach with it’s puddles and dramatic rock formations looks like something out of another world. And the architecture of the actual venue nestled into the cliff is just stunning.
We didn’t plan for storm Arwen with 60 mph plus north westerly winds and heavy downpours though! However I heard that Sarah and Tristan wanted their special day to be stormy to give it that little bit extra drama. They met sailing and love the sea, the wilder the better!
Sarah’s dad was a bit concerned how he would get his daughter safely through the tunnel without the wind messing up her outfit. The direction somehow made the wind funnel through the tunnel and it was a struggle to walk through it! He had a plan: He looked for the biggest umbrella in the house to hold it as a shelter in front of them. I was slightly concerned the thing would be strong enough and not collapse. But he got her to the other side safely and hair, dress and makeup were still in place.
The ceremony was held on the first floor overlooking the sea. It was somehow cosy in there with the warm lights and the wild sea smashing against the shore just beneath you and the just 15 guests were just enough to fill the room nicely.
Sarah’s dad is a professional photographer too, oh yes, pressure on, ha ha! No honestly a bit if pressure makes me work even better and he really understood what’s needed to assist me to get the right shots. Photography was one of the top most important things for their very special day. I totally agree, after all the day goes by so fast and the photos are the one thing you have left as a memory to treasure for years to come. After the ceremony we had to wait for a dry spell in between the heavy showers to venture to the beach for the couple portraits. Thankfully Sarah and Tristan were so keen to get some stunning shots that they were super flexible with their schedule. And we were lucky! We had ca 30 minutes without rain, the tide was just right and even the sun came out for a brief glimpse helping me to produce some dramatic shots. I’m super pleased with the results and I hope you are too.
Here is a small preview for you, Sarah and Tristan! As I promised just before Christmas….I hope you like what you see.
Venue: Tunnels Beaches // Hair & Makeup: Brighteye Beauty Devon // Mother of the Bride’s and Flower Girl Hair: Vera K Bridal Hair // Flowers: Sweet Williams Flowers Ilfracombe // Dress: Bleu Bridal Gowns // Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss //Music: Sam Dowden
Postpone don't cancel!
Postpone don’t cancel! It’s hard for some of you who are planning to get married the next couple of months. I’m here to help you make it happen even if we have to postpone your wedding to a new date later on this year…
I’m really sorry some of my clients having to deal with this crisis at the same time as planning their wedding. I know you never expected to be having to do this, and it's uncertain times for us all but together we can get through it! I'm here to help and make it as stress free as possible. If it turns out you have to postpone then I've got a procedure in place to make it as stress free for you as possible...
IF YOU'VE NOT YET SET A NEW DATE - Work with me to make sure I can be there on the new date, I still really really would love to be your photographer with all my heart and soul. This whole episode has just made me even more passionate about capturing the love and happiness in the world, and so grateful to be able to share these occasions with people like you. We are a small network of wedding industry businesses down here in Cornwall and we will do everything in our power to make your wedding happen at a different date later on this year or if not possible next year. September and October can often be nicer down here in Cornwall than May and June, I’m not kidding! And on top of it I offer you a 20% discount on full day (full price) packages if you decide to postpone your wedding to a date in between October 2020 and March 2021.
ONCE YOU'VE SET THE NEW DATE - I will ask you to sign a new contract for the new date at the same price you're paying now - Your initial payment will carry across to the new date with no penalties, so you won't lose out financially at all - I will ask you if possible to pay 50% of your balance payment at the time of rearrangement - times are so hard and uncertain now for tiny businesses like mine and this cash flow will help me get through this blip - Your remaining balance will be due a month before the new date If you've got any questions as things develop, or you just want to have a chat about anything - text, email or call me. We can jump on a Skype or anything any time you want a chat. I'm here to help as much as I can.
Take care of your physical and mental health during this time and I can't wait to see you soon.
Together we are strong and we will make the celebration of your dreams happen!
Sending you lots of Love!
Alexa xxx
Best of 2018 Weddings!
A collection of my favourite shots in 2018. What a year! I had the opportunity to visit some new stunning wedding venues and work with the best wedding suppliers the Southwest has to offer.. I love my job! Roll on 2019…
A collection of my favourite shots from 2018. Thanks to all the lovely couples who let me cover their special days. I had the opportunity to visit some new stunning venues and work with some of the best wedding suppliers the Southwest has to offer. I got stuck in snow during the beast from the east, dodged sheep poo, plenty of rain, incoming tides and so much more, but I can’t tell you how blessed I feel and how much I love my job and you guys are playing an important part in it. A year filled with laughter, tears and so much love. Thanks soooooo much! Roll on 2019…
Wedding Photography Morwenstow, North Cornwall // Caroline & Ben
Caroline & Ben’s wedding in Morwenstow, Cornwall featuring a mini, a lovely decorated marquee at Caroline’s Grandma’s farm, a DIY driftwood bar with draught beer and cider and a personalised version of “Sweet Caroline’ performed by Ben’s family…a great day…
THE CEREMONY
Caroline and Ben tied the knot in the Church of St Morwenna and St John the Baptist in Morwenstow on the North Cornwall Coast. I was booked from the ceremony onwards and unfortunately missed one of my favourite times of the day, the bridal getting ready stage.
So I arrived at the church just after midday to capture the guests arriving for the ceremony. I’m always nervous with church weddings as some vicars seem to do anything to prevent you to take good photos in their church. I had one telling me and some videographers that we would only be allowed to shoot from the back of the church otherwise he will throw us out. I mean, what’s that for a welcome and how are you supposed to photograph the ceremony just from the back?? Gladly, today it was a very warm welcome by this lovely chap and his friendly laid back collie dog, which slept peaceful throughout the whole ceremony in the front of the church!
After the ceremony we ventured down the nearby Duckpool beach for photos, it’s not far away from where Ben proposed. Ben and Caroline chose a mini for their transport, so we were all equipped for some great shots.
THE RECEPTION
The reception was at Caroline’s grandma’s farm in a beautifully decorated marquee set in a stunning landscaped garden. The Driftwood bar with draft beer and cider was handmade by Caroline’s sister’s husband, very impressive!
For me the highlight of the day was Ben’s family singing a personalised version of ‘Sweet Caroline’ by Neil Diamond, a rather great performance and even better surprise!
Caroline and Ben, you and your friends and family were fabulous and so welcoming, I absolutely enjoyed every minute of capturing your beautiful wedding day. Thanks for having me there and I hope you like this little preview… the rest of the images will be ready to be send you very soon..
Venue: Morwenna Church & Coast to Coast Marquee // Date: 02.09.18 // Flowers: Jennifer Candy // Makeup: Penny Pascoe MUA // Hair: Jeneration Hair Design //Cake: Exe-Cellent Cakes // Music: The Stereo Jack’s
Why to take your dog to your Wedding
There are so many reasons why you should take your beloved dog to your wedding day, but there are also a few precautions to take..
We all adore our furry companions and it's not a surprise that many couples want to include their pets in their wedding day.
Anne & Simon took their beloved Cockerpoo to their hotel Tresanton Wedding...
Let's face it, there is nothing more adorable than a french terrier in a tux! And if dress ups are not your thing, there are so many cute decoartive items you can buy. I've even seen custom made wedding collars or special flower arrangements to be fitted on lead and collar. Make sure you check with your florist though as some flowers are poisonous for dogs. Also any other dress up items should fit perfectly and not cause any discomfort, and ensure that any accessories like bow ties don't come loose and pose a choking hazard to your pet.
ask your florist to add a flower piece for your dog's collar..
matching outfits anyone?
If you're planning to include your dog, there are a few more precautions you need to take to keep your pet safe and happy during the day.
Consider your pet's personality, he can simply be a guest of honour or you can give them a specific role like ring bearer, flower girl or page boy. I photographed a wedding in St ives last year, where George the french bull terrier was the ring bearer of the day and they created a great short film to be shown at the ceremony. I hardly ever seen so many people laughing at a ceremony! The story was the following: It turns out that the best man forgot the rings at the ceremony! So he calls George to save the wedding day. George, lazy as he is, still in bed, gets the wake up call and has to chase through St Ives to get to the venue in time with the rings.. The film was not just funny and a great contribution to the ceremony, but also showed off the surrounding area and St Ives beaches beautifully. George became famous after the wedding as the film went viral on youtube with over 55000 views!
Here is the link:
George the french bull terrier and faithful ring bearer during the ceremony at St Ives Harbour Hotel
But before you give your pet a starring role, think about if this will be an enjoyable experience for him. Even a most friendly and well behaved dog could be overwhelmed by a crowd of guests, so it's reasonable to organise a pet sitter. You can hire them or choose one of your friends who is familiar with your dog. It is just one thing less to worry about.
Make sure you include your pooch in some of the couple portraits. It's usually a great time of day where they can stretch their legs and come along with us for the photoshoot. I love getting them involved, they make some great shots!
At the reception you could include photos of your dog in the decoration, or make wedding favours in tribute to your pooch. I've also seen couples collecting and donating money to animal charities like the greyhound trust, which is a nice gesture and serves a good cause.
some table decoration ideas including your pooch..
With a lot to tick off your 'to do' list, it's easy to forget this simple-yet important step, check with the venue if your pet is allowed. You don't want to show up on the day with your four legged ring bearer in tow only to be told he needs to stay off the property!
And if you manage to take your furry friend to your big day, what's better than a fresh air dog walk in a beautiful setting to cure the hangover the day after..
doesn't he look pleased to take part at his owner's ceremony at The Green Cornwall Wedding & Events?
Melodie enjoying the day with her pooch at Polhawnfort
A tender moment flowergirl and wedding dog, just adorable…
Becky and Alex enjoying a stroll on Lusty Glaze beach just by themselves with their adorable German Shepperd …
Dog friendly wedding venues in Cornwall:
Best of 2017 Collection
Best of 2017 Collection. Its was a tough decision to make the cut, I had the opportunity to document so many beautiful wedding stories and visit such incredible places around the South West and further afield...
OMG it was a tough decision to make the cut, so many beautiful weddings and moments captured in 2017! So I would like to present you a rather large collection of the best shots from last year. It was a busy year and I have witnessed some beautiful people tying the knot in some incredible places in the south west and further afield.
Some of you braved the elements just to get some great photos, including torrential rain, thistle fields, dodging sheep poo, climbing up high cliffs and avoiding sparkler burns.. I have witnessed happy tears and raw emotion and of course lots and lots of alcoholic beverages which provided fuel for some wild parties and dancing! I can't tell you how fortunate I feel to have been able to document all your beautiful wedding stories, to meet so many lovely people and to make some new friends along the way.
I also had the opportunity to work with some great talented people in the UK wedding industry. Thanks for all your support, without you I wouldn't be where I am today.
Roll on 2018 for some more amazing adventures!
Clare & Sam's casual wedding in Exeter, Devon
Clare and Sam's relaxed style devon wedding at Exeter Castle, followed by a reception in Double Locks Pub on the outskirts of Exeter..
Clare and Sam were already married in Santander, Northern Spain, a few weeks ago, where they had a small celebration at Clare's father's house. They also wanted to have a celebration with their english friends and family in the UK, so they decided to have a ceremony in Exeter Castle and a casual reception in Double Locks Pub on the outskirts of Exeter. They were blessed with great weather, which was surprising after the long spell of showers we had already here in the Southwest recently, it was certainly a nicer day in between the rain storms! The decorations were all DIY and everything else was held in a real casual and relaxed style, just the kind of day I enjoy capturing.. no set formula, just everyone enjoying themselves with lots of laughter, drinks and dancing..
The DJ set sounded promising and the party started straight after the first dance, I even caught myself tapping my feet to the beats.. I guess I would have stayed if I wouldn't have had to drive 1,5 hours to get home..
What a beautiful day and lovely couple to work with! Here are some of my favourites..
Ceremony Venue: Exeter Castle // Reception Venue: Double Locks // Date: 05.08.17 // Flowers: family's friend // Hair: DIY // Makeup: DIY// Dress: Patrick Casey // Suit: French Connection // Cake: DIY // DJ: Offbeat Entertainment
Devon Wedding Photography // Catherine & Laurence
Catherine and Lawrence celebrated in style in a Tipi style marquee right on Branscombe beach on the South Devon Coast..
Catherine and Laurence were married in a tiny church near her grandparents house in the small hamlet of Fishpond Dorset. Her grandparents used to be church wardens there and their house is just a couple of hundred meters up the road. After the ceremony everyone ventured to the house for some drinks to celebrate in their beautiful garden with views over the Dorset coast. We then ventured to the reception venue, a tipi style marquee right on Branscombe beach on the South Devon coast, ca 45 minute drive away. They told me it would be a Tip tent wedding by the beach, but I was breathtaking by the location when I arrived, it was literally on the beach!
Catherine and Laurence had it all for their day, scorching weather, blue skies, a beautiful tipi provided by World Inspired Tents, tasty Paella made by the lovely crew from Hermanos Paella, a Cheese Van for snacks, a Ceilidh Band and a marshmallow roasting pit and much more..
Here are a few of my favourites from a scorcher of a day on a beautiful beach in Devon
Venue: World Inspired Tipi Tents Branscombe // Date: 17.06.17 // Dress: Heidi Hudson Designs // Suit: TBC// Hair and Makeup: Bolts Hair and Beauty (Axminster) // Caterer: Hermanos Paella// Cake: Friend // Band: Rabscallion Ceilidh Band
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When searching for your wedding photographer, you’ve probably fallen in love with a particular wedding photography style — whether that’s documentary, editorial, film-inspired, or something with a fine art edge. Choosing a style you love is important, but beyond the aesthetic, have you thought about which moments from your wedding day you’ll want to relive forever?