Caroline and Marcus had a relaxed stylish wedding in September at the Tunbridge Wells boutique hotel, One Warwick Park. One Warwick Park weddings tend to be contemporary, chic and sophisticated. I have photographed a few weddings at the venue over the last few years, all in different seasons.
Bride and the Girls
Caroline spent the morning in the bridal suite along with her girls and makeup artist Nicky. It was a lively, relaxed atmosphere as they toasted the bride. I loved spending the time with them all; it was a fun morning. There were lots of details to photograph too; Caroline’s dress from Isabella Grace Bridal boutique, her shoes, jewellery, plus an unusual gift of kisses in a frame from her bridesmaids!
The Groom the Boys and the Dog
Before Caroline was due to step into her dress, I headed off to a local pub, The Grove Tavern, to meet Marcus, the boys, plus Wilbur, the dog. Wilbur arguably had the most critical job of the day, to deliver the rings! After walking back to the hotel with the boys, grabbing a few shots along the way, I went back to Caroline while she got dressed and added the final touches.
Wilbur and the Rings
The ceremony was held in the lovely Grade 2 listed former schoolhouse known as The Function Room, which has a stunning double-height vaulted ceiling. It was a wonderful ceremony with lots of laughter, and I particularly loved capturing Caroline and her dad as they stood in the vestibule waiting for the ceremony to begin. Then there was Marcus’s priceless reaction as he saw his beautiful bride for the first time!
Caroline’s brother sat with Wilbur, the dog, during the ceremony and assisted Wilbur in delivering the rings at the critical moment; it was lovely and very personal to the couple.
Urban Portraits
The lane between the hotel is the perfect spot for confetti and group pictures. Once done, I whisked the couple off for a short time for some shots of the two of them around the Pantiles in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. I particularly enjoy working at One Warwick Park as the location makes for some very different and more urban bride and groom photos.
The speeches were emotional, particularly from Caroline’s dad and then later from Marcus’s son. The speeches left many guests shedding tears which is always great for photos!
The evening headed into cake cutting and dancing, and by the time I left them, everyone was having a fabulous time on the dancefloor.
Caroline and Marcus hosted a gorgeous, stylish wedding full of love, joy, laughter and fun, and I loved every minute!
The Suppliers
Venue – One Warwick Park Hotel Tunbridge Wells
Brides Gown – Isabella Grace Bridal
Cake – Lindsey Toomer of Lindylous Cakes
Band – The Charlie Rivers Band
