Back in June I had the immense pleasure of photographing Jessica and Austin’s wonderful outdoor wedding in the small village of Kenn near Bristol in Somerset. I was working for the day as a second shooter with my good friend and top Birmingham wedding photographer Darren Gair from The Last of the Light.
Groom prep was at New Orchard Farm Lodges a stunning lakeside holiday park a few miles from the wedding venue. Austin, who was originally from the USA, was joined by his Dad who had flown over from Iowa especially for the wedding. As a primary photographer I’m normally shooting bridal prep so it made a nice change to be able to focus on the grooms preparations.
Once Austin was suited and booted he headed over to the Hilton Double Tree Cadbury House Hotel at Congresbury for a “first look” with a difference. Austin was blindfolded so only Jessica, his wife to be, would get a first look before the ceremony.
From the Hilton we then made the short journey to Kenn village where the ceremony was being held in the garden of Jessica’s Grandma’s house. The garden looked splendid as it was in full summer flower and had been decked out with seating for the guests. The ceremony was a wonderful affair with lots of music and songs backed up by a band featuring the bride and groom’s friends.
Once the ceremony had finished everyone made their way over the road to a marquee which had been erected at Kenn Village Hall right opposite Jessica’s grandma’s house. There the guests were treated to a huge wedding buffet which was followed by some very emotional speeches. To end the formalities was a wonderful set of Video messages from Jessica and Austin’s friends from far flung places around the world who were unable to attend their big day.
The evening celebrations were started with the customary first dance between the bride and groom, which was followed by Jessica dancing with her dad and Austin dancing with his Mum. The dance floor then opened up and everyone was kept on their feet with two storming sets of live music featuring a mix of soul, funk and Motown hits.
Here are a few pictures from Jessica and Austin’s amazing outdoor wedding . . .
amazing set as always Simon, it was a real honor to have you by my side pal
Amazing work there Simon! Looks like you had a blast x