Rachael & Shane's Wellington Barn Wedding
A Hidden Gem
When driving to meet Rach & Shane at Wellington Barn for the first time I was struck by the rolling landscapes surrounding it and knew this would make for a spectacular backdrop to their special day. The barn itself is nestled in the lush green hills and countryside of Wiltshere and completely isolated from any noisy traffic or busy crowds.
As there are no bedrooms for guests to stay in Rach and her wedding party were getting ready in a changing room just off of the main restaurant area with some big comfy leather sofas nearby. The back of the building is top to bottom glass windows so offered some spectacular natural light which I used to my advantage whilst the make up was being done. Natural light is excellent when available and used properly.
Applying the make up
Due to the large windows at the front and back of the barn we had to be careful that Rach and Shane didn't see each other before the ceremony but they did meet for a 'first touch' to exchange a few reassuring words to each other, separated only by a curtain, in a very tender moment.
First touch
Tears and Cheers
As the ceremony started Shane could not hold back his emotions as his daughter, Poppy, walked up the aisle towards him, followed by Rach's father, Chris, as he walked her up the aisle to be married. Whilst editing these photos it took me back to my wedding and exactly the same scenario and feelings. I have to admit that on occasion either during the day itself or back in the office editing I sometimes get a little choked up!! It's hard not to as even though I'm photographing people I don't know I'm still caught up in the raw emotions that touch everyone the same way. It's why we cry at movies or plays. Plus after getting to know a couple before the day itself and some understanding of their background it means so much more when it all comes together.
Emotional moments
In keeping with British summer time weather there were showers throughout the morning just to provide an extra challenge so once the ceremony had finished everyone gathered outside for a group photo whilst there was a break in the clouds. Despite being 6'6" I still have to occasionally perch perilously on tip toes on a chair to get the right angle.
Hooray!
Boy Band Bants
Shane and his groomsmen had great banter and made for some funny photos together. They also had a strange and secret hand gesture that they wanted a photo of, but offered no explanation what it meant. Even Rach didn't know (and didn't want to!). Maybe it's a boy band thing...?
What does it mean??
Groomsmen
Groomsmen
The skies cleared for the rest of the day and I took the happy couple away for some romantic shots in the fields. I couldn't be happier with the results (thanks in part to the weather, and to Heather the videographer for helping with the reflector) as they were just as I had envisioned on our first meeting at the venue. Rach and Shane modelled beautifully and their strong affection and love for each other really shows in the photos.
Rach & Shane
With their party hats on and in full flow, Rach and Shane kicked all the kids off the bouncy castle for a private bounce of their own (wedding day privileges!) and then onto the dance floor for their first dance as husband and wife.
Bouncy castle time!
First dance
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More photos from the day.....
