Ahhh what can I say about this wonderful wedding?! Jea & Naz got married in the springtime at Swinton Park Estate near Masham in North Yorkshire. They live in Singapore and flew over to get married. Jea and Naz looked at many castle style venues before choosing Swinton Park, as it had to be perfect for Jea in particular, who wanted a fairytale wedding.
Guests flew in from all over the world to watch this very-loved up pair tie the knot. I’ve known Naz for several years after meeting her in Newcastle and I was absolutely thrilled that they chose me to capture their wedding.
On a slight side note – I have to say a huge thank you to Karen Mcgowran Photography here, Karen is a friend of mine that was booked to work alongside me on the day. Unfortunately, despite leaving in plenty of time to make the reasonably short journey to the venue, there was an accident right in front of me on the motorway, just before the turn off for the venue. For the first time in my entire photography career, covering hundreds of weddings, I got stuck on a closed motorway for almost four hours! A few frantic phone calls and lots of sitting around, I arrived just after the ceremony, which Karen had covered, as well as running about capturing the bridal preparations. I was so relieved that Karen had travelled in a different direction to me and was able to be there for the brides. I honestly forget when I was editing that I didn’t shoot the ceremony & bridal prep myself as Karen covered it exactly how I would have.
At times like that it’s particularly important to know I have some brilliant professional photographer colleagues who are willing to step in in an emergency to make sure no wedding is missed. I’d helped out others in similar situations in the past but this was a first for me.
Anyway! Back to the big day….
Carolyn Clayton made the brides hair look extra amazing!
Sometimes you go to weddings where you can just feel the love in the room, and Naz & Jea’s wedding was a big example of that. Every guest was thrilled to be sharing in their day. The speeches were so emotional and heartfelt and so many people were simultaneously laughing and crying.
After the meal we popped outside for a few portraits in the gorgeous afternoon sun. Being big kids like myself, the happy brides were up for a bit of fun with their photos. I always like it when a couple aren’t afraid to be themselves and have a giggle!
After the cake was cut, it was time for the first dance and a traditional ‘money dance’ which was great fun, with several worldwide currencies pinned to the brides’ dresses.
The band was brilliant, and after one of their sets it was time for the guests to step outside for their surprise – fireworks. It was absolutely magical watching them outside the castle over the countryside and was a really special part of the night.
Days like this make me realise how privileged I am to do the job I most love.
A huge congratulations to Naz & Jea on their marriage and thanks so much for having me and Karen capture your special day.
Big shout out to Moon River Films, Mike, who was brilliant to work alongside capturing video – click here to see their amazing video highlights.
All images copyright Katie Byram Photography.