Leila and Ben's Wedding with a view

The consultation

I first met Ben and Leila in their lovely little home in Dorset between Bridport and Weymouth. It is a consultation I will never forget; sausages drying in the kitchen, and pots of foraged herbs and plants in quaint containers lining a wooden dresser. We hopped in their little buggy and drove down to an open plot of land overlooking the Jurassic Coast. They explained all about their thoughts and ideas for their simplistic but large affair. Whilst flouncing through the long grass we pondered over the ceremony being next to the lake, or higher up, over looking the dramatic coast line. We discussed the pros and cons of each site, possible locations for the couple photos and admired the scenery. After a quick trip back up the village in the handy truck, I excitedly drove home pondering the vision of their day.

Dorset Wedding Venue with a Sea View!

The day was just as dramatic as the view. Unfortunately, there were several traffic incidents along the coastal path meaning the roads were being closed off in nearly all directions to the site. Thankfully, I was able to get through (leaving early is always a good thing!) and arrived on site surrounded with the hustle and bustle of tents being erected by keen and eager guests preparing for their overnight stay. I was even greeted with my very own VIP handmade parking sign- I do love it with clients go above and beyond!

Initially, I walked around the site taking photos of helpers busying themselves, the decorations and food laid out neatly on the tables, things that are often not seen by the bride and groom as the mentally and physically prepare for what lies ahead. I have to say, this is one of my most favourite times of the day; the excitement in the air, everyone rushing around in their own little worlds making sure the day has its perfect start, the overwhelming sense of togetherness and community.

Despite the extravagant setting, a marquee from Taddle Farm Tents imposing over the landscape, Ben and Leila's wedding was incredibly homely, rustic, and familial. Each guest were invited to bring a plate of food, flowers were hand picked by Leila to decorate the marquee, and impressively, Leila also made her own dress, grooms suits, bridesmaids dress - and I am sure there were other things too! Her Auntie was playing the violin, and Ben's father was celebrant for the service. This really was a family affair and you could sense that every single person at the wedding had a special place in the hearts of the bride and groom.

Bride on horseback!

After a brief hug with Ben, I met with Leila at the agreed meeting point, where she was horseback, looking like a royal princes. After a few candid shots (there were certainly no way Toby, the horse, was going to be posed!) myself and the mother of the bride wading through long grass, climbing over gates to race Leila and Toby to the ceremony area to await her arrival.

I mean, it is not every day you see a bride arrive on horseback around a lake with the wedding overlooking the Jurassic Coastline, several gasps and people in awe as Leila, so majestically, rode in. The service was just as special, and family orientated with meaningful readings from close loved ones, and Ben's Father doing a sterling job at officiating the service. After the service, we created, what has to be the longest confetti pathway I have ever shot; and let me tell you walking backwards up a hill, on the grass is not an easy feat!

Ben and Leila were very clear that they wanted just one photo of them together, and for the rest of the day to be documentary. With the wind blowing perfectly we captured her caped dancing off her shoulders; there was no prompt needed, Ben and Leila just looked at each other, taking in the moment of calm after the chaos of the morning, soaking in the love for one another.

I captured candid photographs as they headed back to the marquee to re-join everyone to enjoy the incredible spread of home made breads, meats, cakes (lots of cakes!) and chatter. It was mesmerising to see approximately 150 people together, but feeling still like you were at a small family gathering. Although, I am very much an introverted person, the sense of energy I get from observing long awaited hugs and kisses, overdue chats, and endless smiles.