One of the things that makes me smile the most about my job, is being lucky enough to be included in peoples life journeys and having the honour of documenting their personal milestones along the way. I’ve known Jo for quite a few years (as she is one of my most regular Christmas Mini Portrait Session clients) so when she got in touch to ask if I would photograph her big day with Chris, naturally I jumped at the chance.
When I arrived to photograph the groom at home, I was met by a group of well turned out men and two very familiar little boys. A couple of natural stars who know how to strike a pose as they’ve had plenty of practise over the years at the Christmas Mini Portrait Sessions. There was a real air of excitement in the house as they all got ready for the day ahead!
After snapping the lads getting ready at home, I headed over to the Peebles Hydro Spa, where Jo was getting ready with her gorgeous bridesmaids. I love being with the bride in the final run up to the ceremony. There are so many amazing moments to capture between family and friends; tears, laughter…and one or two nerves showing through!!
Just before Jo was led away by her Dad to say her ‘I do’s’ with Chris, I managed to grab a few minutes with the gorgeous bride to take advantage of the natural sunlight that was now steaming through the wedding suite windows. The rain that had threatening that morning looked like it was in retreat!
A quick dash downstairs to the ceremony room before Jo arrived, I managed to get some lovely shots of her boys adding the final touches to their buttonholes. A real dapper bunch of fellas!
As the sun shone through massive skylights in the ceremony hall, Jo was proudly led down the isle by her Dad accompanied by her youngest little boy and stunning bridesmaids.
The traditional ceremony was beautiful and heat-felt, along with a moving reading from the groom’s sister that had everyone in the room reaching for a tissue. Both Joe and Chris had beaming smiles throughout the whole ceremony - every photo I took expressing the shear joy on their faces.
As they made their final promises, a certain little boy helped make sure they were doing everything right!!
The weather had been pretty typical for a Scottish mid summer’s day up until the ceremony. But by the time Jo and Chris were officially hitched, the sun had made a very welcome appearance! So, we decided to head outside for a few group shots and make the most of the gorgeous Peebles Hydro gardens.
I love spending time with the bride and groom - quite often its the only part of the day they get to share a few quiet moments together.
There are so many hidden gems in the grounds of the Hydro - particularly the old railway bridge, with its red lattice iron work, which always makes for a stunning photo.
Then there is the old pavillion, green house and ‘Shed Quarters’, which since my last visit, has had a very colourful make-over….
…lending itself to a unique and very distinctive backdrop!
And finally, some time to share a few moments together in the woodland, before heading back to the waiting guests.
A jubilant gathering welcomed Chris and Jo back inside, ready for the wedding speeches. Jo had a lovely surprise, that was delight to capture after her Dad’s speech when local InChorus Choir appeared in the hall to serenade the bride and groom.
Their cue ‘I Loved Her First’ saw choir members disguised as hotel guests and staff, assemble to belt out a wonderful rendition of the song. For the second time of the day, everyone was in tears (including myself) as this touching moment and special gift from Dad was met with a standing ovation from guests. It was truly heart-warming.
Speeches from groom and best men followed, perfectly setting the mood for the celebrations to come.
A quick opportunity for me to take Jo, Chris and the boys for a few quiet family portraits outside. And a play on the swings…..of course! Before heading back in to the dulcet tones of George Ezra for the first dance.
Their day was filled with love, laughter and massive smiles from start to finish. A real family occasion, witnessed by hundreds of friends from near and far. It was amazing to be invited to capture such a great event and moment in the lives of all that shared it.