Larmer Tree Wedding

They say three time’s the charm, and for Melody and Dave this was certainly the case. After 2 postponements due to covid they finally were able to have their long-awaited outdoor wedding ceremony nestled in the enchanting Larmer Tree Gardens. Situated just a stone throw away from King Johns House, which was the accommodation for the weekend and DIVINE backdrop for the bridal prep photos. This picturesque wedding was on a warm but cloudy day – providing ideal soft, lighting conditions and a dream setting to tick off my photography bucket list. I have always wanted to have Larmer Tree Wedding Photography on my portfolio from the moment  I set out to become a wedding photographer 12 years ago!

This made the day extra special for a couple who I had gotten close to after we had supported one another through navigating the plights of wedding planning through a global pandemic at the same time. This was also the first, full capacity wedding I had photographed since before lockdown. Under the guidelines venues were able to have as many guests as could safely socially distance. A benefit of being in the idyllic outdoor Larmer Tree Gardens, was that all their guests could be accommodated. This made for a rather impressive confetti archway as the couple exited their wedding ceremony. 

On the day of wedding, I met Mel at the extraordinary, Grade II* King John House for bridal prep whilst Dave and the groomsman were getting ready at the King Johns Inn, opposite. The luxurious house looked straight out of a storybook, with the house and manicured Japanese water gardens providing picture perfect backdrops.  The rich auburn hair of the bride complemented the period tapestries framed by the red velvet curtains, the jewel tones of the bridesmaid gowns and peacock colour fascinator worn by the mother of the bride. This set the tone for the regal, luxurious colour palette of the day. Just before the bride slipped into her dreamy gown, there was just enough time to photograph it in the temporal gardens and for her dog to photobomb some of the bridal prep images. 

Ruth Tong finished the bridal glow-up, with a copper toned smoky eye and fashioned the brides auburn locks into a curled half up, half down look. Tracy from White Designs Bridal created the vintage inspired jewellery (which is also the supplier I used to create my wedding accessories). The jewellery featured jade and turquoise colours, that complemented the bridesmaid gowns and bespoke cufflinks made for groom Dave. Melody chose florals of gyp, coral roses and thistles provided by local florist Belle and Bea.

The bride looked every inch the lady of the manor in a full ballgown, featuring an illusion back with covered button details and a two tier horsehair tulle skirt, which created cloud like volume and a graceful silhouette as Mel made her way down the staircase to her beaming bridal party and father. A heartfelt moment as Mel and her father struggled to look at one another as the emotion of the day was too overwhelming. The bridal party made the short journey in a vintage grey salon car, by Superwed Cars, to her Larmer Tree wedding. Dave wore tweed which may have seemed an odd choice for the weather; but was a reminder of the journey so many couples have travelled to the alter, with re-schedules becoming the norm. A nod to the couples own previous attempt to wed in October. 

The ceremony was held outside in front of the Lower Indian Room, one of many ceremony options at Larmer Tree weddings. Over 20 roaming peacocks, synonymous with the Larmer Tree Gardens, made for a talking point and the most unique of wedding witnesses. The ceremony was full of emotion and yet the couple seemed to be in their own bubble, enjoying this moment together, accompanied by the occasional interruption from one of the peacocks which really helped relax everyone and ease any nerves. After the ceremony had couple shots throughout the rest of the evening which took advantage of the gardens, with their vast choice of photo opportunities. The wedding breakfast decor was a showcase of the couples choice of personal, DIY Pinterest inspired decoration. A decorative key with name label, replaced the usual table plan. Their stunning cake was made by The Macaroom and was accompanied by matching macaroons and gluten free cupcakes. A day of bridal fantasy was complimented by literary fable inspired centre pieces. Each lovingly handmade by the bride and co-ordinated to a specific book from Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes, Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland – the classics were all represented. Sloe gin was the flavour of the day as favours for each guest alongside etched names on wooden log coasters for place cards, kids had an activity book with sweets to accompany. 

The evening was started off with the release of lanterns onto the pond to remember those family members who were no longer with the family. This was tender moment, was followed by a Cinderella one, with a choreographed first dance, in front of the temple. Due to restrictions the guests stayed entertained through table board games or for those feeling more active, garden games. The night came to a close with a bang. Both Melody’s father and now husband work for the families firework and special effects business. This magical garden wedding provided the backdrop to a magnificent display to mark the start of the couples union. I hope by looking through this album it brings some colour back into your day and if you’re interested in having me capture your special day please contact me here.