Bovisand wedding photography - Beth and James

And so it was on the sixth day of October in the year two thousand and twelve that Beth and James were declared married. 

Here is the story of their day over four locations and two ceremonies...

Proceedings started in Totness at the Friend's Meeting House. Beth is a Quaker and this was my first experience of a Quaker wedding. It is a very peaceful ceremony, with a remarkable silence allowing Friends and family alike to reflect before giving words of love, support or guidance for the couple. No photographs are permitted during the service and this actually allowed me to take in importance of the event as well. Everyone present then signs the Quaker marriage certificate, which is written in beautiful calligraphy. With a Registrar present the marriage paperwork is done afterwards to make it a legal binding. 

Following this we headed to Bovisand Lodge Estate for the preparations. James manages the estate and holiday park here. It is set in a beautiful location with sea views and has beach access. Unfortunately, there wasn't time to get photographs with the couple down here, (but never fear, another beach was on hand later!)

Whilst James was already dressed and ready to go, Beth meanwhile had an outfit change hair and makeup to do.

On next to the quite sublime St Werburgh's Church, Wembury that is located right on the south Devon coast. As they had already completed the legal part of the wedding ceremony this church blessing meant that this presented the rare treat of Bride and Groom entering the church together! A touching service followed and concluded with a surprise guard of honour outside with the chaps from James' old rowing club using oars instead!

After the formal group shots I whisked Beth and James away for some alone time and a chance to get some really special images. The sun was racing towards the horizon and giving us a wonderful light to play with. We even managed to head down to the beach below the church and got some really beautiful moments.

The wedding reception was held in a wonderful Tentipi in Down Thomas. I love these tents, they always create a good atmosphere inside. There was also a chill out tent for the children and a booze tent for the adults! A fire-pit in the main tent kept us warm and marshmallows were on hand for those with a sweet tooth. The delightful wedding sponge cake looked incredible.

With some additional wireless flashes I was able to get a nice fill light on the speakers during the speeches and this complimented the band's colourful strobes on the tent.

The first dance shifted in tempo half way through and elicited a rapturous applause from the cheering guests who then hit the dance floor themselves to the band's cool sounds.

It is special thing to find two people so genuine, kind and welcoming. Beth and James really made me feel like part of the family and their warmth and care is shared with everyone they meet. I'd like to congratulate them on an awesome wedding and for allowing me to capture it in the best way I know how. It was a real treat.

If you would like to find out more about my wedding photography then drop me an email on info@simonbiffenphotography.co.uk or make contact through my website.