If I could do it all again Larmer Tree Gardens in Dorset would probably be pretty high up there on my venue short list. I’ve been lucky enough to work at Larmer Tree a few times now, and shot one of my very first weddings there. It’s a stunning Victorian pleasure gardens complete with stunning Romanesque temple and singing stage with peacocks roaming the grounds, and it’s only half an hour outside of my hometown of Salisbury.  I feel so lucky to have what must be one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the world on my doorstep, and it’s one of the reasons I love working there.

Gail, the wedding co-ordinator is another one. She and her team astound me each time I visit, they take care of both the wedding party and me so well. Considering how many weddings a year Larmer Tree hosts I was bowled over that Gail knew the names of all the bridal party- no mean feat! It’s those little details when you work in the wedding industry that make all the difference, and it’s an ethos I take in my own business too. When hiring a wedding venue, or a wedding photographer, you’re getting so much more than just a place to get married, and the resulting images. These elements will have such an impact on the feel of your day, and there’s lots of little things about the service provided which will make the experience either outstanding, or disappointing. It’s those little details like remembering names, or lighting the fire pits for when the guests return to the venue after spending the last minutes of day light in the sun on the lawn which takes a service from good to ‘outstanding’. It makes a day a pleasure to be a part of.

Sarah & Rob had the perfect day at Larmer Tree. We were all a bit concerned about the weather at the start of the day when it was pouring with rain. It was lovely to work with Victoria Fergusson again, who is one of my favourite hair and make up artists. Victoria has a brilliant calming influence on brides, which is really helpful to have at hand on a wedding morning. Sadly the ceremony had to be moved from the temple into the pavilion, but the sun came out straight after the ceremony and stayed for the rest of the day, and after dinner the guests were even able to take to the lawn for a rounders match! But this wasn’t the only personal touch during the day. Rob’s brother provided a Buddhist blessing after the legal ceremony and to surprise Sarah Rob had arranged for a brass band to strike up- ‘All You Need Is Love’ as they walked outside into the sun. It was a beautiful moment and Sarah’s face was a picture at the surprise! Thanks for having me guys, I had so much fun shooting your beautiful wedding day.