Malmerby Hall Wedding Photographer, Lake District

“Thank you so much for these, they really great. Such a good memory of the day and so good to see snapshots of other peoples evenings. I really love the ones that you took through the window of the marquee, of us at the front and the party going on behind us. Really lovely”

— Olivia & Ben

I felt especially honoured to be asked by Olivia to photograph her beautiful wedding in the Lake District as just over a year ago I shot her sister's big day. It's happened a few times in my career and it's always so lovely to see the family again. Olivia and Ben decided to get married at Malmerby Hall in the lake district near where their relationship began. It's the perfect wedding venue: you can rent the hall and stay there with the family, there is a church at the bottom of the garden and big marquee in the grounds. I arrived as Olivia's family were putting the finishing touches to the marquee, with her brother and sister climbing trees so they could tie the table plans to them!

Ben and his ushers welcomed the guests to the church as they all admired the beautiful view of the surrounding hills. Olivia and her wedding party made their way down the garden path from the hall for the service.

Afterwards, drinks were served outside the hall before everyone was called into to the wedding breakfast in the marquee. There was a really fun, informal atmosphere - perfect for me to blend into the background with my camera and get some natural shots of the party in full swing. I love finding unexpected moments that you couldn't have planned like chancing upon the bride and groom practising their first dance - one of my favourite photos from the day.The practise paid off and they glided across the dance floor accompanied by a Sinatra swing band. My night ended surrounded by guests Lindy Hopping away.