Fiona and Dave’s intimate Surrey wedding.

“They’re absolutely fantastic Claire, we’ve just been going through them and smiling away as they capture our day perfectly.  We honestly can’t even pick a favourite! My family love them too!… The photographs made us smile so much looking at them and remembering our day which is why we love photos so much, they have the ability to transport you back to a moment in time to briefly enjoy it again!”

Marry now, party later! 

Not deterred by Covid-19, Fiona and Dave had planned an intimate wedding for 10 at the stunning Foxhills hotel in Surrey. With the view that next year they would have a bigger celebration with their family and friends in Dublin, Ireland.

Before I had even met Fiona and Dave in person, I knew they were going to be a dream couple to work with. Myself and Fiona had exchanged numerous emails, obviously about the wedding, but also about having a son who was hitting their toddler years. It was friendly and relaxed. When we then caught up on the phone in the week leading up to the wedding to chat through their day. this just confirmed it.

A beautiful setting in the September sunshine. 

As I arrived at Foxhills for bridal prep photos the sun was shining and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, but yet it wasn’t too hot. It was just perfect. As I arrived at Fiona’s room, I was instantly made to feel welcome by Maggy and Sarah, who were Fiona’s guests for the day. I felt like I’d arrived for a girl’s night out! The atmosphere was relaxed and jovial. Listening to songs from Fiona’s youth and hearing anecdotes of their childhood in Ireland. Being let into this bubble is a real privilege for me and really helps me understand a bride better before we head into the day together. Fiona was relaxed and funny so I knew that the rest of our day was going to follow suit.

A relaxed and intimate ceremony for 6. 

I left slightly ahead of the girls to get to Weybridge register office in time to capture their arrival. Here I met Dave, who informed me he’d had a slightly hectic morning but was feeling alright. They had already told me that only four guests were allowed into the ceremony itself so I would need to wait outside. As I mentioned it was a beautiful day, so all of the windows were open. Windows that gave me a perfect view of the bride and groom to allow me to take some photos of them saying their vows, exchanging rings and sharing their first kiss. In times like this you need to think outside of the box a bit! A huge thank you to the staff their as well who pushed the window open a bit further for me!

When they were declared husband and wife, we took some time to capture some photographs in the beautiful grounds at the register office before heading back to Foxhills to a champagne reception in one of their private dining rooms. It was so intimate and the room was filled with laughter from the second we arrived. Because of the setting I was privy to some GREAT stories being told! I could hardly stop laughing to capture photographs at one point.

Let the fun commence!

Then the main man arrived, who the day was really about (sorry F&D), their little boy. Fresh from nursery and looking SO ridiculously cute in his little bow tie and waist cote in colours to match his Daddy. Even down to the shoes. At this time, we went outside to enjoy the gorgeous September sunshine and a proper run around (even the adults). Spirits were sky high and whilst taking some group shots there was not one fake or forced smile to be seen.