Sophie and Sean at Cain Manor
You set the tone
As a Cain Manor wedding photographer, I get to witness all sorts of celebrations — but Sophie and Sean’s Cain Manor wedding was something else entirely. I always say to my couples that you set the tone of your day, and Sophie and Sean absolutely did just that, From the moment I arrived until the very last dance, the energy was infectious. This was one of those weddings where everyone was there to have fun, and it showed in every photo.
Final preparations at Cain Manor
The morning began at mimosa cottage, where the night before a sausage had been buried to try and held fend the rain away. I’d like to say it worked, but in all honesty on this day it really didn’t matter what the weather was doing. We then moved to the beautiful oak-beamed bridal suite at Cain Manor. Sophie and her bridesmaids were full of excitement — music playing, laughter echoing through the rooms and the odd bottle pop here and there.
A two-sided story
On Sophie and Sean’s day I had the lovely Jennifer West Photograph second shooting with me. By having her I could ensure that the entire story of the day was being portrayed. So, when Sean and his groomsmen were in high spirits, helping each other with ties, joking around, and making sure the beer was flowing, not a moment was missed.
A Ceremony Filled with Laughter and Love
The ceremony took place at the stunning St Luke’s church with the friendliest vicar I think I’ve ever worked with. As Sophie walked down the aisle, the look on Sean’s face said it all. Even some of the groomsmen couldn’t hold it together.
The vows were heartfelt, with plenty of laughter in between — mainly at the primary school style music that accompanied the hymns. It was wonderfully nostalgic! Their joy was contagious, and you could feel the whole room smiling along.
Drinks reception at Cain Manor
After the ceremony, guests boarded the 1050’s vintage bus to take them to Cain Manor. During the ceremony there had been a rain shower but we were none the wiser and thankfully for the confetti and congratulations the sun shone.
When the guests arrived at Cain Manor they were greeted by champagne and delicious canapes. The British weather decided to let rip on us a bit and the heavens opened. But with everyone inside laughing and the drinks flowing no one cared.
Dodging the rain
Honestly, the only part of the day that the rain did play a bit of havoc with was the timings for me to get the group shots done, and the last thing I want to make my couples feel is rushed. It however appered that the weather gods were on our side when we all went outside to the front of the manor to capture everyone, the sun was beaming.
Portraits on the lawns.
Ahead of the day I knew that Sean especially wasn’t that keen about having his photograph taken, so as always we made the first set of portraits super casual and fun. I stole Sophie and Sean away for jut a few quiet minutes among the gardens — they didn’t stop laughing together the entire time. Those golden, joy-filled moments made for some of my favourite portraits of the day.
Dinner, Speeches, and the dancing.
Dinner was full of stories, laughter, and a few tears (as all good speeches should be). The reactions were priceless — I don’t think I stopped smiling behind my camera once.
And then came the dancing. But we didn’t need a dance floor for that. No no. This was my kind of couple and my kind of guests. Up they all were on their chairs singing their absolute hearts out to Oasis being sung by the incredible All Things Nice. It was one of the best wedding breakfasts that I’ve photographed. At one point during our food, Jen and I put down our knives and forks and ran back into the main room to capture everyone. Even mid meal everyone was up dancing and singing. I didn’t even care that my mash was going cold next door.
The dance floor.
I knew purely from events earlier in the day that the dancefloor was going to be electric, and it didn’t disappoint. Sophie put on a second dress for the occasion and looked incredible. Their cake cut led into the first dance where all of their friends joined them. Everyone was up on their feet.
It was pure joy — the perfect end to an unforgettable day.
Sophie and Sean thank you so much for having Jen and I with you to capture your day. It was a perfect reflection of who you are as a couple. I loved the amount of joy and energy that filled the room at all times, even when it was pouring down outside!
Claire x
If you’re planning your wedding at Cain Manor or anywhere in Hampshire, and you want photographs that feel natural, full of energy, and true to your story, I’d love to capture your day too. I am based in Solihull in the West Midlands but willing to travel for my couples.
Get in touch here to tell me all about your plans.
Supplier team of dreams:
Reception venue: @cainmanor
Photographer: @clairewakefieldphoto
Second photographer: @jennifer_west_photography
Bridal dress: @sophie.grace.bridal.ltd
Florist: @katefunkyflowers
Hair and MUA: @suzannedusekmakeup
Bridesmaids: @billy_j_bridal
(incredible) Entertainment: @All things Nice
(delicious) evening food: @thepizzapost
