Rachael & Fahad

Rachael and Fahad had me at the words ‘wedding at Holdenby House‘ when they first emailed me. It’s one of my favourite venues. Plus, they were planning a laid-back wedding with a civil ceremony and outdoor drinks reception in the beautiful gardens. And then we met… 

One of my first questions? “So what are you looking for from your wedding photography?” To which Rachael replied:  “I’m not sure if this is reassuring or slightly alarming?!” as she pulled her wedding planning notebook out of her bag. 

Well, I haven’t seen such a pretty notebook since I was in Madame Moss’ french class doodling food illustrations in my floral wallpaper-covered exercise book so I could remember how to ask for a ham and cheese toastie should I ever find myself feeling hangry in France. 

And Rachael’s had perfectly placed post-its, annotated magazine cuttings, and colour-coded highlighting. I loved that they’d given this so much serious thought.  

I knew we’d get on and have a brilliant time. And that we did.

The excitement before the wedding

My day started in The White Room, where the girls were getting ready together. While my second photographer, Richard, captured Fahad’s preparations at Highgate House. Laughter and gratitude filled the air at both locations.

The ceremony

The ceremony took place in the Dining Room. They exchanged personal vows they’d written themselves – which made the ceremony particularly romantic and meaningful. After walking down the aisle together, they took a few moments for just the two of them, while the guests helped themselves to drinks. 

The reception

A confetti storm showered Fahad and Rachael as they emerged from the house into the gardens ready to start celebrating. 

It was the most glorious sunny day to enjoy drinks on the lawn. Especially when those drinks are gin and elderflower served in vintage tea cups. Yep, that went down a treat!

They had a roast dinner in the ballroom, followed by a few speeches – including one from Rachael. Go, Rach!

The evening

After dinner, there was time for a cuppa on the sunken lawn. This is the spot with the mirrored sculptures, which contrast with the historic house – and provide much fun for photos with warped reflections!

As everyone made their way back into the house, we ventured into the Elizabethan Garden to take some portraits as the sun went down. Golden hour photos are always worth it if it fits with your timeline.

Oh, and big ups to Rachael for making their wedding cake!

Lovely words giving me goosebumps

“Thank you so so so much for our beautiful photos and the amazing care and attention to detail you put into covering our wedding. We’re amazed and very appreciative of your enthusiasm right from the start.”

Planning a wedding at Holdenby House? 

Find out more about wedding photography at Holdenby House … and if you’d like a fab wedding photographer to go with it, I’m over here.