Emily & Chris

Emily and Chris did the best thing any couple could do for their wedding photos. 

Want to know what it was?

They were wholeheartedly themselves. They let their souls shine. They let their guard down. They let go. And the love and joy on their faces was a picture – literally. Their willingness to show and share their love with everyone was the greatest gift to witness and capture.

Equally remarkable was the love radiating from their friends and family. There was such an outpouring of love, support, and affection from every direction. 

And the best bit for me was not only being able to capture a true reflection of Emily, Chris, and their magnetic bond … but also how loved they are by their family and friends. 

So, before I share some photos, one piece of advice: Be genuine, be bold, be you. Maybe that’s only inviting people you feel safe to be yourself around, saying no to traditions that aren’t your cuppa, making unusual but truly personal plans… Because that’s where meaningful and authentic photos start.

Now, want to see how being yourselves translates into photos? Get ready to have your heartstrings tugged!

A date with destiny

Get this: Emily and Chris unknowingly picked the same wedding date as Emily’s granny. They were merrily planning away and it only came to light when telling Granny about their plans. How special is that?! So their day was layered with extra meaning and seemingly meant to be right from the start.

And they chose the beautiful Courteenhall in Northamptonshire as their venue. This was my first wedding there and I hope there’ll be many more! Want to know why? Find out what’s so great about wedding photography at Courteenhall.

A room with a view 

Emily got ready with her bridesmaids in The Pytchley Room which overlooks the pond garden, marquee setting, and church. She had a whale of a time looking out of the window to see Chris arrive, their guests walking across the field to the church, and suppliers busily adding finishing touches to the marquee. What a vantage point! 

The staircase and entrance hall made brilliant backdrops for photos of the final moments before she left for the ceremony. And the light throughout the house was divine.

A village adventure

The church was a joy to work at with amazing architecture, lovely light and fabulous flowers. But none of that was a patch on the emotion oozing out of Emily and Chris. Just look at their expressions! Did you ever see a couple so happy and excited to be married?

After their ceremony, Emily and Chris came out of one door where we took some ‘just married’ photos, while the guests left by another door and lined the path ready for a big confetti exit. Efficient use of a 5-minute window to get some lovely couple shots! And then they led everyone across the field to the reception. This joyous walk was an unusual sight and fun to photograph, with everyone soaking up the scenery and enjoying the view of Courteenhall house (and the smell of delicious canapes) growing ever closer.

An entire wedding in one gorgeous view

Emily and Chris organised champagne, canapes, and live music around the pond for their drinks reception. A real highlight was the view – the house on one side, the arboretum on another, a glimpse of the church across the field, and the marquee close by ready for dinner. 

And they wisely allowed enough time to spend with their guests and to have relaxed group photos. With a very intentional list of group photos and plenty of time, we took it slow. With time to chat as we went, so much love was exchanged. These weren’t just group photos. It was a wonderful chance to connect and make heartfelt memories with their most treasured people.

A night to remember

Emily and Chris had a marquee for the wedding breakfast and evening party. And it was a good job they did – because they would have brought the house down!

Whilst Emily and Chris followed some traditions, their day was also a delightful departure from convention.

They stood together to make a joint speech with heart and humour, followed by separate heartfelt words to each other which laid bare their profound connection and dreams for the future. They had everyone enchanted and in complete silence. It was like the rest of us were just part of the furniture.

And they showed their fun sides with a fast-paced first dance that ignited the dancefloor and had everyone on their feet.

I left that day feeling hugely fulfilled and reminded in no uncertain terms of why I’m a wedding photographer.

Feeling the love?

If you’re planning a wedding at Courteenhall and would like heartfelt photos like these – and a relaxed photographer to take them – I’d dance at the chance to be there!

Credit where credit’s due

Photography: Sarah Vivienne (hey, hi, hello!) | Venue: Courteenhall | Church: St Peter & St Paul Courteenhall | Emily’s dress: Elyan by Rosa Clara | MakeUp Artist: Gabby Caswell | Church flowers & bouquets: Fieldgate Flowers | Marquee: T&L Marquees | Stationery: Papier | Catering: Lemon Zest