On Friday I had the immense pleasure in being part of Craig and Elaine’s big day which saw me around the City of Preston. The Bride is my Brother-in-law’s Sister and I felt very privileged to be included in documenting it all.
I set of to the Marriott Hotel in Broughton, Preston to capture the build up of the girls getting ready. As I arrived I was greeted by Elaine who seemed very calm and collected and before I knew it I was photographing the girls getting their hair and make-up done. After a short while I then took the all important detailed shots of the wedding dress, shoes, jewelry, flowers etc. The ceremony was held elsewhere so I knew time would eventually come to a close for the Bridal preparations but I did what I always do best and just capture the moments as a fly on the wall.
The wedding was to take place at the Fulwood Free Methodist Church just minutes away from where I started the morning. I met up with Craig and he quickly introduced me to the Ushers who were to help with a few jobs later in the day and I also managed to speak with Pastor Ian who was the marry the couple. Craig waited at the front of the aisle whilst Elaine and her Bridal party arrived in a stunning classic wedding car.
As the doors opened the first sight Craig saw was one of the Bridesmaids holding hands with his Daughter Lucy who quickly ran towards him shouting “Daddy” which was lovely. He eventually saw his Bride-to-be walking down the aisle with her Brother, Gary who looked very proud to be by her side. The ceremony was full of emotions and one which included a short video of the beginning of the Disney film, UP. It was a great reminder of what life is all about 🙂
With vows read, rings exchanged and the signing of the register complete it was time for the newly weds to make their way back up the aisle as Husband and Wife. I prepped them before hand about stopping just before the exit so guests can congratulate them before making their way outside for the confetti shot. The formal groups were conducted afterwards and there was even time for tea and cake to be enjoyed by everyone.
So the time came to head to the reception venue as we were up against the clock and also daylight. We still needed to squeeze in some shots of the happy couple together before speeches were read and the wedding breakfast was eaten.
Craig and Elaine had a short drive around in their wedding transportation before being dropped off outside the Preston Grasshoppers Rugby Football Club. We had about 15/20 minutes of time around the grounds but before we knew it we were heading inside to warm them up before they were officially announced into the room.
The formalities began with the speeches and first up was Gary. He absolutely nailed it and had everyone laughing and sobbing as he talked about his Sister. Next was the main man himself who shared a couple of stories but mainly included all the Thank you’s of the day and finally was the Best man who had everyone in stitches throughout.
With the evening approaching everyone was full of good food, pleasantly merry and entertained by the host Rugby Union team who played a match outside. The newly weds booked a photobooth which went down a treat and with the DJ in full flow of some cracking music I knew the evening was to be a good one!
The first dance was a loving moment between the new Mr & Mrs Shaw but was cut short as Lucy pounced and joined in as a family. I hope that Craig, Elaine and all of their friendly family and friends had an absolutely wonderful and memorable day. I can’t wait to share with you all the whole day but for now please enjoy these sneak peek shots 🙂
Thanks…
