Every now and again out of the blue I’ll receive an email or Facebook message asking for late availability. This may be because of a wedding that has been organised quickly for a specific reason or even that the wedding photographer may have accidentally been overlooked but like any wedding or event it’s always wonderful to have been found online. Shane and Finola’s wedding day was to be a late celebration with having the wedding ceremony scheduled to begin at 4pm. They opted for my Silver package but due to their big day being a last minute affair, the ceremony only starting later than usual and with myself only documenting one wedding/ event a day I offered them the Bridal preparations complimentary, this was snatched with both hands and was received with sincere gratitude!
The day arrived and I headed off with all of my camera equipment in tow and looking for the first opportunity to grab a strong black coffee. I was in and out of Starbucks before making my way across the M62 towards Liverpool where unfortunately traffic was extremely heavy but I did give myself plenty of time. It turned out Liverpool football club were playing at home and I was sitting in traffic among Liverpudlians trying to get to the game, well I wasn’t and I had a wedding to get to so I took the back roads trying to make up a little lost time. I arrived a little later than expected at Devonshire House Hotel in Liverpool but everyone was in high spirits and once I said hello I cracked on with capturing the build up of the Bridal preparations. Finola had her Mum and two Bridesmaids present who were having their hair and make-up done by a professional artist and stylist.
I made my way to the bar area a little later where Shane and the wedding guests were congregating whilst, yes, watching the Liverpool game! It was all tied up until the dying moments of the game where they snatched a 1-0 win at home. Shane unfortunately missed it as he was taking his seat in the ceremony room speaking with the registrars but he had his trusty Best man and Usher keeping him up-to-date. We were a little late starting but it did give everyone the opportunity to grab a few drinks and settle into the occasion slowly. Eventually Finola and her ‘Bride Tribe’ made their way upstairs ready for the wedding ceremony to begin. The wedding party were asked to stand for the arrival of the Bride as Shane got his first glimpse of his future Wife. The wedding ceremony went smoothly with a lovely moment lighting candles and their Son offering a wonderful reading to those witnessing the special occasion. Shane and Finola tied the knot and confirmed it with an exchange of wedding rings and a kiss to cement their love. After the signing of the register was complete it was time for the newlyweds to make their way back up the aisle as Husband and Wife to receive their welcome drink.
Due to the weather being a little off, we waited for the perfect moment to get the new Mr & Mrs outside for some photos of them together. Unfortunately as we were falling behind on time I advised against a large group shot of everyone but instead concentrated on getting photos of them done and the smaller formal group shots. They agreed and really appreciated the guidance so we cracked on as we had a dry spell and finished up doing the smaller formal group photos inside the reception room where the evening celebrations will happen. Once complete all family and friends of the Bride and Groom were officially invited to enjoy the rest of the evening dancing away and fill up on good food and drink as the buffet was open.
I had a fantastic afternoon documenting Shane and Finola’s big day and I wish them all the very best for the rest of their married lives together and hope they enjoy reliving these cherished moments every so often.
