Lisa and James’ wedding at Wootton Park was going to be another very personal one for me. In 2015 I had the pleasure of being the wedding photographer for Lisa’s older sister Karen, when she married Mark at Moxhull Hall. At the time I remember thinking, when I saw Lisa as chief bridesmaid with James, it would be them next and here we are 🙂
Lisa and Karen are daughters of my good friend Alan and over the years myself and wife Sarah have watched both the girls grow up and had lots of good times and laughs along the way with the family. In fact, Karen and Lisa were our bridesmaids at our wedding. As well as being photographer, Sarah I were guests and really looking forward to being part of Lisa and Jame’s big day.
I met up with Lisa at the familiar family home, but today it looked a bit different. The lounge had been transformed into a great area for Lisa to enjoy her bridal prep. Karen as Matron of Honour was doing a fabulous job making sure everything was going to plan as well as helping Lisa with her make-up. Everyone enjoyed a champagne toast before Alan and Mark tied the ribbons on to Alan’s Discovery, which was providing the transport for Mum and Bridesmaids.
Lisa and her father travelled in a beautiful Vintage Rolls Royce which pulled up at the bottom of the narrow lane which led up to Allesley All Saints Church. Just at this point the heavens decided to open, but all the Bridesmaids and Ushers were close at hand with umbrellas to ensure Lisa was soon inside the warmth of the church. James, his Best Man Ed, and all the guests had already gathered inside the church eagerly awaiting Lisa’s arrival. Allesley All Saints Church is a beautiful church dating back to Norman times and a grade 1 listed building set on a hill in the delightful village of Allesley in Coventry. The Vicar conducted a wonderful light hearted service enjoyed by all. There was a special reading by James’ Dad and Lisa’s Bridesmaid played the violin to accompany the signing of the register.
After the service, there was just time to capture a few photos in the lovely churchyard before the rain once again came down. Everyone decided to quickly set off to Wootton Park for the wedding reception.
Wootton Park is an all exclusive use, stunning Barn set in the beautiful rolling Warwickshire countryside. As Lisa and James made their way up the drive to the Hall they were able to take the top down on the Rolls Royce. To everyones delight the weather had really brightened up. After a quick confetti and group shot, guests enjoyed a drinks reception on the terrace whilst Lisa, James and I explored the gorgeous grounds of the park for their portrait shots.
It was then time to head inside the Barn for the Wedding Breakfast. The speeches really were entertaining and the food was delicious. It was great fun appointing a guest on each table to carve the meat. There were certainly lots of generous portions 🙂
As evening celebrations were fast approaching there was a chance for me to take Lisa and James’s evening portraits and cake cutting shots before they made their way on to the dance floor for their first dance. The amazing evening entertainment was provided courtesy of local Coventry Band Gooz Bumpz with their special guest Lloyd McGrath Collective. Two members of Gooz Bumpz were Alan, Father of the Bride on base guitar and Karen, Matron of Honour on lead vocals It really was a fantastic evening to end such a perfect wedding day.
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Paul, so well written, you have added to our very special occassion thank you my friend