Sneaky Peek: Oxfordshire pre-wedding shoot

Our first pre-wedding shoot for 2011, and we couldn't have been luckier with the weather.

Lovebirds: Amanda & David

Our first scheduled pre-wedding shoot with Amanda and David had to be called off due to the snow dump that hit most of the UK, but we rescheduled just after Christmas, crossing our fingers there would still be a snowy landscape to shoot in.  On the day however, with the grey clouds above, and the once crisp white snow now looking more like brown sludge, I will admit I was a little worried.

When a text from Amanda and David said that the M25 was gridlocked and they would be late, I worked hard to stop the panic from setting in.  One shoot was already cancelled, and now that they were half way here, braving through the post-Christmas traffic, we have to make it work!  The pep talk worked so long as I didn't stare out of the pub window for too long watching the fading Winter light...

An hour after we had initially arranged to meet, Amanda and David pulled up.  Bless them; exhausted and hungry after the unexpected delays, there was no time for food or even a drink, but Amanda and David were real troopers.   And, despite losing a good hour of the light, their love managed to shine through and win the day ;)

As things stand at the moment, Amanda and David kick off our 2011 wedding season with their breakfast ceremony at Stonehenge; needless to say - we can't wait!

Sneaky Peek: Amanda & David

2 people in love + snow + heart-shaped red balloon = perfect ingredients for a pre-wedding shoot!

More to come soon!

Lovebirds: Mel & Mark

Okay, so I am excited before every wedding we shoot.
That's a good thing though, right?
Well, I think so, and I'm excited!

Mel and Mark are getting married next Friday.
There's a Georgian House, a Routemaster and a cool Britannia pub involved.
Oh. My. God. How amazing is it going to be!

We met up with Mel and Mark last weekend to get to know each other and take some pre-wedding shots which I've used to compile into an interactive guest book. 

Ever since I first came across this idea I've been wanting to put together a sample book, and well, Mel and Mark's groovy style gave me the perfect opportunity.  I just think it's such a fabulous way of showing off your pre-wedding pictures and gathering some well meaning sentiments and advice on your big day!

Anyway, here are some more images from the stylish couple.
Roll on next week...

Lovebirds: Louise & Russ

Louise and Russ brightened up an otherwise dull Sunday a few weeks back.
Due to get married in 2011, Louise was happy to give Russ the opportunity to relax in front of a camera before the big day.  Sadly we won't be photographing their special day but, as you can see - they are going to make a stunning bride and groom!

Sneak Peek: Louise & Russ

Managed to squeeze in an engaged Lovebirds photo shoot this afternoon with Louise and Russ.
We decided, at the last minute, to meet in Woodstock and took pictures in the grounds of Blenheim Palace.
It was perfect.
They were perfect.

Married: Lucy & Chris

Meet the Johnstones. 
Lucy and Chris got married on 31st July 2010, following in the footsteps of royalty, at the grand Windsor Guildhall.  A wonderfully ornate and elegant building, Lucy's great grandfather also once presided as Mayor here.  How proud he would have been to see the stunning bride she was.

The day started at the Royal Berkshire Ramada where I hung out with Lucy and her bridesmaids, Nina and Jude, whilst  Lucy's makeup was immaculately applied by Nicky from Beauty Call.  She was a real calming influence on the increasingly nervous bride, and also offered some excellent practical advice on where to suitably hold the bouquet (the girls will know what I mean!).

Cam in the meantime was off in search of the boys, who he eventually tracked down in a local watering hole.

I cannot even begin to do the Council Chamber justice.  The chandliers and grand portraits dating back to Elizabeth I quite literally takes your breath away. 

After the ceremony, the reception was held at the York Club in the grounds of Windsor Great Park.  I loved the contrast of the formality of the Guildhall against the country charm of the York Club, and with the weather on our side, it gave us a good opportunity for some relaxed plein air portraits.

Thank you Lucy and Chris for allowing us to share in your Big day.
Marriage rocks.