Michelle and Simon
Michelle and Simon are a great couple who have been together for seven years. Michelle is a bundle of energy, there’s never a quiet moment when she’s around! Simon is the perfect complement, quieter and more considered but with a big zany streak which jumps out every now and again to surprise you. You only have to look around their home to see how important their family and friends are to them.
My second shooter for the day was James Hodgson, a fellow Hampshire photographer. We joined Michelle and her party for their preparations, which included make-up by Kelli Waldock and plenty of cups of tea.
Michelle’s bridesmaids all looked stunning in merlot dresses, complete with accessories given to them by Michelle the morning of the wedding.
I don’t think Michelle stopped smiling all day and rightfully so as she looked amazing in her delicately beaded dress and Paraodox Pink shoes. Michelle’s father Chris was so proud to see his daughter as she came down the stairs in her wedding dress. During a pause in the preparations he turned to me and quietly said, “She looks absolutely beautiful.” They set off in an amazing 1930s Sunbeam Model 25 car.
James spent time with Simon as he got ready, along with his best man Aldred, his father and brother-in-law Marc. The guys seemed pretty relaxed about the whole thing, with Aldred even finding the time to wind up Michelle over the phone!
The Archbishop’s Palace in Maidstone is an impressive 14th Century building, built for the Archbishop of Canterbury to use on his trips to London. The ceremony was held in the Solar Room, which lived up to its name by having enormous windows almost floor to ceiling, revealing a view across the River Medway . The room was packed with Michelle and Simon’s friends and family but still had an intimate feeling, enhanced by the enchanting live harp music. Simon closed his eyes for a moment as the ceremony started, gathering his thoughts as his best man Aldred looked at him with pride. Within what seemed like seconds the ceremony was over and the marriage was sealed with a kiss.
The tiny but beautiful Apothecary’s Garden next to the palace was an ideal place for James and me to take Michelle and Simon for some quieter photos. The flowers were in full bloom and the trees provided a welcome respite from the sun!
The reception at the 44Two Club was replete with touches which reflected Michelle and Simon’s personalities, from the white gerberas on the chair backs, to the sweet bar which almost groaned under the weight of confectionary and cupcake collected upon it.
It was a pleasure to spend the day with Michelle, Simon, their family and friends. For more images from Michelle and Simon’s wedding, view the slideshow.