Wow! What a trip that was. Back when Oliver and Hayley asked me if I would fly out to photograph their wedding in Ravello and showed me pictures of the location I instantly knew it was going to epic and boy was it.
Over 80 of their closest friends and family joined them in Ravello, which is part of the stunning Almafi Coast in Italy. We flew in the day before to shoot their pre wedding party at Giardini Caffe Calce which was expertly planned by Valentina at Italian Wedding Event’s.
We had a little time with Oli and Hayley at The Belmond Hotel, which is where they were staying and like most places in Ravello also has an amazing view. Then we headed over to meet everyone at Caffe Calce. This is such a great spot for a private party, there was a live band who were amazing, the staff and of course the pizzas!! We had a great few hours there with everyone as they all enjoyed champagne and the late afternoon sunshine.
The wedding ceremony didn’t start until 6:30pm on the Sunday so we had plenty of time to shot the beautiful details and stunning grounds that make Villa Eva so amazing! It’s hard to describe how stunning this place is but as you will see from the photos its a dream location for a wedding. Nika and her team ensure everything is perfect and along with Valentina’s planning and of course Hayley and Oliver’s ideas, design and choices it looked incredible.
There were some great moments in the morning as Hayley was getting ready. Her face was a picture as she received Oliver’s gift of a diamond bracelet just before putting on her stunning dress. The amazing light on the balcony as we did a few shots of Hayley and all her beautiful bridesmaids. It all got a bit emotional as Hayley face timed her father for him to see her in her dress for the first time. I’m glad I was there to capture it all for them.
Next up was the traditional Jewish ceremony which took place outside under a Chuppah covered in beautiful flowers. Hayley walked down the aisle with her very proud mother Sue and met Oli in the middle before finishing the walk together which made for some great photos.
The whole ceremony was great but my favourite part was the end when Oli broke the glass to big cheers of mazel tov! And everyone went to congratulate the new Mr and Mrs Hambling!
With the light starting to fade we had to be quick to get some shots of Oli and Hayley around the venue as well as family groups but we got some stunning photos of the them both and the happiness on their faces says it all as you will see below.
The guests were all enjoying drinks and canapés in the grounds before everyone was called over for the start of the traditional Israeli dancing. Once again, so much fun. The pictures of Oli and Hayley on the chairs are priceless! What a way to kick off the evenings events.
Now it wouldn’t be Italy if great food wasn’t involved and all the guests were treated to a 5 course meal including two amazing pasta courses.
Then it was time for the speeches! These were so much fun to capture. Hayley’s Dad sadly couldn’t make the wedding but had pre recorded his lovely speech and it was played on a projector. Then the three Best Men each entertained the guests with great stories and plenty of jokes before Oli took over with many thank you’s and beautiful words about his new wife.
With all the formalities out the way it was now time to party!! First up was Hayley and Oli’s first dance and they sure lit up the dance floor as you will see below. Then the awesome band and DJ “B Live” took over and got everyone grooving late into the night. So much fun and one of the best dance floors I have had the privilege to capture.
Hayley and Oliver, thanks so much for asking me to travel to Ravello with you to photograph your wedding celebrations. I only wish we could do it all again. I have so many photos to share with you guys but for now here’s your preview storyboard.
Big thanks also to Alex Bradbury for assisting and 2nd shooting and also to Empire Creative Media (videographers) for being great to work with.
