Last Saturday I had the pleasure of heading off to Oxford to photograph Laura and Oliver’s wedding, with the ceremony taking place at the amazing Christ Church Cathedral followed by a beautiful reception at the Tythe Barn in Bicester.
It was a hot Summer’s day and the fans were on full blast as I met Laura and her bridesmaids who were getting ready in a nearby hotel close to the Cathedral. Laura was busy being pampered with hair and make up in between a few sips of Champagne and everyone was excited for the day ahead. Laura looked stunning in her dress and it all got very emotional as her father Mike saw her for the first time. It’s moments like these at weddings that as a photographer you feel privileged to witness.
As we arrived at Christ Church Cathedral Laura had the most amazing welcome. She stepped out of her grand Rolls Royce to huge cheers from the many tourists who were all so excited to see a British wedding. It truly felt like we were photographing Royalty. Even more so when you step inside Christ Church Cathedral as the place is simply incredible!
Oliver looked fairly relaxed as I met him at the front of the aisle ready for Laura’s entrance and it was all smiles as Laura walked down the aisle past their many friends and family to join hands with Oliver to start the ceremony.
The ceremony was beautiful with readings and hymns from Oliver’s Mum, Minni and close friends. It was a pleasure to photograph Laura and Oliver read their vows and exchange rings to become the new Mr and Mrs Gleeson!
After the ceremony we had a short time to capture some couple shots around the grounds before Laura and Oliver headed through what can only be described as a blizzard of confetti into the gardens to greet their guests.
The cars left the University grounds to big cheers and lots of waving as everyone headed off on the bus to the Tythe Barn for the reception.
The Tythe Barn is one of my favourite venues, it’s perfect for a Summer wedding and everyone enjoyed drinks and canapes in the garden whilst we did a few candids, group and couple shots. Before dinner we did a big group photo followed by Laura throwing her bouquet, so much fun as you will see below.
After everyone was treated to a fantastic three course meal it was time for the speeches and Mike, Oliver and Charles did a cracking job. There were tears, plenty of laughter and many stories shared and it was so much fun capturing it all.
With the evening now drawing in and the rain starting to fall everyone headed into the cow shed for coffees before making their way to the dancefloor for Laura and Oliver’s first dance. Shortly after the live band got everyone rocking with hit after hit to ensure the dancefloor was full into the night.
Oliver and Laura, it’s been a pleasure getting to know you guys over the last couple of months. I’m so glad you asked me to photograph your wedding, we had an absolute blast! I hope you have an amazing honeymoon. Heres your preview storyboard!
Big thanks also to Simon for assisting and 2nd shooting, great job.
