I only have one word to describe Tillie and Jonny’s wedding….EPIC!! The whole day was full of laughter, happiness, style, sunshine, dancing, great food/drink and two perfect locations to provide the backdrop for it all.
I did a family shoot for Tillie and her family a couple of years back now and when Tillie and Jonny asked me to photograph their wedding with the reception taking place at Tew Farmhouse I knew it would be nothing short of amazing!
I met up with Tillie who was getting ready with her family and bridesmaids at her parents house. Everyone was really chilled and enjoying a few glasses of champagne whilst being pampered with hair and make up. The dogs were running around the grounds and the sun was shining with not a cloud in the sky. Tillie’s dress was hidden upstairs and when it came time to put it on there were a few tears in everyone’s eyes as she walked down the stairs to see her Father Paul for the first time.
Richard was having a great time with Jonny and the boys who were over at Tew Farmhouse ensuring everything was set up in the marquee. They all looked super sharp in their suits and sunglasses as they made their way over to the church to greet guests arriving.
St Michael’s and All Angels in Great Tew is a beautiful church and the light streamed in through the windows as Tillie walked down the aisle with her proud father Paul. Jonny was all smiles as he joined hands with Tillie to start the ceremony. The church had been beautifully decorated with flowers by Tillie’s Mum, Theresa and you could smell the lavender as the happy couple said their vows and exchanged rings to become husband and wife!
With the sun shining brightly the new Mr and Mrs Gilkes left the church through a confetti tunnel before making their way over to an amazing vintage Bentley which was a surprise to both Tillie and Jonny, generously supplied and driven by Paul’s friend Andrew.
After a short drive everyone was enjoying drinks and canapes at Tew Farmhouse with live music playing and lots of hugs, laughter and congratulations! We took the time to do some family groups and capture everything going on around the marquee before taking a big group photo before everyone headed in for the speeches.
The speeches were another highlight of the day. Paul, Jonny and Best Man Joe did an awesome job of entertaining the guests with funny stories, props, a half missing shirt and plenty of banter. It was a joy to capture it all.
After the three course meal which was enjoyed by all, the sun was starting to set so we took Tillie and Jonny to the nearby cornfield to take some sunset shots. The light was to die for and I love the shots of them both walking through the corn as you will see below.
It’s rare that we get to photograph an outdoor first dance and once again we loved every minute of it. With the sun setting behind them the live band really got the party started and I have to say it was one of the best dance floors ever, never empty and everyone giving Tillie and Jonny a party to remember. The perfect ending to an unforgettable wedding day.
Tillie and Jonny, thanks so much for asking me to photograph your wedding day. Rich and I had a blast with you all and I can’t wait to show you your full collection and get designing your album. For now heres a few images that make up your sneak peek storyboard!
Big thanks also to Richard Foister for assisting and 2nd shooting on the day, great job as always.