It was an absolute pleasure and so much fun to be part photographer, part guest for our friends Neil and Steph at their Merewood Country House Hotel Wedding in the Lake District. We love going to Windermere and this area of the Lakes so know it well, and decided to go up the day before and make a weekend of it. Our girls had an absolute blast.. it’s the first wedding they’ve been to (where they’ve been old enough to remember anyway) and they were mesmerised by the whole day.
The Merewood is such a beautiful setting… I’d never photographed there before so it was lovely to be able to see it with fresh eyes and take it all in. The room where Steph got ready was beautiful and light, with views over the lake and hills, and the ceremony and reception room also had the same amazing outlook.Â
Steph looked absolutely stunning in her vintage-look, beaded gown and she certainly took Neil’s breath away as she walked down the aisle. There were plenty of tears and lots of giggles from both the couple and all the guests throughout the ceremony … I always find it hard not to get emotional at weddings but when the bride and groom are your friends it’s just impossible!
After the ceremony we enjoyed drinks outside whilst everyone mingled, ate canapes and had a good catch up, before taking a few family photos overlooking the terrace and the lake. I then hopped into Steph’s dad’s car with them and he kindly drove us five minutes down the lane to the lakeside, where we took a stroll through the woods and along the pier. I could have spent all afternoon photographing the newly married couple with such a dramatic backdrop! The lake, the mountains, the pretty light peaking through the trees… It really was a photographer’s dream!! And of course a relaxed bride and groom who just chat and giggle just tops it all off.
We didn’t spend all afternoon there, as always I think it’s important not to spend to long away from all the guests and the fun of the wedding, so we headed back up to the Merewood to join everyone. The room was set up beautifully, with hand picked sweet peas and bouquets, and details based on the couple’s love of travelling. There were sweet quotes in frames, a globe, paper aeroplanes and a vintage map of the world with little flag pins to mark where Neil and Steph have visited.
The speeches were both hilarious and moving .. and I loved the reactions of everyone listening. After a delicious meal and a little rearrange of the room they then cut their cheese cake (loved the little knitted mice!) and we all danced the night away to the live band.
Thanks so much again for asking us to be there Neil and Steph! I was honoured that you wanted me to photograph your day and we all had a brilliant time!
