Salisbury Wedding Photography - Star and Martin

Weddings

16 Aug

Star and Martin's wedding at the historic Red Lion in Salisbury was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best things come together at the last minute!

They were a relatively late booking for a Saturday in August (traditionally one of the busiest times of year for wedding photography). I was actually the third photographer they'd contacted as everyone else was already booked. I was so grateful to find I had availability, and when Martin said during our consultation meeting, "I think we've ended up in the right place," it honestly made my day. It just goes to show that it's always worth enquiring with wedding suppliers - we all tend to have gaps in our calendars, even if there's no telling where those gaps will appear from year to year!

As soon as I arrived at the Red Lion, I bumped into Star and Martin in the courtyard of the hotel. No staying apart during the morning preparations for this couple, they were doing things their way! I was able to accompany Star straight up to her room and start documenting her getting ready, surrounded by her daughters and Martin's daughter too.

When ceremony time arrived, I spent an amusing few minutes keeping the saxophonist updated on proceedings. He was hiding away in a darkened room next to the ceremony space because Star had booked him as a complete surprise for Martin!

Star was then accompanied down the aisle by her son, smiling the entire way , and Martin's face when he heard that surprise saxophone was absolutely priceless!

The drinks reception followed in the Red Lion's beautiful courtyard, where the saxophonist provided wonderful background music while I captured candid photos of the celebration and squeezed in a handful of group shots.

This was a truly beautiful multi-cultural celebration, and one of my favourite moments was the spontaneous dancing that broke out during dinner. These unplanned, joyful moments are exactly why I love documentary wedding photography - you simply can't choreograph that kind of genuine happiness!

The speeches were incredibly emotional and showed just how loved this couple are. Martin's best man (his son) spoke beautifully, followed by both of Star's daughters, one of her sons, her brother, and a couple of her best friends. Having so many family members and close friends share their words made everything feel so personal and heartfelt.

After more drinks and celebration in the courtyard, the evening party kicked off with the cake cutting and first dance. But Star had one more surprise up her sleeve - she'd changed into the most fabulous sparkly silver outfit, complete with a cape!

Before too long the evening food was served, so I grabbed a tasty-looking cupcake for the journey home and said my goodbyes, leaving Star and Martin to continue their joyous celebration.

Below you will find a small selection of my favourite photos from their wonderful day. To view the full gallery, please contact Star and Martin.