A Stunning Summer Wedding at Hamswell House: Hannah and Alfie’s Unforgettable Day
Where to begin with Hannah and Alfie’s big day at the beautiful Hamswell House in Somerset... As a wedding photographer, I simply love days like this. Days which are unique, full of personality, and overflowing with joy and laughter.
Bridal Prep
We started at a beautifully spacious Airbnb based in central Bath, close to the famous crescent. I’m beginning to recommend this to more and more couples as a full house provides the group a super relaxed and flexible place to get ready! Picking the right one will give you space, lighting and a place to all stay together before the big day. Hannah nailed the brief here!
The vibe of the morning was something else! With chilled music on in the background, orange juice with Prosecco and pastries for all, the group were just having the best time. Not to mention the wedding day was also Hannah's niece's birthday, so double celebration in the morning!
As mentioned earlier, Hannah and Alfie had a close family and friend vision for the day. Linking in with this was Nina who was in charge of makeup, bringing the glam and even the emotions with some very sentimental gifts.
After makeup, it was time for the dress... And wow, how blooming amazing did Hannah look in her dress! Chosen from The White Room in Minchinhampton (with a special shoutout to Zoey), the dress suited Hannah perfect. I'd say a match made in heaven. With help from Hannah's Sister, Rosie it was time for final tweaks before the big reveal to Dad and leaving for Hamswell House.
Hamswell House
Located in Somerset, Hamswell House is a photographer's dream. With beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding valley, amazing lawns, orangery and more it might just be the perfect setting for a summer wedding. Hamswell house is unlike other wedding venues I have come across too. That's because Rupert and his wife still live there full time, caring for the house, land and couples who tie the knot!
Luckily we had a dry day which meant Hannah & Alfie's ceremony could take place outdoors. There is just something so amazing about an outdoor ceremony. To hear the birds singing, the wind in the trees and not to mention the perfect natural light. For me, it's just perfection!
Confetti time! The original plan was to line up down the aisle and throw confetti as Alfie and Hannah walked down the "aisle" as a newly wed couple. But I decided to change the plan and asked the groomsmen to gather the group outside the front of Hamswell house whilst H&A enjoyed their glass of bubbly. The results were SO much better having a line outside the house, providing the perfect backdrop. As an experienced wedding photographer, these calls sometimes have to be made but the end photos are always worth it!
Wedding Reception + evening
Matching the ceremony, the reception drinks were held outside with drinks flowing and canapés being enjoyed by all! Hannah and Alfie had a big emphasis on enjoying this time with friends and family therefore allowed a little extra time for the group shots. I always say 8-12 shots is the perfect balance to allow this to happen. As usual, we fitted the group shots in early to ensure this part of the day could be enjoyed properly!
Weather permitting, it's always a good idea to get couple photos in before the wedding breakfast and I typically like to do it just before the guests take their seats. This normally gives us 15 minutes to capture some magic. It turns out this was incredibly easy with Hannah and Alfie. Not only with the backdrop of Hamswell house but with the natural chemistry these two have. It's so common for one or both people to not feel naturally comfortable in front of camera. I totally get it! This is where the poses, direction and banter, break the ice completely!
Next up was speeches which was an emotional rollercoaster. We had laughter, amazing stories, heartfelt moments for those we have lost along the way and a glorious celebration of Alfie and Hannah.
Typically you would see cake cutting and a first dance next but this is what I loved about this day. H&A only included the parts THEY wanted. This meant the evening started and continued with everyone having a dance as Raise The Roof took their name very literally!!
Thank you for having me team! x
Suppliers:
Venue: Hamswell House (https://www.hamswellhouse.co.uk/)
Dress: Suzanne Neville (https://www.suzanneneville.com/)
Boutique: The White Room (https://www.thewhiteroom.co.uk/)
MUA: Nina (https://www.instagram.com/ninas_makeupworld/)
Band: Raise The Roof (https://www.alivenetwork.com/bandpage.asp?bandname=Raise%20The%20Roof)
Lead singer: (https://www.instagram.com/andy_tptfazz/)
Get in touch!
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