An elegant and relaxed garden wedding with 200 partygoers on the dancefloor, captured by Hertfordshire wedding photographer, Phil Salisbury.
Although I’m based in Manchester, I travel up and down the UK and jump on planes to Europe throughout the year to photograph weddings in my signature style – with all the real stuff, all the mad party moments and ALL the love. So, when Phoebe and Tom found me through an awesome festival wedding I photographed in Lincolnshire and invited me to join them as their Hertfordshire wedding, I knew we’d be a great match!
They were planning a luxurious but relaxed day, with a church wedding followed by a reception and HUGE party (we’re talking 200+ people packing the dancefloor huge!) in the grounds of their family home. This would be a Hertfordshire wedding like no other. It was planned to perfection by Carly from Elizabeth Victoria Weddings, who made sure the whole day ran smoothly and all that Phoebe and Tom needed to do on the day was turn up, get hitched and PARTY!
The day started with Phoebe getting ready at home, the atmosphere was calm and Phoebe was super smiley and relaxed as Jeanette from Eden Hair and make-up artist Danielle worked their magic. Phoebe’s classically elegant dress from Emma Beaumont Atelier was accessorised with Manolo Blahnik heels and delicate jewellery from Beverley Hills Jewellers and Cara Jewellers.
Meanwhile, Tom was getting into his suit from Ede and Ravenscroft at Hanbury Manor before travelling to St Mary the Virgin, Braughing for their church wedding ceremony. The floral displays in the church suited the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside location, with plenty of lush green foliage, trailing ivy and pastel-coloured flowers in impressive arrangements designed by Lucy at The Stable Blooms.
Phoebe and Tom’s ceremony was made even more special by their awesome vicar Claire, who added some personal touches. She also gave me total freedom to move around the church and take photographs from anywhere at any time – something that helped me get those important shots from various angles! Afterwards, the newlyweds were showered with dried flower confetti outside the church, I say showered... at one point the whole basket went over their heads!
Everyone made their way back to the gardens and grounds of Phoebe’s family home for the reception, with the bride and groom arriving in style in a vintage Land Rover. London band, Brass Rascals surprised guests with performances throughout the drinks reception as everyone enjoyed food and fizz in the garden. Oyster Boy Events also provided hand-shucked fresh oysters as a little treat for their guests.
Having their wedding ceremony in the beautiful surroundings of the family home meant Phoebe and Tom had total flexibility and felt completely relaxed all day. The light was gorgeous in the evening and we were treated to a stunning sunset over the surrounding countryside, giving me the chance to add an extra wow factor to their Hertfordshire wedding photography.
Their speeches were full of personal stories, and a nod to the fact Phoebe interviewed Tom for his job… turns out he’s secured a lifetime contract with the world’s best boss! Again, Carly from Elizabeth Victoria Weddings was on hand to make sure everything was running smoothly, and the huge teepee was looking spectacular for their wedding breakfast and speeches. From the fairy lights and draped foliage to the glittering disco ball, it was an EPIC night!
Funk and Soul band, Groove Nation pushed the party to the max, with over 200 people on a packed dancefloor enjoying incredible performances all night long. Phoebe and Tom were carried on their guests' shoulders, celebrating long into the evening at the heart of their incredible party!
I love to capture the madness of the dancefloor, with all the moves, hugs, drinks, and laughs – and I was totally buried in fun at this one! From start to finish I was welcomed to the party with open arms, and I had a brilliant day surrounded by Phoebe and Tom’s friends and family.
If you are planning your wedding in Hertfordshire, I’d love to hear about your plans. Whether you are checking in to a country estate for the weekend, partying at the family home, or even heading abroad, I can capture the magic in my signature style. I’ve photographed weddings from Capesthorne Hall in Cheshire to the Lake District, Alicante, Tuscany and beyond! Get in touch to check my availability and we can chat about your day.