Maddie & Ali – Betchworth Garden Wedding

“We’ve looked through the photos several more times since that first look, and they are absolutely wonderful. I discover new favourites each time I look at them. Going through them with family was like going through the day all over again, and there were so many laughters and happy memories. Your candid shots have captured so much real emotion and joy and incredible details which we now won’t ever forget thanks to the photos. We’re so happy you were our wedding photographer and would have picked you again a thousand times”

Betchworth Garden Wedding

Oh Maddie & Ali. Where to begin with these two and their stunning Betchworth garden wedding. I was fortunate to meet them at a beautiful wedding I captured five years ago and knowing they chose me based on their friend’s recommendations was always a lovely feeling. We had a fun little pre-wedding shoot up in London in the absolute scorching heat (I am not sure I’ve ever been quite so sweaty!) and that was the day I fell in love with them. Every so often I get to meet people who I hope will remain in my life forever in some format. These two absolutely fall into that category. They chose my favourite style of wedding, a beautiful countryside church followed by a back garden marquee. I just love weddings held at home, they are ALWAYS so special, everyone feels relaxed, seeing the hard work on the gardening during the months leading up, and that feeling of ‘home’ surrounded by your loved ones. I am very fortunate that 75% of my weddings are of this style, which is why I’ll never stop sharing them, as they are so unique and each tell their own special story.

Maddie chose to rent a beautiful house closeby to get ready in with her sister and her Mum and Dad. Although it wasn’t their family home, it did remind me just how much more relaxing this form of prep is, outside of a hotel room. I was working alongside one of my favourite suppliers, Carolanne Armstrong, who did my make up for my own wedding, just a mere week prior to Maddie & Ali’s day! I must say it felt strange coming back to work a week after our day, but it was actually so lovely to be back amongst the same love and happiness felt at my own. I truly felt at home around both Maddie and Ali’s families and feel so honoured to be have been involved. They were married at the prettiest St Michael’s Church in Betchworth, and continued their celebrations at Ali’s family home down the road. Maddie is Swedish, and warned me there may be a few ‘ad-hoc’ speeches made, as is tradition. I am not quite sure I’ve ever yo-yoed so much during a wedding breakfast! :D But what was so touching was how heartfelt each offering was. Maddie said not to capture everyone – but how could I not, there were bespoke songs, gorgeous kiddies performing, and many, many happy tears! I’ve never experienced anything like it and I came away from their day with a new sense of fascination by how other cultures celebrate. And how much I love it when cultures mix. It was a wonderful few hours and I couldn’t help smile and sing along with all their guests. The evening drew near and it was time to party. I LOVE photographing dance-floors, and theirs didn’t disappoint, some brilliant moves made! I said my goodbyes after a sunny, warm and just SO happy a day. Maddie and Ali, thank you from the bottom of my heart for asking me to capture such an important day in your life. It was my absolute privilege and I look forward to when our paths cross again…lots of love, here are a few of my favourites from your wonderful day! xx