I first met James and Kaelyn on a wet and windy day on the Dorset coast for their pre-wedding shoot. Despite the wild weather, we had a great time, laughing and running in the sea. From that meeting, I knew their wedding would be full of fun and connection.

Luckily for their outdoor marquee wedding in Cornwall, the sun was shining. I joined them in their accommodation around 15 minutes from the venue, where they were getting ready for the day. After capturing some key moments here, I travelled over to the field where the celebrations would unfold.

Their ceremony took place overlooking the Atlantic Ocean near Padstow. You couldn’t ask for a more perfect backdrop. James walked down the aisle with his mum, followed by the bridal party. Then Kaelyn, holding a bouquet by Sown, walked with her dad. The ceremony, led by a close friend, felt incredibly personal, with music played by another friend, a ring warming, and some beautiful readings. After the vows, they walked back up the aisle through clouds of confetti before we moved straight into the group photos with the ocean as the backdrop.

Next came their couple portraits. Having met on an ocean research vessel working in marine conservation, it was important to them to have some wedding photos by the sea. Not the easiest request on a Saturday in Cornwall in the height of summer, but the week before I scouted the coastline for a quieter spot. Driving there with James and Kaelyn, after a bit of traffic and a little unplanned detour, we finally made it. And once we arrived, the effort was more than worth it. We were able to escape the summer crowds and capture some magical beach wedding portraits that I hope they’ll treasure forever.

Back at the marquee by Cornish Tent Co, it was time for drinks and games as the sun dipped lower. After some hilarious speeches, local and sustainable food was served by My Mum Makes, setting the tone for a relaxed and joyful evening.

During golden hour, James and Kaelyn had organised a Nos-Lowen, a Cornish-Celtic folk dance similar to a ceilidh. The mix of golden light and carefree dancing made these some of my favourite photos of the day, perfectly capturing the laughter, fun and connection between everyone.

We finished with a final couple shoot in the fields beside the marquee. James and Kaelyn changed into traditional Japanese wedding attire, giving these portraits a completely different feel to those on the beach. The very last photos of the day were of the two of them laughing together, wearing the red beanies they had knitted for each other.

If you’re planning a marquee or beach wedding in Cornwall and would like relaxed, natural photography, feel free to get in touch here.

Suppliers:
Photographer – Elliot Govier Photography
Florist – Sown In Cornwall
Catering – My Mum Makes
Marquee – Cornish Tent Co
PA – Cabin Fever
Pasties – Lavender Pastys