Jessica and Russell’s July wedding at Beaconside House in Bideford was possibly the sunniest and hottest wedding I’ve ever photographed! Beaconside was the perfect venue for it, with an outdoor ceremony and even a pool to cool down in, it really felt like a destination wedding.

Even at 10am the sunlight was direct and harsh. I used this contrasting light and shadow to capture some beautiful shots during the morning’s preparations.

The living room was the perfect space for me to guide a “first look” with Jessica and her bridal party. The genuine reactions of her closest people, with her bridesmaids beaming with excitement and her mum and brother looking proud, was already one of my favourite moments of the day. After a few portraits it was time to get married!

The ceremony was beautifully led by Ceremonies by Rebecca, with Maggio Strings playing music as Jessica walked down the aisle. Set in the garden, it combined the sophistication of a black tie celebration with the warmth of a hand-fasting. Jessica and Russell read their vows to each other and kissed under the shade of an oak tree. Joined by their two daughters, they walked back up the aisle and out of the house into a flurry of confetti. The flowers by Bluejen Florist added the perfect touch throughout both the ceremony and later in the reception.

At this point in the day, the temperature peaked at 33 degrees! While most guests went to the bar for a cold beverage, their closest guests stayed close by for the formal photos. Knowing everyone needed a cool drink in the shade I tried to get these done as smoothly as possible while still keeping it light and relaxed.

After a sunny cocktail hour I sneaked away with the newlyweds for a fun, relaxed couples shoot. Fittingly they brought sunglasses along. With the heat and sun at its peak, I took them straight into some shady spots around the grounds at Beaconside.

The happy couple then made their entrance into their beautifully decorated wedding reception hall. Jessica and Russell did an amazing job at keeping guests entertained. Speeches were interactive, and included a game of Mr and Mrs, a multi-media presentation, football shirt photos, and lots of laughing and crying! Every table even had their own wedding cake to cut, all baked by Mollie Makes!

The sun dipped lower and the temperature cooled. As guests enjoyed more cocktails outside, this was a great opportunity for candid shots, and some casual group photos whenever people asked. One of the cutest moments I’ve witnessed this year was when the children hosted a pretend wedding at the alter! So it turns out I actually photographed two weddings in one!

With the sunlight finally soft and golden, we were able to get some more beautiful couples shots on the lawn outside, and also in front of Beaconside House itself.

I’m always keen to incorporate a couple’s hobbies and interests. So, knowing Jessica was a cheerleading instructor, I asked if theres any way we could include that in some photos. She decided to get her cheerleading squad to lift Russell, while the groomsmen lifted Jessica. Unsurprisingly, the girls were a lot better at it than the boys!

To round off the golden hour photos, Jessica did a bouquet toss, which is always such a fun moment! It’s one of those traditions that often gets overlooked, but I think it’s one of the most underrated. Even if you’re not into the meaning behind it, I’d encourage every bride to consider it. It’s lighthearted, gets everyone involved, and always makes for brilliant photos.

Finally it was time to party! An incredible first dance was followed by some fun entertainment by Candy Jam who kept the dance floor moving all night!

Thank you to Jess and Russell for letting me be there on your wedding day!

If you’re planning your own celebration, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to get in touch!