We’re right in the depths of winter so how about a spring wedding at Manor by the Lake to lift your spirits…
We’re right in the middle of winter here in the UK and its bitterly cold as I type this. I am snuggled up with a coffee at the kitchen table typing this. I’ve gone all hygge!
Even though its cold outside the first green shoots of spring are already starting to show themselves. I’ve seen brave little snow drops and the leaves of the first daffodils show their pretty green shoots! Spring is definitely on its way and I can’t wait!
So if you are planning a spring wedding have a look at this absolute stunner at Manor by the Lake.
I met Christie and Alex about a year before their wedding day. The planning process with my couples is something I really enjoy. I love to hear all of the updates as their plans progress. And then the magical day itself.
So without further ado, here is their Wedding Story… Enjoy!
The big day arrived and the weather wasn’t great! Dull and overcast. A bit drizzly – a typical spring day! So we headed on inside to the Bridal Suite where Christie was getting ready…
Inside it was a whole different story… Laughter and smiles brightened up the day and we forgot that the weather was having a ‘moment’!
Nikki’s Notes… I loved these little fluffy sliders that Christie and her bridesmaids wore on the morning of the wedding!
I love this image of Christie’s now Mother in Law lacing up the back of her wedding dress. Christie and her Mum in Law have such a lovely relationship and this was evident in the care and affection they showed for each other throughout the day.
The bridal bouquet and all of the floral elements of the day were created by the fabulous Lilyfee Floral Designs. Our thoughtful Bride had small cameos of her late Mother and Grandparents added to her bouquet. She carried them with her all day, close to her, and part of her day.
Alex and the Boys were meanwhile getting ready in the Rock Bar. This place is so cool with its rock star memorabilia and quirky additions.
Alex had chosen a tweed waistcoat in a sophisticated blue and grey to compliment his French navy suit. Accessorised with a vintage fob watch.
An emotional moment for Christie (above).
So in love…
Nikki’s Notes… Of course it was still raining outside and the gloominess seemed to seep into the Maximilian Room. With poor natural light and dark panelling (stunning but it soaks up the light) it would normally be a challenge to shoot into the light of the window. But this was no issue for us! My team and I always think ahead and carry small portable studio grade lights for this very reason.
We lit this window area of the Maximilian Room for group portraits. You’d never know we were in a fairly dark room!
And then we had a break in the clouds!
It was still drizzling a little and damp under foot so we made the most of the archways at Manor by the Lake and kept Christie and Alex in the dry!
I was thrilled to bits that this image (above) won a Bronze Bar from the Guild of Photographers!
Christie and Alex are steam engine enthusiasts and had this scale model on the top table! Keep scrolling down for the real deal…!
And then the clouds and the rain cleared…!
At about 17.00 the rain cleared off and we went out for more photographs to make the most of the gorgeous gardens at Manor by the Lake.
The real deal (above)! What an incredible treat Christie and Alex had arranged for their guests!
Nikki’s Notes… One thing I always do is keep a close eye on the weather forecast. This means that I can plan and reschedule the photography parts of the day as needs be. I’d noted the forecast rain a few days before and then worked closely with Christie and Alex to build time into the day. Working around the rain showers!
A second Bronze Bar from the Guild of Photographers for this image of Christie and Alex. I’m so glad I kept an eye on the forecast and built this time in. If I hadn’t this image wouldn’t have happened!
Nikki’s Notes… People often ask me why certain images get graded in certain ways in competitions. One thing to remember is that the Judges have no background information and are looking at this from a purely technical perspective. I asked why this image didn’t score higher. The answer was that the steam engine on the left hand side was considered distracting! But you know what? That’s OK! I shoot for my Clients and for their wedding day. If I happen to get an award as well that’s great but its not my driving force. To remove the steam engine means that it wouldn’t have represented their day. I’m totally happy with this image!
Wedding Photographer: Nikki at Nikki Kirk Photography
Flowers: Lilyfee Floral Designs
Hair & Make Up: Sandra Elizabeth
Wedding Dress: Grand Jour