Last Saturday we got our first taste of Christchurch Priory and then made our back along the East Cliff in Bournemouth for the wedding of Sam and James.

Things kicked off with me making my way to Sam’s parents in Parkstone for the bridal preps. All was pretty calm and relaxed with the usual hair and make-up and everything was all very organised.

Introducing the Bride…

And her bridesmaids who busied themselves getting ready.

Things were all going swimmingly until one of the bridesmaid’s zips broke on her dress (with 20 minutes until departure). All credit to Sam, all the girls and her parents they all kept very level-headed and managed to get hold of the dressmaker and arrange a very tight scheduled rendez-vous.

With the bridesmaids dealing with zip issues Sam got on with the preps and finished getting ready. Then it was a quick drive over to Christchurch for the ceremony.

Meanwhile, Ian met with James, the Groom at the Priory for prep shots.

James hearts Matt.

The Bridal car was absolutely huge. James had this particular model in mind and managed to track one down (if my memory serves me right it was a Rolls Royce Phantom). That chauffeur had driven down all the way from Birmingham that morning!

Christchurch Priory is breathtakingly massive. Sam had a very long aisle walk to contend with. I’m pleased to say all the bridesmaids were in attendance, fully-clothed and ready to enjoy the day.

The Rev. was the loveliest Clergyman we have ever met. With a distinct Texan accent he had a very relaxed and modern approach to things. He was also very up for us taking lots of photos from the front. As soon as I saw the flash of his Casio calculator watch peaking out from the sleeve of his robe I knew we were going to get along just fine.

Sam and James built up quite a crowd of onlookers (Christchurch Priory is near a busy high street and it was prime-time Saturday shopping time). A bit difficult though when you’re trying to round up folks for group shots and have no idea whether they’re part of the wedding or not. Hopefully, as we did a role call for each shot we haven’t got any randoms posing as distant Aunties.

Group shots done, the guests made their way over to the Cumberland Hotel. Meanwhile, we made use of the Priory Grounds and the Mill.

Arriving at The Cumberland.

The reception took place in the Oceana room with its LED-lit dome.

After speeches we had time for more couple shots. Sam and James really wanted to go down to the beach and it was a lovely evening for it.

The party was continuing when we made our way back to the hotel for the evening reception.

Loads more evening guests packed into the Oceana for the First Dance.

After a little while Sam and James invited their daughter onto the dance floor to join in with the dance. It was a lovely moment.

When everyone started tucking into the buffet we left them to dance their night away.

With congratulations and best wishes to Sam and James! x