We shipped off a framed print to our previous portrait clients, Leigh and Doug last week. We were so pleased with the results and how this design came together we took some time to snap some shots of it before it was bundled away to them.

We’re so happy with the build quality of these frames it seemed silly not to show them off. Although we’ve had some examples of our framed prints in the past we’ve never really photographed the little details that show how just how well these frames are put together. That sounds a bit dull, but if you’re going to be spending money to put some prints up on your wall we think it’s important to know the frame is going to stand the test of time.

We can design and order a wide selection of mounted prints and frames in lots of different shapes and sizes. In total, there are 33 different frame styles to choose from, and there should be a style to suit both your photographs and your home with a range of different coloured metals and wood options available.

We particularly loved how this one came together with its clean and elegant Oak Frame, and we worked together to decide on double mount board in Antique White and Ivory to compliment Leigh and Doug’s chosen images…

It makes us so sad when photos are left on disk or tucked away in a folder on a computer’s hard drive. We don’t doubt the intention to do something with them is always there, but it’s one of those things that  ends up waiting for “another time”. We’ll put our hands up and say we’re guilty of this too. However, over the past year we’ve made lots more effort to get shots up around our home, or to make little keepsake albums. It’s amazing how we’re much more inclined to look at them.

We want you to be able to put your pictures in frames without the hassle of ordering. We also want you to be able to see your shots professionally mounted so they make a real statement when you hang them up. Because of this we’re going to be throwing in this Print Portfolio Box for all weddings after November 2011, regardless of whether you’ve booked a Full Day or a Half Day. The DVD of all your shots can then be tucked up safely inside.

Our first Portfolio Box came this afternoon and we can’t wait to show people! It’s small enough to fit onto a shelf without being cumbersome, but measuring 10″x8″ it feels very special. Open up the cushioned lid and you’ll find fifteen different mounts inside, each showcasing up to three different lustre prints (up to 45 images in total).

Framing some of your favourite shots from your wedding will be a doddle. And, with so much choice, you can swap them around in a frame whenever you fancy a change of scene.

Previous couples who like the look of these boxes are very welcome to get in touch to find out more about pricing. Alternatively, if you’re a new customer you can also order duplicate boxes if you want a neat little gift to give to your parents, Bridesmaids or Best Man.

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

Lisa and Ian’s custom guestbook arrived back from the printers this weekend and we’re really happy with how everything turned out. Designing for a guestbook is a little trickier than for a wedding album as we need to bear in mind the number of guests that will be attending the day. This means setting aside enough (but not too much) white space so the book looks full and happy once everyone’s penned in their best wishes. I think we’ve got it about right.

As Lisa and Ian chose to hire us for a dedicated Engagement Shoot (a preview of some our favourites from their shoot at Hengistbury Head in Dorset can be viewed here) they get this 12″x12″, hard-wearing coffee table book thrown in. We can’t wait to see how the guests react to it on the day!