Looking back through 2022 it's been a pretty crazy year, I have been a
wedding photographer for 12 years now and this year has been one of our favourites so far, Gemma & Michael's big day was definitely one of them.
So I didn't get to meet this amazing couple before their big day due to covid and the time of booking, but just speaking to them on the phone for our phone meeting I knew it would be an amazing day and we would get along great and I wasn't wrong!
I was super excited to photograph their wedding , not only were their house bunnies coming down the aisle with them but they were having lawn games, a drag queen and more.
Gemma & Michael's big day started on a sunny day in July, I arrived at Ferraris country house and hotel nice and early, Gemma and her bridesmaids were getting ready in the nearby farm house and were all giddy for the day ahead, Gemma was having her make up done and excited for the day ahead.
She was soon to be marrying her dream man.
We went upstairs to a surprise that Gemma had for her mum, it was a hand written piece of material from her late grandad sewn into the dress, there were tears all round (including from me!) it was such an emotional moment. It was soon time to get the dresses on and head over to the hotel.
Whilst I was capturing the morning prep, Tony was with the boys, groom prep was over in the hotel and I think the boys were even more nervous than the girls.
The ceremony took place in the Dovecote at the back of the hotel and its a gorgeous intimate little building, just just perfect for a summer wedding.
Gemma, the bridesmaids, the bunnies and a very cute flower girl whippet made their way down the aisle and the ceremony began. It was such an emotional ceremony but no one was prepared for grandads reading that even had the registrars in tears.
The guests were given drinks after the ceremony, but it soon started to rain so off we went inside until it passed over.
We went outside once the rain had passed and Gemma & Michael's guests were a dream to photograph, they were so welcoming and friendly and really made us feel like a part of the day.
Following the family photos Gemma & Michael enjoyed time with the people they love the most, A barbeque was on the menu as well as some other delicious treats which I was welcome to eat with the guests and I was so looked after, they really are so thoughtful & considerate.
Then the evening is when the real party started. The couple had booked Traya buns, a drag queen DJ from Manchester and she was amazing, she had everyone in stitches as well as up and dancing on the dancefloor. I really wanted to ditch the cameras and jump right in there on the dance floor.
The love story
Gemma & Michael met whilst Gemma was studying at Edge hill university through mutual friends. Michael won her over with many romantic gestures but love came when Michael met Gemma with some roses and a subway, the prince charming of every girls dreams!
The Dress
Gemma's stunning dress was a stunning sleeveless V neck dress, that fitted her like a glove, she looked stunning in it. The amazing Bridal Coutoure Italia then fitted the secret perfect little touch, her late grandads words so he was with her every step of the way down the aisle.
Perfectly matched with her gorgeous lace shoes, simple yet elegant.
The boys suits were provided by slaters.
The venue – Ferrari’s country house wedding hotel
Gemma & Michael chose Ferraris country house for its pretty exterior, the beautiful gardens as well as being perfectly located for all their family and friends. They said that the staff were so welcoming and friendly and would highly recommend the venue.
Ferrari’s Country House Wedding Hotel is located near Preston in Lancashire. Nestled in the little village of Thornley in the stunning Ribble Valley.
Ferrari’s Country House Hotel is a true family run business.
Suppliers - who made their day so special ?
Victoria Danson of Victoria Louise Hair was her hair & make-up artist, She was fantastic from start to finish, their makeup lasted all day without needing any top ups. I could not recommend her enough
Gemma's mum was in charge of the flowers and she did a grand job, they were perfect.
Gemmas cousin made her amazing cake and all those fantastic cupcakes to go with it. It was just what they wanted, something fun just like them,
Traya Buns was the evening entertainment - everyone loved her! Everyone was up and enjoying themselves, it really was a laugh a minute with her quick wit and jokes.
The theme for their wedding day was a relaxed party feel, they really just wanted to celebrate with those that meant the most to them, Have a pint & have a dance. What more could you possibly want.
Thank you so much to Gemma & Michael for choosing me to capture your amazing day.
Check out some images below of how their day went & I wish you both the best!
If you’re planning a wedding at Ferraris lodge or anywhere else in the Northwest then get in touch via my contact page , or see some more of my work on my gallery on the home page.
