NATASHA & PIERS
It’s always fun to get to share in someone’s wedding day, but it’s even more so when I already know the people getting married. Shooting at the wedding of Natasha and Piers, I had the joy of being among people who were already familiar to me – because I had previously documented Natasha’s brother’s wedding a few years ago! It’s great to get referrals from happy customers, and I was definitely happy to say yes to the chance of playing wedding photographer at Cliveden House in Berkshire.
I worked with fellow documentary wedding photographer Mona Ali and videographer Confetti and Silk for this one. The grandiosity of the venue certainly required no fewer than three people. Not only was this 5-star National Trust hotel where Meghan Markle got ready for her own wedding, but the venue is also a TV star, currently featured on a Very British Country House on Channel 4.
Needless to say, it was an exciting place to spend the day! Natasha got ready in the same room that Meghan Markle used, the Lady Astor Suite. The bridal party had a giggle getting ready in matching nightshirts before they got dressed – a couture Angelina Colorusso dress for Natasha and custom gowns for the bridesmaids. Jo Cable took care of hair and makeup, and was recommended by Cliveden House. The groom Piers prepared for the day in the Spring Cottage, a beautiful three-bedroom cottage with timeless decor, with his best man – his dad.
Natasha says her dream was to be married at 30 – and she just about managed it, with her 31st birthday the very day after her wedding!
Everything at Cliveden House was elaborately planned, and beautifully organised by events coordinator Lydia. The room set up for the ceremony was stunning with its dark wooden panels, warm lighting and rustic but sophisticated decoration, with flowers and design by Blomster. The house and the stunning grounds were perfect for capturing the excitement of the day, and the happiness of the newly married couple. It was a cold but dry day, so we were able to make the most the exterior of the hotel, as well as the grand rooms.
One of the reasons Natasha and Piers chose the venue was for its friendliness to dogs, and it was great to have three pooches running around during the day – including Natasha’s Boston terrier Maddie, a cockapoo and a sheltie. All the dogs got to be part of the festivities, and of course feature in the photos.
After food and speeches, there was music and dancing, with music from singer Andy Wilsher and DJ Chris. With a large dance floor and some colourful confetti, it was a lot of fun to capture everyone enjoying themselves. Cliveden House is full of incredible spaces, and there was even cake cutting at the bottom of their grand staircase.
Documenting Natasha and Piers enjoying their special day at Cliveden House was a fantastic opportunity, and it’s definitely a venue I’d like to visit again.
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