Something Special
Every once in a while I get to photograph a wedding that is not only beautiful, but also truly unique. When Sarah-Jane and Eugene booked me to photograph their wedding at Smeetham Hall Barn, I knew it would be something really special.
Sarah-Jane has an amazing eye for design and detail, and she really expressed this in her styling, inspired by her love of the 1930’s and 40’s.
A Perfect Venue
Originally built in the 16th Century, Smeetham Hall Barn sits in the beautiful grounds of Smeetham Hall. Two miles from Sudbury it really is one of the best barn style wedding venues in Essex and as a photographer its a delight to shoot at. This was my first time shooting a wedding at Smeetham Hall Barn, and I was excited to say the least.
The Good Fellas
Upon arriving at the Mill Hotel in Sudbury I made my way to Eugene’s room, where he was getting ready with the groomsmen and best man Jimmy.
The guys were just putting on their suits and Eugene looked the epitome of 1940’s style in his crushed black velvet suit with pink bow tie.
Sarah had also sent him a gift of an inscribed gold pocket watch which rounded off his ensemble perfectly.
A Sweet set of Wheels
Transport to the wedding venue was courtesy of a chauffeur driven Hillman Minx, which perfectly suited Sarah-Jane and her stunning bridesmaids. As it arrived they made their way to the rear of the barn to complete final preparations and quelle last minute nerves.
A Beautiful Dame..
Sarah-Jane looked incredible in her dress, which she had designed and made herself, along with several accessories that completed her 1930’/40’s vintage look. Her hair and make up, done by the talented Chelsea Lenton, were also perfect and all combined to make Sarah-Jane look truly beautiful.
After the ceremony we went outside in to the glorious Suffolk sunshine. Here we took some lovely group shots mixing traditional and modern posing, and as always we had some laughs along the way. The dress code was black and white, and everyone really made an effort to look their best. They also made my job easy by being really friendly and laid back, a real pleasure to work with.
Next came a couple portrait session with Sarah-Jane and Eugene. I took them in to the grounds of Smeetham Hall to capture some soft and natural romantic shots, and some more posed, contemporary style images.
40’s style
The wedding breakfast was held in the main barn and the table decoration and attention to detail was amazing. Photographs of 30’and 40’s screen icons adorned the table cloth along with pink butterflies and roses, vintage teacups, and personalised menus and wine.
A Beautiful First Dance
After some heart felt and emotional speeches the tables were cleared away and the evening guests began to arrive. This led to the cutting of the cake, followed by an enchanting first dance to John Legends “All of Me”. It was a beautiful moment that really captured the love that Sarah-Jane and Eugene have for each other, and the perfect expression of everything that the day had been.
Thanks to Mr and Mrs Hector for letting me part of your wonderfully unique wedding. You truly make a stunning couple and I wish you every happiness in the world.
Are you Getting Married at Smeetham Hall Barn?
If you are getting married at Smeetham Hall Barn and are looking for a wedding photographer, please give me a call on 07976 741 248 or complete my enquiry form.
And of course, if you’re getting married elsewhere, I’d love to hear from you too. I cover weddings throughout the UK and beyond and would love to be a part of yours.
