Between getting ready at a stylish local farmhouse, an elegant church ceremony in full military regalia, informal drinks and canapes on the pretty parterre, and a relaxed marquee dinner dance … Rachael and Adam’s military wedding was traditional and relaxed in equal measure.
Getting ready in comfort and style
Rachael, her parents, and her bridesmaids got ready at Stamford Farm House which is a relaxed holiday rental property. I’d never considered an Air BnB or holiday let as a getting-ready location before, but I became an immediate advocate when I stepped inside! It has all the benefits of being at home – without any of the downsides of being at home! I could lament all day but two things worked particularly well. First, the banquet-style dining table was converted into a hair and makeup station, which contained the clutter and created a cosy atmosphere with everyone together. And secondly, Rachael had her own room to get dressed in peaceful, tidy surroundings. Ok, a third thing: There was plenty of parking for a gazillion cars, too. Maybe not the most exciting feature but it made a world of logistical difference.
A military wedding in Rutland
Adam and his best man wore their formal uniforms for the ceremony at St Peter and St Paul’s Church in Exton, before changing into more relaxed (and less toasty) lounge suits for the reception at Exton Park. They looked incredibly smart and all the guests loved seeing them suited and booted – and sworded. And there’s certainly something a bit fairytale-like about military uniforms at church weddings!
And yes, if you’re a regular follower of my work you might recognise this church from Sam and Pete’s wedding. It was nice to be back and reminisce with the vicar.
As the guests left the church and lined up outside the back door ready to throw confetti, we did a handful of posed portraits at the front door. Confetti-chaos ensued and then Rachael and Adam led their guests across the field to their reception on the parterre.
There always seems to be a blue sky when I’m photographing weddings here (just call me a good luck charm) and the sun lasted into the evening. So after their speeches, we snuck out for five minutes to capture some romantic golden hour photos, and we happily caught the last glow of the evening sun as it dipped behind the dovecote and tree line.
Time to enjoy your day, your way
Rachael and Adam’s biggest priority – apart from getting married – was to spend as much time as possible with their guests. So my signature low-key and hands-off approach was a good match for them.
They wisely kept their formal group photos short and sweet and we fitted their couple portraits into ‘transitional’ parts of the day, so they didn’t miss a thing. Posed portraits don’t have to take a long time – I’ve spent 15 years honing my skills to keep these a quick – but fun – part of the day. It really only takes two or three five-minute sessions to create a mix of portraits in a variety of locations.
Planning a military wedding in Rutland?
Want a relaxed wedding photographer to go with it?
I’d love to join you! Just get in touch to check my availability and I’ll get back to you faster than you can say “Forward as one!”. Not really, but I won’t hang around either!
Still venue hunting?
Check out some of my fave Rutland wedding venues to soak up the scenery from your sofa.
