Lucy’s first contact with me was more direct than most. She picked up the phone and called me directly to speak to me – how refreshing! She explained that she’d been onto Google, typed in ‘Shrigley Hall Wedding Photographer’, found my website, looked through a couple of my Shrigley Hall wedding blog posts and decided that she wanted to talk straight away instead of sending an email or filling in my website form. I love talking to people! Lucy shared her plans and had a list of questions that I answered straight away, meaning that within 10-15 minutes, she made a booking with me and we planned ahead for a pre-wedding meeting.
Shrigley Hall Wedding Photographer
We had our pre-wedding meeting at Shrigley Hall. I find it is often easier to meet at a venue where photographic ideas can be visualised during a walk and talk. I met with Lucy, but where was her groom-to-be? He was in Mexico! It turns out that the man Lucy was marrying was Mexican and therefore half of the congregation would be travelling some 5,500 miles, 14+ hours to be present at their special day together. Not to mention that some of the guests would be only Spanish speaking. Exciting times!
Lucy also wasn’t sure how to pose if required for photographs, so we found a large mirror and I played ‘groom’ while we posed together – this was quite funny as we were stood in the middle of a busy bar! The wedding day arrived and I sent Rick to photograph the groom prep for Edel who is a lovely chap, training to be a doctor. He and his brothers were both relaxed which allowed Rick to grab some classy portraits. Lucy had some early-day nerves which required me to step back for a period, but she soon relaxed and embraced the day. The wedding ceremony took place at the beautiful St. Gregory’s RC Church in Bollington, conducted by Fr. Martin, then over to Shrigley Hall for the wedding breakfast and evening celebrations.
The Shrigley Hall celebrations were in the hands of Eamonn, the hospitality manager. He stands out as one of those guys who always goes above and beyond, every time I see him at a wedding. Nothing ever seems to be a problem, even if the day’s timetable is slipping for example. He even stood in as a ‘model’ while I set up my lights for a lit portrait – thank you Eamonn.
The entertainment came in the form of an Elvis tribute who brought fun, laughter and engagement from the guests during his act. Edel delivered his wedding speech in English, while the father of the bride delivered his speech in Spanish – I thought that was a lovely touch to bond the two families together. We were treated to a live band for the evening celebrations which ensured that the dancefloor was filled throughout the night. Plenty going on, plenty of challenges, but boy I love my job!
If you are getting married and looking for a Shrigley Hall wedding photographer, please don’t hesitate to drop me a message…
