Exton Park Wedding
Love and laughter at an Exton Park Wedding.
When Chris and Danielle first got in touch with me about their marquee wedding in Exton Park, Rutland, I was so excited! They were planning a really relaxed wedding with a church ceremony, live music and even a great British bake-off. Chris and Danielle are some of the most genuine and kind people I know and I couldn’t wait to shoot their wedding! It was a fantastic day and also ended up being an Exton Park wedding that was featured in the Rutland Pride magazine.
Bridal prep
I began the morning at Barnsdale Hall hotel in Rutland, where the bride, her family and friends were getting ready together. It was so much fun because everyone was in such a good mood. The girls were doing their own makeup, dancing around, taking selfies and having a tipple. I had Emma Ryan second shooting for me and capture Chris getting ready at his mum's place with his best man. They ventured to the local pub across the road from Exton Park for a bit of dutch courage.
Getting hitched
The wedding took place at St Peter and St Paul’s church on the Exton estate. A beautiful church set amongst the most stunning grounds. It was chosen as it was a place close to Chris' heart. The wedding ceremony was far from a traditional church ceremony, far more relaxed and incredibly personal. Danielle is an actress and an amazing stage performer. Music is a big part of her life, knowing this, the vicar had written a personal and very funny ceremony. The service was littered with song lyrics - pure genius! The theme of the ceremony was 'All you need is love' which everyone sang during the service with the live guitarist. Chris let his emotions show which set me off - many a photo was taken amongst me sniffing and holding back my tears.
After saying 'I do' they were showered with confetti and then everyone walked the short walk down from the church to the lawn drinks reception, which was overlooked by the majestic Exton Hall. Chris and Danielle were driven by Danielle's father in a very swish vintage car to the Exton Estate. Danielle's dad owns Mr Vintage Cars, so it was only natural to do so - and emotional! He had driven many a bride but never his own child and so it's a moment they will both treasure forever.
After the ceremony
The wedding reception took place in a pretty marquee complete with windows that overlooked the whole of the Exton Estate. Well worth having those windows as the views were stunning. The marquee was decorated with flowers and romantic rustic touches. The table names were named after classic cars. It was so wonderfully personalised.
It was a warm day, which was perfect for photos. While the guests drank Pimms, the couple mingled and laughed with their friends. My favourite photo from the afternoon was the bouquet toss and the beer run with the boys! The wedding crowd were up for a laugh which made for great photos.
The Speeches
The speeches were absolutely awesome. Funny from start to finish!! My cheeks were aching from laughter. There were speeches from the bride's parents, the groom and the best man. None of them disappointed. Hands down, some of the best speeches I have heard. Just honest with bags of friendly banter. The meal itself was absolutely amazing! A full-on posh table buffet spread. Chris & Danielle took good care of me and treated me like a guest, I was honoured they had a place of me, my second photographer and videography team. I highly recommend the caterers!
The PARTAAAY
After the meal, the couple and I popped out to get some sunset photos on the grounds before heading back to kick start the first dance. The DJ was a huge hit. EVERYBODY hit the dance floor which made my day as it's my favourite bit of the day to capture. Danielle and her dad even had a dance-off to MC hammer which everyone loved!
The Great British Bake-off
Then it was time to judge their great British bake-off, which went down a storm. Yes, this wedding featured a GBBO! Chris & Danielle asked the guests to get involved and gift a baked item. The guests did not disappoint. There was a huge table full of baked goods both savoury and sweet. This made a perfect dessert treat and buffet idea for the evening dance-off. I may or may not have danced with a HUGE slice of cake on the dance floor!
The Couple
Chris and Danielle met me at a wedding fayre about a year before their day. They booked me the very day we met, we absolutely hit it off and fast became friends after learning we are practically neighbours. We have stayed friends since then to this very day! Chris has danced in my front garden and Danielle keeps me on my toes (she is my P.T!).
Their wedding planning advice
They say if you’re planning a wedding: "Ask family and friends for help and don’t break the bank trying to show off to anyone! Be realistic with your numbers and enjoy the food that you are paying for!" When asked why they chose me they simply said: "Because you're da bomb!! We both felt 100% comfortable with you and you captured the day to perfection. You have got such a vibrant personality and we feel we have made a friend for life!”
Dream team:
Venue: Exton Park // Marquee: Events & Tents // Dress: Bridal Reloved Leicester // Bridesmaid dresses: Rewritten // Suit: Debenhams // Flowers: Niche Flowers // Catering: Fiona Herbert Catering // Wedding Car: Mr Vintage Wedding cars
Rutland Pride magazine contacted me asking me if they could feature this Exton Park wedding and I didn't think twice. It was amazing to see Chris and Danielle’s Rutland wedding printed in a well-read Rutland magazine. Their wedding used all local Rutland and Leicestershire wedding suppliers. If you’re looking for a documentary Rutland wedding photographer to capture the love and laughter of your wedding then do get in touch to check my availability.
Gina xoxo
