A Very French Affair, Vintage Car, Wine Ritual,
Flash Mobs and Lightning.
Have you ever wondered how a French wedding might differ to a UK wedding? This blog could give you an idea.
The day was expertly organised by wedding planner Marjorie Mariage. Amber is bilingual (English & French) so a perfect option for you for integrating French and UK customs into your wedding in France.
We had met Sophie, Thomas and their little girl the year before when we did their pre-wedding shoot. This is something we always try do depending on your availability and location, for example when you visit your venue. Gives you an idea of how we work and some images to review for style of editing.
On our arrival at the family home where Sophie was getting ready, we made time to meet all the family members including Mum, Dad and siblings. We really make it our business to get to know your VIPs – memorising names en route to your wedding and being sure to record those special moments with those you love!
After taking venue plus aerial shots using the drone, Chris went off to see Thomas who was getting ready just down the road with his groomsmen.
Jo stayed with Sophie and her family capturing candid moments of everyone getting ready and of course the dress, veil and details.
Sophie and Thomas were keen to have more natural moments of the day rather than being too staged or formal. Most of you say that when we ask about your expectations of your photographs. Though we always recommend that you have at least a few formal group photos as you cannot go back and repeat it. Well, you can but that could be a little expensive!
The gorgeous bridal bouquet, wrist corsages, buttonholes and stunning cream and pink flowers at the church and reception were created by Evenements Fleurs
After a few bridal portraits in the garden, Sophie’s transport – a beautiful vintage Peugeot 308 – arrived to take her & Dad to church. We also took a few couple portraits with the car when Sophie & Thomas returned to their reception.
This church has a balcony, and sharing the space with Elora the videographer for the event, it presented a nice opportunity to take pictures from above and from the ground. Given that we are two photographers we can be in two places at once and so get your reactions from all angles.
With the service, readings, signing of the register and songs of praise all complete the guests filed out to welcome the happy couple and head for the first of two drinks receptions. In the village just a short walk from the church, champagne and canapés and the second back at the reception venue.
While the adults were being entertained, the children had their own fun. Damir and his colleague from Ô’Event did an amazing job engaging the children of various ages. They also prepared a song/dance to present to Sophie & Thomas and all the guests at the evening reception – more on that later.
Back at the adult’s club (!) Samanify were in full flow. Looking for entertainment you won’t go wrong booking this amazing duo – they always have your guests up singing and dancing.
The family also provided lots of entertainment – much of it a surprise to Sophie and Thomas, including a wine pouring ceremony accompanied by song and a flash mob.
Just before 9pm the couple made their entrance for dinner, to the waving of napkins – a very French tradition. Thankfully dinner was planned under a huge marquee providing shelter from the storms that passed overhead.
In between courses there were several speeches and video presentations, and a key highlight was the presentation by the children. You would not be disappointed booking Ô’Event the youngsters all had an amazing time.
Lucas DJ from Mixnight did a great job with the sound and vision during the speeches and video surprises. He filled the dance floor with great tunes straight after Sophie and Thomas opened the ball (as they call it in France) – with their first dance which was at Midnight! Yes, the party was planned to go on till the early hours. Our job done, we left them in full flow at 1am.
An amazing day, our pleasure to be present and of course a great opportunity to practice our French.
Félicitations Sophie et Thomas. Merci à toute la famille et tous les fournisseurs pour une belle journée.