How lucky did I feel to photograph Lexy and Paul’s Allington Castle wedding! Not only were they a brilliant couple to work with but they also chose to get married in what must be one of Kent’s most beautiful venues, what a little gem this place is! With a setting as romantic as this all we needed was a beautiful day and that wish was granted with the sun shinning all day.
I started my day with Lexy and her bridesmaids at The Hilton Hotel photographing the getting ready stages of the wedding which included several gifts from Paul. He had organised me to put together an album of photos of them and their little boy Hugo which I thought was a great gift, but I think he surpassed himself with the converse trainers in white and silver sparkles with Mrs Allen and the wedding date on!
The Great Hall was the setting for the ceremony and looked spectacular with its stone walls, huge tapestries and gorgeous array of flowers. I love a bit of history and this room was where Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn dined with Sir Thomas Wyatt around 1530 apparently, it’s not difficult to imagine the scene even today. Lexy and Paul couldn’t have looked happier together and as they made their way outside their guests were organised by the wonderful toastmaster for the confetti throwing which took place on the castle bridge.
Drinks in hand it was then time to mingle and soak up the atmosphere of the day with their family and friends giving me time to take some candid wedding photographs of everyone before the requested group shots.
Couples having their wedding here also have access to the amazing Italian Gardens which is where Lexy and Paul had some of their couple photographs taken, and in all seriousness, as a Kent wedding photographer this venue is a dream, I could have spent hours photographing them around the grounds! Obviously though the day is about the couple and not me so it’s important that they enjoy the process and not feel that they are away from their guests for too long.
Opting for a nominated guest at each table to carve the meat during the wedding breakfast added an extra element of fun and an opportunity for me to take some slightly different photos as well which I always enjoy. With the speeches came the shot of Jaegermeister for every guest although I’m sure some probably passed on that, but it seemed to be pretty popular for many!
With it being a warm night many people were still enjoying the evening outside when I left but I’m sure the dancing got going a little more later on once the Jaegermeister took effect!
If you’d like to see more of my wedding photography please take a look at other blog posts from Kent Castle Weddings and please do get in touch to check my availability and discuss your wedding photography via the Contact Page or directly at helenbatt@yahoo.co.uk