This was my first visit to The Gardens Yalding wedding venue and being there to photograph Debbie and Martins big day couldn’t have been a better introduction. After meeting them both at my studio prior to them booking me and then for the pre wedding photoshoot I had already had a glimpse of their personalities and how they felt about being photographed so I was really looking forward to the day!
Arriving at the venue I went up to find Debbie, who along with her daughter, was in the process of having her hair and make up done. There was a little discussion about what the weather was going to do as it was a little unsettled, but the forecast was for the sun to come out so the outside ceremony was still to be going ahead.
Taking a walk around the venue I soon understood why it’s called ‘The Gardens’ as they are stunning and a photographers dream. With the gazebo centred among the surrounding 12 acres and the tipis adjoining the main building this venue provides everything needed for a wedding at any time of year.
As guests started to arrive I began to get a feel for this wedding and there were plenty of ‘characters’, and I mean that in the best sense of the word!. Laughter and great senses of humour, which appealed to my own, were in abundance and I can honestly say I felt like I was among friends.
Martin and Debbie strike me as people who enjoy life and live it to the fullest, valuing spending time with each other and also their family and friends, who clearly likewise feel the same about them. This was no more apparent than during the heartfelt and emotional speeches which brought both tears and laughter to everyone in the room. Debbie and Martin have been through some tough times together but on their wedding day you could see how close that had brought them and how much they truly love and care for one another.
Photographing someones wedding you become witness to so many special moments and this wedding had them in spades. Debbie’s father couldn’t have been prouder walking her down the aisle and Martin struggled to hold back his tears on seeing her for the first time. Martins two sons escorting his mum down the aisle and the readings during the ceremony by Debbie’s children were all elements that made their wedding day so special to them.
I say it all the time but I really love my job and it’s because I see human interaction at it’s best!
If you’d like to check if I’m available to photograph your wedding at the Gardens or elsewhere in Kent and beyond please do drop me an email via the Contact form or give me a call on 07754 705679.