Rowan & Alex got married in the beautiful Lake District on a warm late September day. I’ve known Rowan for a couple of years as we used to work together; when she got engaged I quietly hoped she might ask me photograph her wedding and needless to say I was over the moon when she did! Rowan opted for a beautiful dress by Andrea Hawkes, who are known for their gorgeously simplistic, modern styles. Their venue, Paddock barn set amongst incredible views, was rustic and cosy without being at all twee. Alex and his groomsmen wore a family tartan in brightly coloured ties, which looked great against the dark blue suits.
The couple got ready in an inn overlooking Cumbrian hills and there were blue skies from the get-go. Although separated, being on the same site meant I could spend time with both Rowan and Alex in the morning which I always enjoy and also means both sides have their story documented. Rowan and her bridesmaids did their own and each other’s make-up and a friend did Rowan’s hair – it all felt very relaxed. Meanwhile, Alex and his many groomsmen enjoyed lunch and a few pints in the pub garden.
Following the church ceremony, guests ambled a short way along the country road to Paddock Barn; a gorgeous little venue with the most incredible views, decked to perfection with greenery and lots of candles. The tables looked fantastic. On the menu were beef and veggie wellingtons served with lots of roasted veg. The wellingtons were shared in tables of 6 and I loved that each table had one chef’s hat and a great big knife placed on the designated ‘server’s’ place. Who would have this honour had clearly been thought through as I witnessed the zeal with which the hats were worn and knives brandished at the ready!
After dinner, I was pleased to see that Rowan, Alex, their families and guests weren’t ones to hold back on the dance-floor. Outside, the photo-booth van was really popular, as was the gin-bar and sparklers.
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