Mercure Great Danes Summer Wedding with Sam & Kelsey

The last time I was at the Mercure Great Danes was for Jemma & Jamie's wedding back in the spring of 2019, before all this Covid chaos, so it was great to be back again in better circumstances, now that restrictions were continuing to be lifted through the summer of 2021. Sam & Kelsey originally booked me some time ago now, and after a long engagement, it was finally their turn to tie the knot!

The strange weather was continuing later into August, and I had a feeling today, like for Dan & Sarah's wedding recently, was going to be another case of dodging the rain clouds. It always pays to have a plan B with the famous British weather. As Sam & Kelsey had only booked a single photographer my focus was on Kelsey getting ready in the morning, though I did find a little time to grab some impromptu 'groom prep' with Sam and his brother outside the front of the hotel.

With the rain and wind that was forecast, the ceremony was sadly moved indoors as a precaution, but there was a special twist after the legal proceedings, and something I've not witnessed before - a sand pouring! Selected close friends and family poured coloured sand into a heart-shaped container, providing a unique pattern and a special momento for Sam & Kelsey to keep. This was provided by Kate Mitchell, a celebrant based in Kent.

After the sand ceremony and the 'receiving line', we dashed outside onto the grass for a quick group photo and confetti throw, before the rest of the small photos were done back indoors, as the rain kept starting and stopping through the afternoon! It finally relinquished after the meal and speeches, however, so I was able to grab some lovely photos of Sam & Kelsey outside in the gardens and grounds (along with their adorable daughter).

It wasn't long before it was time to cut the cake and show off their dance moves, and Kelsey even had a second dance with her dad as well, which again is something I don't see that often these days, but is a really sweet touch. It was great to finally see these two get married after so long, and I wish them all the best for the future!

Whether you're planning a big lavish wedding, or something much smaller, head over to my wedding photography page for prices and lots of information on how I can help make your day as memorable and as awesome as possible! You can also get in touch to enquire about your wedding date to see if I'm available.