Hot off the back of Chris & Bethany's wedding in Surrey the previous day, this wedding had me staying closer to home in North Kent, but on a similarly warm day! Daryl & Geraldine opted for my Everest wedding photography collection, so had a full 12 hours of coverage to ensure no part of their day is missed, with Molly being my second photographer for their wedding at The Oak Grove.
As both Daryl & Geraldine opted to get ready at the same hotel near Sittingbourne in the morning, it made it super easy for my to cover both sides without too much bother. Space was a little bit of a premium, however, given the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen in attendance who needed to get dressed, but as always I try to stay out of the way as best I can. There was definitely a bit of nervous energy on both sides, but this is perfectly normal on your wedding morning!
Given Daryl's job working for Ford, they had arranged something a little different for Geraldine's wedding car - an original Model T! With bench seating in the back, it had room for the entire bridal party to be driven (albeit quite slowly) to the venue. The guests were arriving and finding their places for the outdoor ceremony, shaded by the grove of oak trees that surrounded them, giving the venue its namesake. Daryl & Geraldine had some further touches planned for the ceremony, including their 'flowerman' and his grand entrance, and even an owl flying in with the rings in a fabric bag tied to its leg.
After the ceremony and confetti, Geraldine was presented with a carved wooden swing that had been installed in secret, leading to some really sweet sentimental moments. While their guests enjoyed some drinks and canapes, I snuck them both back to the wedding cars for a couple of quick photos before the Model T had to leave. Group photos then followed in the shade of the oak trees, as well as some further couples photos in the immediate area, as time was limited before cutting the cake and sitting down for the wedding breakfast.
The speeches followed the meal, and as always they provided everyone with some light-hearted entertainment, and embarrassment for Daryl in each measure! With the sun now going down and the temperature more comfortable, I decided to take Daryl & Geraldine to some different spots in and around the venue for some further couples photos. Doing this twice in a day is rare, but I felt we didn't get enough time earlier, and they were eager to have more photos taken, so I was happy to oblige!
Back at the venue, it was time for the first dance, with the two of them doing an almost choreographed routine for their friends and family. This was followed by dances with other family members as other guests joined them on the dancefloor. Outside, there was an evening buffet set up, and the cocktail bar was in full swing, and I had one last idea of a photo to try with Daryl & Geraldine to round off the evening.
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.