The ancient and magnificent Hassop Hall
Think the ultimate in elegant sophistication combined with a generous dose of the orient….. Jennifer’s dress was a dream in princess-esque glam; the flowers classic and timeless, and the venue, glamorous and decadent…. And an awesome chinese girl or boy favour in every place setting.
Chinese Tea ceremony and wedding Hassop Hall
On Thursday I went to photograph Richard and Jennifer’s beautiful Chinese tea ceremony and wedding at the ancient Hassop Hall in Derbyshire. Hassop’s history goes right back to the Domesday Book, whilst the tea ceremony is the most significant event in a modern chinese wedding, (as the traditional “three tea ceremony” is usually not practiced.)
Photographing weddings is such a personal and intimate event, and I feel so privileged to get a small glimpse of other people’s cultures and customs. Like most people, I had an idea of what the Chinese tea ceremony is all about, but to experience and photograph this significant occasion, was really special for me.
Chinese Tea ceremony and wedding Hassop Hall 3
The wedding, too, was a very personal and intimate affair. Richard and Jennifer both wrote their own vows, which underpinned their personal and cultural beliefs, and which left most (if not all!) of the friends and family a teeny bit teary-eyed!
Wedding flowers; pink roses and white and purple orchids
My favourite part of photographing any wedding is capturing the expressions on people’s faces and all the tender moments between the couple. Isn’t it every girl’s dream to have her man look at her like this?! And Jennifer was without question, the most beautiful, joyful bride. They both radiated a quiet happiness, which made the day perfect!
Bride and groom together after making their vows
Afterwards, the weather held, despite the threatening clouds, (which created quite a dramatic background for the photos) and champagne and canapes were served on the lawn.
And whilst the guests assembled and found their dinner places there was still time for a bit of family fun…..
and some extra indoor photos on the fabulous main staircase….
Bride on the staircase at Hassop Hall
Thank you for asking me to make your photo memories jennifer and Richard. It was a really wonderful, special day. 🙂
