Afua & Paul’s Oulton Hall Wedding by Creative Wedding Photographer Gloucestershire
Today I’m sharing Afua & Paul’s Oulton Hall Wedding. Their marriage ceremony took place in their local Church and was followed by celebrations at Oulton Hall. This Spring wedding will be one to remember for a long time. The Beast from the East meant a snow blizzard started as soon as we arrived at the reception venue. The snow didn’t let up until the morning and got so deep we abandoned our journey home and stayed in a nearby hotel.
Paul & Afua were absolutely amazing and managed to head out for two super quick portrait sessions, despite it feeling like -12 outside! I’m so glad they did because how often do couples get a white wedding? Even when they’ve been dreaming of a winter wedding. And the resulting photos are gorgeous. There’s also something lovely and cosy about a snow day and being nestled up with all your family and friends is the best way to spend one.
[row cols_nr=”2″ class=”narrow”]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[/row]
What made you decide to get married where you did?
St Margaret’s Church has always been a special place for the both of us as it’s an iconic place in Horsforth, where we are both from. It sits at the top of a big hill so can seen throughout the town. Also, we wanted a traditional wedding and thought St Margaret’s would definitely suit with its beautiful stained glass windows.
[row cols_nr=”2″ class=”narrow”]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[/row]
How long did you take you take to plan the wedding?
18 months.
Did you have a theme or colour scheme you were working towards?
Yes, everything was centred around lavender in memory of my Grandma, so we had a lovely mix of purples.
How would you describe your wedding day in two sentences?
It was the most brilliant day of our lives! We would do it all again if we could, even with the snow!
[row cols_nr=”2″ class=”narrow”]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[/row]
[row cols_nr=”2″ class=”narrow”]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[/row]
How did you meet and how long have you been together?
We have been together for four and a half years and had been in the same year in high school, but didn’t really talk to each other. We met properly at a bar called Reform in Leeds through mutual friends.
Where did you splurge and where and how did you save?
We splurged on the venue, Oulton Hall, the wedding dress, a live band and a VERY good photographer! These things in particular were very important as people always remember these aspects of the day, and we wanted to have the best memories. One way of saving was by making our own wedding favours and place names. As well as making our own save the dates, invitations, menus and table plan.
[row cols_nr=”2″ class=”narrow”]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[/row]
[row cols_nr=”2″ class=”narrow”]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[col size=”6″]
[/col]
[/row]
The Proposal
Paul took me to our favourite place to go for a walk, Castle Howard. On the day, I didn’t really want to go because I had so much work to do and was feeling stressed. But eventually Paul persuaded me. He made a cute picnic and I thought he was doing all this to cheer me up because it was my grandma’s funeral the week before. It was such a hot, beautiful day and we were walking through the gardens. Paul was acting strange though. He kept dragging me here, there and everywhere instead of just enjoying the views. Now, I realise it was because he was looking for the perfect place to propose! Eventually he took me near a lake where it was just us. We had just bought a house together and he said how things are moving forward. He then said I have something to tell you and I said, “what have you done?” because it sounded really serious! He then bent down on one knee and I can’t remember anything he said because I was so shocked and happy but when he showed me the ring apparently I just backed away from him so he had to ask me again, “Is that a yes?”. I then answered!
How and why did you choose your wedding photographer?
I first met Amber at the Harrogate Vintage Fair with my maid of honour. I had previously spoken to a number of photographers but something didn’t quite click. The first thing I noticed on Amber’s stall from a distance were the photographs. They were so beautiful and natural. I really liked the lighting and finish. When I first spoke to Amber, she was incredibly friendly. No question was too much trouble and she knew exactly what type of photos I wanted. Paul and I feel quite awkward in front of the camera so we didn’t want too many ‘posed’ pictures. I loved that she was local to us as well as I wanted all my suppliers to be local. We were sold when looking at one of her wedding albums, absolutely stunning! I also wanted to be able to see Paul’s morning on the day, so when I was told that she is one of a pair with the lovely Tom, this fulfilled everything we wanted from a photographer.
What was it like working with Amber Marie Photography?
Amber and Tom were excellent to work with. I booked this over a year in advance and throughout that time Amber made sure to touch base with me, and sent me information I needed for my wedding album with plenty of notice. I was also given really handy advice closer to the day which was really appreciated. On the night before the wedding we were forecast snow and I was really worried about all my suppliers pulling out. Amber set my mind at ease with a lovely email. On the day morning of the wedding especially Amber blended seamlessly into my Mum’s hectic household. It was like having another bridesmaid there – she was really funny and easy going with all my family. She was not invasive at all and took pictures as we were rushing around.
What was it like having a second photographer?
Tom was just as friendly, easy-going and professional as Amber. He spoke to Paul upon arrival about the type of shots he would be taking, and then mingled with all the family and ushers who were all very complimentary of him. The day was absolutely freezing but neither Amber or Tom seemed to mind at all! They were more than happy to freeze while we took some outdoor shots when we arrived at Oulton Hall and during the champagne reception. Moreover, when it really started to snow, I asked if we could go outside to take more pictures in the snow and they were more than willing. I hadn’t realised it was actually a blizzard outside! It was worth it though- Amber is incredibly gifted and although I thought my eyes were closed the whole time, we have some stunning photos.
What advice would you give any other couples about planning a wedding?
Everyone always says the day goes by quickly, but it really does!! It’s better to have your wedding early so you have a full day with friends. Also, make sure you get time on your own at some point in the day. Ask for lots of photos of guests, it’s great seeing them have fun at your wedding. If you can, hire a live band. It makes all the difference.
Looking for relaxed and natural wedding photography?
If you’re looking for relaxed and natural wedding photography or a creative wedding photographer in Gloucestershire, I’d love to hear from you. Dates are starting to fill up for 2019 so get in touch to have a chat about your plans.
Oulton Hall Wedding Supplier Credits
Flowers by Pink Ginger
Wedding Dress by Ellis from Confetti & Lace
Tiara by Joyce Jackson from Confetti & Lace
Bridal Shoes by Benjamin Adams
Jewellery from Debenhams
Cake by Personal Ice Cakes
Menswear from Fairytales Bridal Shop