Covid-19 VS Great Fosters Wedding

Ruth and Stephen first got in touch with me in November 2019, and booked shortly after. Fast forward a few months, and we all know what happened next! Their’s was one of two weddings that I was really looking forward to photographing at Great Fosters in 2020. Ruth in particular had a strong connection with this beautiful Surrey wedding venues having been a bridesmaid there as a child many years ago. She still has the photo to prove it, and of course we recreated the photo sat on the bridge in the gardens of Great Fosters, in her wedding dress.

After exploring different options with Great Fosters it was decided to postpone the wedding reception at Great Fosters until 2022 (You can see part 2 of the wedding below) But first, in-between lockdowns, and with limited numbers, it was decided to go ahead with their church ceremony and have an informal gathering afterwards in the garden at home. Fortunately the whole family are incredibly creative and resourceful. Military grade wedding transport to and from church was provided by dad, a family friend did the video, mum provided catering, and Ruth’s sister, herself a professional florist did the flowers.

Great Fosters Wedding Reception

Fast forward to September 2021 and Covid restriction, limiting weddings and large gatherings, had been relaxed, and it was so great to catch up with everyone, after what had been a very busy summer for me. The day began at the family home again, before heading over to Great Fosters. We were able to spend time outside at Great Fosters and do some group photos that would have been unimaginable during the pandemic, but now felt very special. The Tithe Barn at Great Fosters was able to host the wedding breakfast and it was very entertaining to listen to a very entertaining father of the bride speech (including rewatching the video of the ceremony) and Stephen even ran a quiz for guests to test their knowledge of the couple!

Credits:

Venue: Great Fosters

Florist: Lillybuff Flowers

DJ: Firebird Events