An intimate affair with meaningful details…

Where do I start?! This wedding has been 2 years in the making…from the minute I had the zoom call with Krista and Phil and heard all about her incredible plans and thoughtful details for her day I have been counting down to the day. And boy I knew it was going to be stunning but it exceeded all expectations

Krista is so incredibly talented and the owner of Crystabelle candles (my previous couples might just recognise these!) every detail included in the wedding day had personal meaning behind it all which makes it all just so much more special.

I first met this pair properly for the engagement shoot in 2021, not just in a poppy field but barley to and we were gifted the best golden hour. Now I joke to my couples you can’t possibly be blessed with two golden hours for your engagement shoot AND wedding day but Krista had been manifesting her golden hour both times….and the girl pulled through!! Everyone knows golden hour is my JAM! I went to town both times!

I rocked up to the lovely intimate Stratton court barn on a perfect September day…The autumn equinox to be exact…Begins in summer and ends in the autumn. Also a day shared with the brides late Grandfather so extra special meaning. With dew still on the ground and the sun bursting through interspersed clouds, it was set to be perfect weather to see these guys wed.

I found team bride getting ready in Stratton Courts bridal suite where Krista promptly handed me all her details (man I love this level of organisation!) and I had a field day capturing all her jewellery, flowers, shoes, stationary and personal touches. I could have spent all day doing flat lays!

Hannah Andersen worked her magic on the girls hair and faces and the Bride was helped in to an Essence of Australia gown from Butterfly Bridal. This gown was not only selected because of its beautiful elegant nature but it was called Sapphire which was Krista’s Grandad’s birth stone. Also Krista had seen it was number 3232 which firstly was her wedding date backwards and secondly she explained is an Angel Number which carries with it the energies of love, faith, hope, encouragement, and trust. All gifts to help you make a life for yourself and most welcomed on the first day of your new chapter as man and wife.

The dress also had a bespoke feature where a piece of Krista’s Grandad’s shirt was sewn into dress as a pocket which contains his mum and dads wedding rings. And also counted as her something blue.

Before our first look with family Krista had a beautiful pearl studded veil fitted and clutched a bouquet by Wild Rose flowers containing flowers grown in the couples garden and also hints of flowers also used in Krista’s Grandad’s funeral bouquet.

The vows were exchanged at the local church followed by a full blown confetti toss. We then returned to Stratton Court Barn to make full use of the rose garden which was enjoying a second bloom for couples portraits.

With an intimate wedding of 35 guests we captured a group shot in front of the house involving a set up of chairs so we could see everyone’s lovely faces! More of a logistical nightmare but worth it for a proper group shot!

Before everyone enjoyed sitting down to eat I got to capture the beautiful wedding breakfast room. With high ceilings and beautiful stone walls the light in the room was gorgeous paired with a wonderful signature scent Krista had made herself with her very own candles. The room was adorned with flowers grown by the bride and was a riot of colour against a navy celestial theme. Krista’s precious crystals all decorated the tables bringing with them various energy and gifts for all to benefit from. Guests also got to dine on apple juice made by the two little boys Krista is a nanny for!

The evening kicked off with the best golden hour which was fully enjoyed by the couple strolling the driveway and the long grass by the lake before we returned for a round of sparklers. Then we headed indoors for cake cutting of the stunning celestial theme cake made by the talented Charlene from Terre et Lune cakes. Trust me she is not a baker she is an absolute cake artist genius! Her unique designs are works of art and a real show stopper….shame to cut it but then you realise how amazing they are to taste!

We finished the night as they kicked off with a first dance and the bridesmaids got everyone going on the dance floor!

Krista and Phil you are the most thoughtful caring pair and your day was a dream to capture, with the most stunning styling! Thanks for putting all your trust in me and your suppliers! Wishing you a life filled with love and happiness!

Here is the little black book of fabulous suppliers who made the magic happen!

Venue: Stratton Court Barn

Hair: Holly Andersen

Make Up: Holly Andersen

Wedding Dress: Butterfly Bridal Boutique – Essence of Australia

Wedding Shoes: ASOS

Suits: Formal Tailor

Bridesmaid Dresses: Infinity Dress

Florals: Wild Rose Florist

Cake: Terre et Lune Cake Design

Caterers: S&J cuisine

Transport: White 7 Bedford