This was my first Firle Place outdoor ceremony in the garden. I’ve photographed several Firle Place outdoor ceremonies before in the courtyard (Here’s Laura & Patricks courtyard ceremony), but this was my first outdoor ceremony beneath the trees. The weeping willow trees created a lovely green canopy on what was one of the hottest days of the year! Alice and her bridesmaids got ready at Blue Door Barns just down the road which is perfect for preparations in the morning. They then travelled to Firle Place where everyone was sat by the pond. The florist had made a stunning silver birch floral arch for them, draped in eucalyptus. Alice and her bridesmaids waited beneath the giant ash trees before walking across the croquet lawn to where Ben was waiting for them. The ceremony was full of laughter, I love the emotion in ceremonies and this one was no exception. They walked out through showers of confetti – it’s more is more for confetti for me!! They led their guests to the walled garden for their drinks, before heading back to the lawns for garden games and cocktails beneath the trees. As a surprise Alice’s dad has his gorgeous old Sunbeam car for them and they took a drive around the estate, past the beautiful house which always reminds me of a French chateau. After photos outside the Riding School they headed inside to loud whoops and napkin twirling to their meal. Allium Events had put together delicious sharing platters they call Firepit Feasts, with roasted vegetables, humous, meatballs etc. The speeches were a lot of fun, so much laughing again, a day filled with joy.
After the meal everyone headed outside to watch the first dance, at golden hour. I love an outdoor first dance, I rarely get them but they are so romantic. The London Street Band then played outside for a real festival feel! They are brilliant, please someone hire them again. It just carried on the feeling of real joy that had been evident all day. As darkness came in everyone went inside for more dancing, which is when I slipped away into the night, a bit sad to leave the party!
You can see another Firle Place wedding of Nina & Chris HERE
Prep: Blue Door Barns
Venue: Firle Place, Lewes
Food: Allium Events
Dress: Suzanne Neville ‘Serrano’
Suit: TBC – Green tweed herringbone three piece suit
Florist: Florist On The Farm
Cellist: Jade Woodhouse – More Than Just Cello
Band: The London Street Band