When I met Elsie and Nick for their pre-wedding photoshoot I couldn’t believe what a beautiful sunny day it was and how lucky I was to be photographing such a great couple. By a stroke of good timing, Elsie and Nick originally found me on the wedding directory ‘Little Book for Brides’, so I was truly delighted that they booked me as their wedding photographer. Especially when they said that they just loved my work as soon as they saw it! I’m absolutely thrilled to photographing their wedding at Friars Court, Oxfordshire this summer. You’ll understand why when you look at their gorgeous pre-wedding photoshoot from early May.
An Exclusive Wedding Venue……
Friars Court is a stunning private house with an intriguing history. With the site dating back to 1149, this was home to ‘The Knights Templar Order of St John of Jerusalem’. Such history! The Dissolution of the Monasteries (in the 1530’s), saw it pass in to private ownership.
In the early 20th Century the house was bought by Richard Willmer, and it’s his descendant, Charles, who has been the current incumbent since 2014.
Friars Court now holds exclusive weddings organised by Jeffrey Cleaver of Silver Pear Weddings. I adore venues like this that still have that private home feel. They feel more personal and you feel like you’re cocooned away from the realities of the modern world. It takes hard work, passion and a huge personal investment to make a venue feel so special…………..
When we met Jeffrey I could immediately see why Elsie and Nick were so excited to show me around. Friars Court offers the ‘outdoor’ wedding that they were looking for. There are several locations where you can hold the ceremony, and the Rose Arbour is just gorgeous.
Gorgeous Gardens……..
The gardens are an important part of their day, so rain or shine, Elsie and Nick are determined to enjoy them. Don’t worry Elsie I have umbrellas at the ready! Oh, and let me tell you folks, these gardens didn’t disappoint. I cannot wait to photograph their wedding ceremony and celebrations here.
Looking around the moated gardens (yes, this is a house with a moat!) I was completely taken with the beautiful ‘garden rooms’. They’ll provide the perfect backdrop for Nick and Elsie’s wedding photography. In fact they were perfect for the pre-wedding photoshoot! Ornamental cherry trees, pear trees, an arched moat bridge, what more could you ask for? Well, there’s also a monumental yew arch! It’s achingly romantic, and that’s even before you get to the Rose Garden!
The Photoshoot……
Love laughter and romance is how I would describe their pre-wedding photoshoot. An abundance of natural beauty was the order of the day. I think Elsie smiled all the way through and both of them looked so comfortable and happy with each other.
Nick and Elsie were able to completely relax in front of the camera and enjoy some time together. I especially love the photos of them as they share a moment beneath the flowery canopy of a blossom tree. The grounds and gardens of Friars Court were also beautifully green. A perfect contrast to Elsie’s naturally lovely auburn hair and infectious smile. Just gorgeous…..
I won’t say too much more about their wedding day plans in case their friends are reading this. But, suffice it to say, it’s going to be an awesome day. Bring on June!
So, now you’ve seen Elsie and Nicks gorgeous pre-wedding photoshoot is it something you’d love to do as well?
To find out more about Pre Wedding Photography, see more photos from other gorgeous pre wedding photoshoots give me a call on 0370 626 5200 or drop me a line at hello@scott-wood.uk to check my availability and talk about your plans.