Katie and Matt’s Michelham Priory Wedding

What a gem of a venue Michelham Priory in East Sussex is and what a fantastic day we had at Katie and Matt’s wedding there! I visited the Priory before the wedding for a joint family day out and recce and instantly fell in love with it. The manicured and wild grounds, the stunning Priory and barns, all so beautiful, interesting and exciting for a wedding! The scene was set and it did not disappoint! There isn’t a better way to start to the day than bride’s preps at the awesome Belle Toute Lighthouse, within the Seven Sisters National Park overlooking the Birling Gap. Although fairly brief, it was a great opportunity for some lovely detail shots, a few prep shots and some natural moments with mum and the bridesmaids around the lighthouse. For the journey to the Priory, Katie had hired a gorgeous 1934 Wolsely classic car and it really was the perfect way to arrive in style and for more great photo ops!

The weather was a little grey in the early part of the day, however the rain held off and they were able to have their wedding blessing and hand fasting ceremony outside overlooking the lake. That was very special and just added to the whole atmosphere and ambience of the day. Once the ceremony was over and the confetti thrown, everyone had their chance to throw theirs arms round the couple and have a quick chat before we arranged a handful of groups ahead of the drinks reception. I usually shoot candids for the first hour drinks, so that the couple can enjoy the guests, drinks and canapés, but when the weather is unpredictable it’s sometimes best to just taker a little time out to get the job done. For a 15 minute detour it was a good move so that they could relax for the remaining hour!

The day went without a hitch and after dinner and speeches we were blessed with a beautiful golden hour photo opportunity during our trip around the grounds. With the dancing yet to come, the evening celebrations and photos sealed the perfect wedding day, all taking place in two stunning locations with a completely chilled couple, Katie and Matt. What a cracker and here’s my take on their wonderful Sussex wedding.