Before I sign off for a holiday, I just had to share this stunning wedding with you all. This is also the wedding that came second on my Instagram voting poll, so I couldn’t leave you hanging! Here’s Ellie and Mark’s INCREDIBLE wedding from May 2023. I didn’t do any blogging last year due to being so busy, hence this being just a little late!

When you think of a summer wedding, you might imagine sunshine, love, and a killer party. But when that summer heat is pushing 30°C, and the celebration takes place in a stunning marquee set against the backdrop of the bride’s family home in Barton-under-Needwood, you know it’s going to be extra special. Also little did I know at the time, I would be moving to the same village a few months later!

This wedding had it all—an unforgettable church ceremony packed with friends and family, a reception that was bursting with color, creativity, and personality, and a dancefloor that never stopped rocking, even in the sweltering heat. It was clear that the couple’s vision for their big day was all about fun, flair, and making sure their guests had the time of their lives. And I can assure you, everyone did. I had one of my best friends second shooting with me - Alishia Love, and both of us were just itching to be guests all day. If you work in the industry, you will know that this is quite rare!

Marquee weddings are always a firm, favourite for me. But this one? It was next-level. From the breathtaking floral installations hanging from the ceiling by Sophie’s Flower Co, to the elegant table settings from The Luxe Collection, every detail was perfectly curated to bring the couple’s vision to life, all thanks to their amazing planner Gemma Bond. It felt like stepping into a garden in full bloom, only with a band and a bar that were ready to fuel the evening’s festivities.

I have been photographing weddings for 11 years, but I have never seen anything quite as spectacular as this instillation and style. When I walked into the marquee I actually gasped and went into a frenzy snapping away!

I need to talk about my favourite thing - the personalised tambourines! Not only were they an ultimate statement piece, but as soon as Ellie and Mark walked into the marquee, every guest—yes, every guest—shook their tambourine to the beat. The entire room erupted in sound, and it felt like a proper celebration which set the tone for the rest of the evening.

And then, of course, there was the party. With the sun blazing outside, the heat in the marquee didn’t stop the dance moves happening on the floor. Guests didn’t hesitate to let loose, and the dancefloor was never empty. I even had a wiggle…

One of the things Ellie emphasized from the start was that they didn’t want anything too posed or traditional. As self-proclaimed party animals, they wanted their wedding to feel as natural and spontaneous as possible. That’s why the majority of the photos from this day are candid, captured naturally. This wedding is the perfect example of what happens when you let go of the posed shots and embrace the energy, love, and joy of the celebration. I must admit I do love elements of both, and my main focus is normally always natural but with a short amount of time for some ‘posed’ portraits. However I think this wedding suited the all candid perfectly!

Now, it’s time for me to recharge and come back ready to capture even more beautiful weddings. I’ll be out of the office for a little while, but I promise I’ll be back soon—ready to make more memories with all of you!

Until then, I hope these images give you all the sunny, joyful vibes you needed. Thanks for reading, and I can’t wait to share more with you when I return!

Jess x

Venue: Elford Church & Family home

Photographer: Jessica Raphael assisted by Alishia Love

Videographer: Adam Lyduch Films

Stationary: The Neon Nib

Wedding Planner: Gemma Bond Weddings

Flowers: Sophie’s Flower Co

Makeup: Katy Bird Bridal Work

Table Settings: The Luxe Collection

Band: The White Keys

Marquee: Majestic Event Hire