West Sussex wedding in Kirdford village near Petworth

Bride getting ready at Ryde House in Petowrth, West Sussex

West Sussex wedding

Late May, a warm and sunny day for this West Sussex wedding for Bebe and Charlie. When Bebe first sent me an enquiry, almost eighteen months before the wedding day, and I confirmed I was still available, she replied, “That’s great news! My partner and I both really love your style, I have been dreading the idea of having to pose.” That is what documentary/reportage wedding photography is about. Forget the camera, enjoy the day, and let the camera capture that, authentically.

RYDE HOUSE, PETWORTH

So the coverage starts at Ryde House in Petworth. A lovely Grade II listed Regency villa, owned and rented out by the neighbouring Angel Inn. Here Bebe got ready with family and friends, before the short drive north to the nearby village of Kirdford and the St John the Baptist church there. At the church, Charlie and his brother were busy sorting out the order of services on the pews as well as greeting the many wedding guests, in the Sussex sunshine.

Bebe arrived, there were tears, there was laughter and this West Sussex wedding ceremony began. Confetti run out of the churchyard and then Charlie and Bebe left in style – a borrowed vintage sports car. The wedding reception was just outside the village, in a field adjoining Charlie’s family home. A vast open-sided marquee and plenty of space – with some wedding guests camping at the far end of the field. Everything kept running smoothly by Lizzy at Paul Simon Marquees. After drinks in the sunshine, it was time for the meal as guests sat at three very long tables. Some emotional speeches from Bebe’s mother, her sister and Charlie’s sister, his best man and finally Charlie, as the day turned to night. With no need to move tables for dancing space, it was a quick cake cut – the cake made by Bebe’s sister, Hermione – and then the first dance.

Here are a few images from this sunny West Sussex wedding…