Beautiful May wedding at Calke Abbey
It was a wedding day to remember, folks! Rosie and Kyle's big day at Calke Abbey, Derby was an absolute blast. The pastel flowers were in full bloom, the black peppermint food company whipped up some delicious treats, and The Lanes Floristry provided some stunning floral arrangements that rivalled the beauty of the Rosie herself.
I stayed overnight in a small outhouse in Melbourne, it was a 12.30 ceremony so I didn’t want to be battling with the traffic on a bank holiday weekend so made life easier and had a lovely child free night. I met Rosie and her girls at a nearby pub for prep. As soon as I walked in the door and saw the dresses and details I knew it was going to be a stunner. Rosie’s dress by Bo & Luca from Story of my dress was so so beautiful and came with detachable shoulders too. Her stunning headpiece was from Vivi embellish and rings designed by the couple and made by Thorpe and brown jewellers.
Rosie and Kyles stationery, invites, signage and table decorations were designed by their best man Mikey of Jade brand agency, and it was bloody lovely.
But let's not forget about the real legends of the day - Josephine Way and Sarah from Rock and Roller. These two talented artists made sure that Rosie looked like an absolute queen with their expert makeup and hair skills. I was obsessed with Rosie’s hair all day, those curls held and looked absolutely stunning on camera. The light picked up every texture as you’ll see later down this blog. Kyle also stayed at the same hotel for breakfast and despite promising Rosie he would not feed their beautiful 4 year old pancakes two days in a row… he did. and I got the evidence. (Sorry Kyle) I loved how Rosie split her time In the morning to have time with her bridesmaids and then time with her daughter. It was all so beautiful and calm and allowed me to capture some priceless mother daughter moments.
After capturing Kyle getting ready I power walked back to Rosie and captured the last few bits of prep before heading off in the car to the most stunning venue ever…. rolling hills, sheep, beautiful old outbuildings, plants and flowers everywhere… it was a dream.
The day was so relaxed, it felt like we were all just hanging out in a greenhouse/ barn/ courtyard hybrid jungle surrounded by beautiful plants and palm trees.
Walking into the Riding School was amazing, drapes and filament bulbs everywhere. Gorgeous hanging plants and foliage from the ceiling. The ceremony was short and sweet with two readings by loved ones. Rosie also walked down the aisle by her daughter indie. A special touch and one I’ve not photographed before. I’m here for the alternative bridal entrances folks.
Speaking of plants, we even got to visit the orangery at Calke Abbey. It was like we were transported to a tropical paradise - minus the heat and humidity. The wisteria was in full bloom and when I say I’ve NEVER in my life seen wisteria on this scale, I mean it.
The ceremony was over and the guest spilled outside into one of many courtyards for confetti shots and mingling.
The staff at Ivy house weddings, Emma and Rebecca were amazing. As well as all the national trust staff that ferried is around in their gold buggy. You deffo saved us at least 7000 steps. Indie, Rosie and Kyle went for some family photos around the grounds and I was so happy we got this time together. A photograhers dream.
We managed to slot a few group shots in and use the beautiful scenery and outbuildings, which were a god send on this harsh sunny (but stunning day)
But let's get back to the food, shall we? The black peppermint food company really outdid themselves with their yummy bites. It was like a foodie's dream come true. I think I might have gained a few pounds just from all the snacking. their cocktail sausages are the stuff of dreams and I’m ashamed to say rival the famous Tebay services cocktail sausages. Love a good cocktail sausage me!
Oh, and let's not forget the grand entrance into the wedding breakfast! Nat Mcool played her last song before they entered the room, guests were waving their napkins in the air, cheering them on, it’s always hard to know where to stand in these napkins tosses but I’m glad I made the risky decision to sit at the back for this shot.
The speeches were also a huge hit. Emotions ran high as friends and family shared their love and well wishes for the couple including a game of “the price in Wright” There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Through either crying or laughing.
Overall, it was a day filled with love, laughter, and lots of pastel flowers. Rosie and Kyle, you two make a beautiful couple, and we wish you all the happiness in the world. And to everyone else, if you're ever in need of a wedding venue, Calke Abbey is the place to be especially if you love plants. Epic spaces, beautiful styling and just the most perfect place to have a celebration.
Just throwing in this hair shot here - I was, and still am utterly obsessed by Sarah’s work.
Before I sign off and leave you with the dancing evening shots courtesy of The light years (provided by tailored entertainment) , I have to throw in a special mention to the cake table. WTAF. Rosie and Kyle styled this themselves and having lost their original cake maker to illness a week before, they managed to get a replacement in loquacious baker. Indie wanted to be involved so I controversially told them to stand her on the table and let her cut the cake with a normal knife too. I LOVE THIS SHOT. Hands down a fave from the day and certainly my fave cake cutting shot ever. Snap Candy Photobooth provided the entertainment for the evening and plenty of people were up getting snapped.
It was clear that Rosie and Kyle were surrounded by so much love and support on their special day. They truly deserved all the happiness in the world. And we were all so lucky to be a part of their beautiful wedding at Calke Abbey, Derby.
Guys, thank you so much for asking me to capture your stunning day. I’m honoured. You were amazing from start t finish, from the second you booked me to the cuddles I got on the way home. Thank you. I wish you al the best for the future. XXX
Shoutout to Chloe, my 2021 bride who joined me to capture content as part of her new venture. Chloe is on Instagram as _lovechloex and I can’t wait to see what she got :)