Abbie & Carl got married at Dodford Country Manor with their guests and two dogs, Echo and Flint. I bloody adore dogs at weddings, so I was spoilt with these two. Echo is a slightly mad German Shepherd, just like mine! Flint is a lovely, soft golden Labrador that was just so well behaved.
This award-winning country estate was the perfect setting for their rustic family wedding. The rolling countryside made the perfect backdrop for some gorgeous photos of the newlyweds at their gorgeous venue. I’m a sucker for a picturesque barn wedding and this really was one of those! It was such a lovely day from start to finish, and I really enjoyed spending the day with this couple and their guests.
.
A Cottage in the Country for Bridal Prep
I was greeted with such a warm welcome by Abbie the bride-to-be, and her bridesmaids, at a lovely little country cottage on the morning of their wedding day. Sam C Makeup Artist had already started when I arrived and everyone was full of excitement. Gifts were exchanged and bubbly was popped. Between the flowing fizz and hurried morning preparations were conversations about the rest of their special day! It was s such a lovely relaxed, warm atmosphere and the sun shining through the windows illuminated the well-lit room.
Rustic, Country Barn Ceremony
For now, back to Dodford Manor, nestled in beautiful countryside – where the professional team welcomed the wedding party. The Groom, was already there, looking dapper in his suit from Salters of Rugby. Carl and his guests headed into the rustic country barn ahead of the Ceremony. The bride arrived in a cute little classic mini cooper, and snuck into the bridal room as the guests were seated, holding her beautiful flowers by Melanie Webb Flowers. She walked down the aisle with her dad and gorgeous labrador Flint. Carl, her husband to be, waited patiently for her at the end, with their German Shepherd Echo, and the rest of the guests. The Ceremony was lovely and heartwarming, with parents, family, friends and guests all looking on lovingly. They signed the register and exited through confetti and cheers of happiness.
The Perfect Countryside Backdrop
After the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests headed outside for photos, drinks and mingling with guests. The dogs came with us for a photo shoot, before a dog-sitter came and took them home. I spent a little bit more time with the lovely couple taking some photos of just the two of them, and we had a lovely walk around the gardens. After this, it was time to head in for the Speeches and the always eagerly anticipated Wedding Breakfast.
Capturing Love, Laughter and Lots of Dancing!
The meal and the speeches went down a treat. I loved capturing photos of the guests enjoying the toasts, and then after speeches, the bride and groom played an hilarious game of Mr & Mrs. The night was concluded with a wonderful first dance, and then the band, Happy Hour Band, played some great floor-fillers, which had everyone up dancing.
I thoroughly enjoyed this wedding and loved spending the day with Abbie and Carl. All the best to this great couple – and the dogs!!