Clearwell Castle Wedding Photography
Award Winning Wedding Venue in Gloucestershire
It is a pleasure to present you with a few highlights from Eleanor and Chris’s recent Clearwell Castle wedding ceremony and celebrations.
The months had counted down, the planning was done and they could do no more. The storms had passed the night before and their day had come. It had been a long time coming and I’ve been just as excited as our bride and groom as this is one of my favourite venues to shoot at. The fairytale Clearwell Castle wedding venue is located in Gloucestershire, set within the stunning scenery of the Forest of Dean.
There’s No Place Like Home
Eleanor and Chris are currently living in Salisbury but Eleanor returned back to her routes to her mother’s house in Caldicott for her preparations. Here, Eleanor was presented with a wedding gift from Chris. A delicately engraved champagne flute with their names and wedding date upon it. Eleanor and her bridesmaids were so impressed that Chris had thought of this they soon had to put the glass to the test. Yes, the champagne was finally flowing.
Once the preparation photos had been covered, it was a quick 30 minute dash onto Clearwell Castle where I was greeted by a slightly anxious groom and bestman. Both Chris and his brother Alex were in demand and everyone wanted to meet, greet, hug and kiss them so I left them to their own devices until after the ceremony.
What Goes Up Must Come Down
Eleanor arrived in style and sat outside the venue until their wedding co-ordinator Zoe gave the nod to head in. Heading up the Castle steps the wind did its usual trick and whisked Eleanor’s veil off. Luckily her Chauffeur from Henrietta Hire had his goalie hat on and managed to save it before it flew down the driveway.
Eleanor’s mum had the honour of giving her daughter’s hand in marriage to Chris. Their smiles walking down the aisle said it all. It was their time. Firstly a legal ceremony and registry signing was undertaken by the local registrars followed by a religious ceremony by the families local vicar. Traditionally there were hymns and a blessing. A first for me to see both at a Clearwell Castle wedding.
Quick Quick Shoot
The guests then mingled in the main rooms of the Castle, enjoying the nibbles and drinks while Eleanor and Chris went for a spin in their wedding car. On their return, everyone was asked to head outside to greet and wave the newlyweds back in. It was a cold windy day so we didn’t hang around too long. A handful of confetti and group images and it was straight back into the warmth.
Shortly the guests were asked to take their seat for the wedding breakfast. One thing that I never forget about Clearwell Castle weddings is that their food is amazing. To be fair, it’s the best!
Night Fever
It was turning out to be one hell of a party. If you’ve had the pleasure to attend a Clearwell Castle wedding you will know about its gem of a reception room. It’s hidden beneath below the main building and is more like a dance club set up.
Thank You’s
Unknown to Chris, Eleanor’s mum had arranged a surprise videographer to capture their wedding day. My professional sidekicks Stephen and Gareth were hired from Embrace Weddings. A dream team who I always love shooting alongside. They know exactly how I work and vice versa so we know how to get the best results for our brides and grooms.
I must thank Zoe for her support and kindness she gave to myself and everyone on the day. Its great to work alongside someone who puts more than 100% into their job and thrives for what’s best for the bride, groom and wedding guests. Thank you Zoe for all you help during their most elegant Clearwell Castle wedding.
(Additional supplier list at the end of this post)
Wedding Dress from All About Eve Chepstow store.
Wedding Invites & Table Plan by Cardiff Invitations.
Flowers by Emma Norton in Bristol
Wedding decor by Little Wedding Helper based in Bristol
Cake supplied by Pretty Amazing Cakes in Bristol
