



Around 2,000 city centre shoppers were engaged in short conversations and 20 people received support from trained advisers as part of the second RUOK? day in Leicester on Saturday.
Volunteers included Cathy Ellis, chair of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Yasmin Surti lead mental health commissioner for Leicester City Council and Healthwatch executive officer David Henson.
They mingled with shoppers by Leicester’s clock tower and in the Haymarket Shopping Centre, encouraging them to ‘make connections’ for good mental health.
The event was organised for Mental Health Awareness Week by partners from health, police, rail, local authority and third sector organisations across Leicestershire and Rutland,
Many people also signed a pledge wall, promising to take positive steps to support their own or loved ones’ emotional wellbeing.
Event co-ordinator Matthew Wakely, a mental health team manager from Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT), said: “RUOK? is about how all of us can look after ourselves and how important is to look after each other.
“Everyone can be affected by low mood – and it doesn’t always show. Very often a simple act – taking time to ask someone; ‘Are you OK?’ and taking time to listen or something as simple as a friendly word or text can make a big difference in helping to lift low mood. “It was really encouraging to see how willing people were to have open conversations about their feelings, or their concerns about others, when asked the question.”
Shoppers were offered business cards and bookmarks signposting them to the RUOK? website – http://ruoktoday.co.uk/ Information and advice leaflets were also provided.
Yasmin Surti said: “Leicester City Council was proud to be a partner in the RUOK? event, when one again we learnt just how important it is that we build resilience in our communities and encourage people to try and make a difference by looking out for each other, lending a listening ear or simply offering a friendly smile.
“On Saturday, volunteers and people from all walks of life took just a few seconds out of their busy day to say hello, whilst others clearly benefitted from the opportunity to have a longer chat about their wellbeing.”
MORGAN’S STORY follows:
Morgan’s story:
Among the volunteers on Saturday was Morgan Bates, 17, from New Parks, Leicester, who was inspired by her experience of mental illness to get involved in helping others.
Morgan, pictured with mum Rachel on the RUOK? stall in the Haymarket shopping centre, is a member of Leicester’s young people’s council and LPT’s Evolving Minds - a group of young people helping LPT to co-design service improvements around children’s mental health. She is currently involved in helping to develop the Trust’s Health for Teens website.
She said: “Both mum and I were keen to get involved in the RUOK? campaign because of my own experience of mental illness and that of other members of my family.
“I’ve experienced quite severe depression and the support of my family was huge in helping me with recovery. It was important for me to do something that could help make a positive difference, and it was a really rewarding experience being able to signpost some people who said they weren’t OK to further support.
“When people asked me what we were doing and talked to us about raising understanding and encouraging people to offer support to others, I felt like I was able to repay some of the help and support I have had.”
]]>Louise and Keith knew there would be an issue with the length of daylight the chance of poor weather and generally the fact that it would be cold no matter what. Only a few pictures were taken outside the hotel but during that time the sun broke through the cloud.
Louise and Keith wrote to say thank you for the photos "we love them", it is so nice when people take the time to say thank you.
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John Alexander Christie was 22 years old, and a lance-corporal in the 1/11th (County of London) Battalion, The London Regiment (Finsbury Rifles), British Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.
Jock Christie VC
On 21 December/22 December 1917, at Fejja, Palestine, after a position had been captured, the enemy immediately made counter-attacks up the communication trenches. Lance-Corporal Christie, seeing what was happening, took a supply of bombs and went alone about 50 yards in the open along the communication trench and bombed the enemy. He continued to do this in spite of heavy opposition until a block had been established. On his way back he bombed more of the enemy who were moving up the trench. His prompt action cleared a difficult position at a most difficult time and saved many lives. (source: Wikipedia)
]]>David proposed to Roisheen at the top of the tower at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon and so when we spent some time taking their engagement photographs where else butStratford-upon-Avon could we have possible gone. After the proposal they went and spent some time in the Butterfly Farm so again we headed there to take some pictures. Although as it was a rather chilly autumn day the humidity and sudden change in temperature made things rather difficult with the constant condensation on the lens, we did still get some nice pictures despite the problems focusing and constantly trying to demist the camera. But I think getting the photographs they wanted was worth the hassle, although I am glad that for the wedding photography we will not have ‘steamy pictures’.
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Pre Wedding - Engagement Photography at Priston Mill near Bristol and BathOn a dull grey day Lauren and Barnaby met with me to have a look round Priston Mill where they will be holding their wedding early next year. We took the opportunity to take some Pre Wedding pictures - Engagement Photography at Priston Mill near Bristol and Bath
Lauren and Brendan will be celebrating their wedding at Priston Mill near Bath. Priston Mill is a beautiful location close to the Bristol and Bath. Here you will find the perfect secluded wedding venue with superb facilities and service.
If you are looking for a beautiful and are set amidst picturesque landscaped gardens, set in a peaceful valley surrounded by farm land that provides the perfect backdrop for the all-important wedding photographs, then take a look at this magical location. The Watermill is ideal for the more intimate wedding celebrations and the tithe barn is ideal for larger weddings. Inside you will find comfortable surroundings, which are simple and tasteful combining the historic nature of the Mill and Barn with the modern desire to give a stylish backdrop to wedding celebration that means you can celebrate your most special of days at Priston Mill with confidence.
wedding at Priston Mill near BathPriston Mill is close to both Bristol and Bath. the Tythe Barn and Watermill are beautiful venues that are perfect for wedding receptions and civil ceremonies.
Priston Mill is close to both BristolPriston Mill is close to both Bristol and Bath. the Tythe Barn and Watermill are beautiful venues that are perfect for wedding receptions and civil ceremonies.
wedding photography at Priston Mill near BathLauren and Brendan will be celebrating their wedding at Priston Mill near Bath. Priston Mill is a beautiful location close to the Bristol and Bath.
wedding photography at Priston Mill near Bath
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Tortworth Court is a stunning Victorian mansion, near Wotton-Under-Edge in Gloucestershire. It is, quite simply, magnificent. A huge Gothic masterpiece, with superb gardens, and an arboretum - it is the spectacular setting for a perfect wedding.
Kate and Andy were married at Pool Court in Yate, Bristol but held there wedding reception at Tortworth Court near Wotton-Under-Edge in Gloucestershire between Bristol and Gloucester.
]]>From old barns to a tin church, windmill to cottages this is a wedding venue with a difference. Even if you are not getting married it is still a great place to visit.
You can view all the wedding photograph by visiting this link to the Avoncroft Museum wedding
You can also see the pre-wedding or engagement photographs
Visit Avoncroft Museum By Car
Avoncroft is situated close to both the M5 and M42 motorways approximately two miles south of Bromsgrove.
Exit via Junction 5 of the M5 (signed Webbs of Wychbold) or Junction 1 of the M42.
Brown tourism signs direct you once you are nearby.
The Museum’s postcode for sat nav is B60 4JR.
By train
The Museum is about a 30 minute walk from Bromsgrove Railway Station.
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This is the first time I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at Guyers House and I must say I was very impressed with the venue and the gardens. The staff were friendly and helpful too.
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Lulworth Cove is a cove near the village of West Lulworth, on the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site in Dorset, southern England
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Every wedding is magical but there are some that are both magical and fun to photograph. Sarah and Andy's wedding was just one of those weddings that just had that little extra to make the day interesting as a wedding photographer as well as a guest. It might have been the spectacular landscape of North Wales, or the marquee beautifully decorated for the wedding breakfast, perhaps it was the wonderful company and party atmosphere that made the day so much fun, but I think it was just the seance of fun that everyone had.
Andy and the groom's men all arrived at the wedding by tractor and trailer; not the usual Limo or Bentley. It was certainly a little different, although I am not sure what would have happened if the day was as wet as it had been all the week before. up until a couple of days before the ground was so wet there was a concern that the wedding marquee may not be able to be put into the field that had been chosen. However, the rain stopped, and the field drained and the marquee was put up with out a hitch.
It was a long drive up to North Wales from Bristol and so I traveled up the day before and stayed in a local hotel. The next morning traveled to Sarah's family farm to capture the bride and brides maid's getting their hair and make-up done for the wedding. Then a quick drive to the groom's house to get some pictures of the boys getting ready to set off before rushing back to see the bride and her father getting into a beautiful horse-drawn carriage pulled by two white horses.
For any wedding a horse-drawn carriage looks both stylish and is a very romantic but when the setting is such a beautiful rural location then there really does seem to be something a little extra special.
The day was just full of fun and the weather was perfect. Late in the evening as the party continued I said good bye and headed back to the hotel for a well needed rest. The next day I head up to Conwy Castle to take some photographs of the railway before heading back home to Portishead near Bristol.
Sarah & Andy wrote to say:
"We don't just like the photographs we absolutely love them! Was great looking through them last night, we had such a lovely wedding day and you've managed to capture our special day perfectly! The video was great!" You view Sarah and Andy's wedding video by following this link Wedding videographer page |
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Virgin Voyager Train Passing Conwy Castle in North Wale; Virgin Trains London to Llandudno Service.
Conwy Castle is one of the most impressive Castles in the whole of the UK. Built for Edward I, by James of St George, the castle is amongst the finest surviving medieval Castles in Britain. From the grandeur of the towers and impressive and imposing walls the castle is in an excellent state of preservation. It is estimated that around £15,000 was spent building the castle, the largest sum Edward spent on any of his Welsh castles built to subdue the welsh people and maintain his control on the land.
Following a wedding near Rhyl in North Wales I traveled up to Conwy to take some photographs of the castle with trains passing it for a 2014 Calendar. The castle makes a wonderful backdrop for photographs of a Virgin Voyager Train.
Unfortunately I could only spend a couple of hours in the town and so I think I will need to return for another day and spend a longer time taking photographs of the area. Although I only managed to take a handful of photographs it shows that it would be worth spending more time in the town with my camera.
The photograph on the left was taken from the top of the town wall as another Virgin Voyager passes the castle on the North Wales Railway Line. There is something of a grandeur about the landscape with this modern train adding a dimension that is reminiscent of some kind of welsh dragon snaking its way through this medieval landscape.
]]>Best Western Hotels are becoming ever popular venues to hold weddings. The West Retford Hotel Wedding Venue, in Retford near Doncaster is one such wedding venue that has the added bonus of an outdoor pavilion allowing for weddings to be held outside in the spring and summer. That was why Sharleen and David chose this venue to hold their wedding. Although the English weather is not always suitable for holding weddings in the open air having the option is a certainly something that is nice to consider.
Looking back towards the hotel there is a wonderful view that really looks good and adds an element of grandeur to the wedding photos. However, due to the way the path has been laid the view from the other side that your wedding Gu
ests will have is slightly less grand. Although I suppose their focus will be on the bride and groom and not on the building in the background that takes your eye away from the main focus of the wedding photograph.
Best Western Hotels are all over the country and provide an exhalant wedding service. Some of their wedding venues are small and intermit such as the the Ullesthorpe Court Hotel & Golf Club near Lutterworth a wedding & party venue in Leicestershire is a 4 star hotel and spa on the boarder of the East Midlands and the West Midlands. But there are larger wedding venues in the chain that are able to hold larger wedding parties such as The West Retford Hotel Wedding Venue.
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Gemma and Terry chose the Quorn Grange hotel near Leicester as their wedding venue because of the eight acres of exquisite gardens. Getting married in May the couple wanted to take every advantage of the wonderful spring flowers and May blossom. Although in May you are never quite sure what the weather will be like, for Gemma and Terry the sun was shinning bright all through this wonderful spring day.
When Trevor retired from his role as a serving police officer for British Transport Police his colleagues decided to give him a really good send off. Unfortunately not everyone was able to join the celebrations because there is always need for some police officers to stay on duty. So I visited the police station and took some photographs of his colleagues who were on duty on the day of his farewell.
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he photographs from his farewell party and of the police officers who could not attend will be put together with old family photos to create an album for him to remember his life with the police service.
Whetstone Baptist Church is a thriving church that uses a contemporary worship style that offers a warm welcome to visitors.
Following the service the wedding party moved to Lutterworth Golf Course for the Wedding Breakfast.
Getting ready for the wedding
video of the bride getting ready for the wedding from makeup to the final touches to the wedding dress
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Sir William McAlpine
invites entries for the first (and probably only)
FAWLEY HILL STEAM and VINTAGE TRANSPORT WEEKEND
FUND-RAISING FOR SMALL CHARITIES
Ice sculptures are very photogenic and hand carved ice sculptures are as clear as crystal and may include engraved names and dates, are a fantastic way to introduce a real sense of luxury at any wedding.
As a Wedding centrepiece idea ice sculptures and ice carving for a wedding reception adds something special, even in hot weather an ice carving for a wedding will last around six hours. Generally weighing around 140lb ice sculptures are made order and carved on site they can be touched by your guests and will be admired by everyone who sees it, children in particular love them.
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Islamic weddings vary a great deal according to the traditions of the individuals concerned. I have been privileged to be invited to photograph at Muslim weddings and find the simplicity and tradition refreshing. The commitment to family and the values of the Islamic faith are a sharp contrast to some of the secular weddings I have attended.
Many people in the UK only think of the celebrations at a Pakistani or Bangladeshi wedding as an Islamic wedding. Muslims who marry in the UK are from very different cultures - for example Turkish, African, Malaysian, and European.
It is important to understand that the 'wedding' for many Muslims, it is the Islamic ceremony that is the genuine wedding, and not the affirmation of that wedding in a registry office. Although mosques are obviously places of worship, the majority of them in the UK have not been officially registered as such, and so any Islamic wedding that merely takes place at a mosque has to be registered legally with the UK law as well, in order to be a valid marriage in respect of the UK legal system.
This was the case with Fatima and her husband. The first step in the marriage process was the affirmation of that wedding in a registry office this was followed by a celebration that involved the bride’s family and female friends (for this part my daughter took the photographs) then the wedding itself with the prayers and blessing from the Imam. So for the wedding was spread over a week and we had to take photograph at three location, the registry office in Loughborough, a hotel in Loughborough and the Empire in Leicester.
The Empire Hall is a distinctive venue for weddings & conferences. A Grade II listed building and a historic landmark of Leicester, this magnificent venue is an ideal venue for your wedding
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Sparks is an amazing charity that funds medical research to increase the clinical understanding and treatment of conditions that affect mums to be, babies and children. In particular they have done some fantastic research into treatment for children suffering with cerebral palsy.
As a parent of a child who has a disability Emma is always thinking about his future and any treatment that can help his condition and benefit his day to day life. It's so important to know that a charity like sparks are making fantastic medical advances into not only Joshua's condition, but also numerous other conditions that affect babies and children.
Emma would really appreciate any donations to this cause, whether big or small, so please dig and donate to this worthy cause via Emma's Just Giving Page for Sparks
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Come and visit Soft Tones Photography on Sunday 14th April 2013, as Catthorpe Manor will be throwing open its doors to engaged couples from all over the Midlands, to their annual Spring Wedding Fair
A very wide variety of wedding specialists and exhibitors will be in attendance, displaying everything one might wish for to make their special day perfect.
Viewings of the estate are by appointment only. Please contact Helen on 01788 524131 or use the email address below, to arrange to see the venue. Email Catthorpe Manor
Telephone Numbers
Main Line: 01788 860599
Weddings, Events, Corporate Enquiries: 01788 524131
Accommodation & Residential Enquiries: 01788 524132
Sheltered Accommodation: 01788 524124
Email Catthorpe Manor
]]>Although there has been a lot of rain over the last few years the field that is being used is well drained and we are hopeful that the weather will be kind to them and give them a wonderful sunny day for their wedding.
Having your reception on your Mother and Father's farm is such a wonderful idea for anyone who has the opportunity to do so. It gives you the freedom to have everything the way you want it without the wedding venue putting on any restrictions, although you may need to fence off the slurry pit in case one of the more spirited wedding guests try to go for a late night swim ;-)
]]>We had a good time at the NEC Wedding Show. It was a real pleasure meeting so many Brides, Grooms and other wedding suppliers. There was such a wonderful atmosphere and I think despite all the sore feet from walking around everyone had a good time.
I am grateful to Emma, my wonderful daughter, for all her hard work over the weekend and to Jessica my other wonderful teenage daughter who only hindered a little ;-)
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Autumn and Winter Weddings: Crisp, still, autumn and winter mornings, the mist like gossamer lies between the contours of the earth; and the golden rays of sunrise augment the subtle shades of red, browns and yellows of the autumn leaves as the colours spill from the woodland; this can be the most spell binding season for a wedding. When choosing a colour scheme for your wedding it is easy to choose from the array of beautiful pastel shades that complement the natural autumnal colours and an ivory wedding dress can help reduce the harsh contrast of white in autumn sunshine.
Every wedding is of course magical and unique, though there are elements that that give all weddings a common thread. The flowers, the dress, even the cake lend a sense of continuity from one wedding to the next, yet in every wedding the variation of these three simple elements shows the style and taste of the bride, and allows for the unique personalities of the bride and groom to shine through. Your wedding is not only magical and unique; it is an expression of the love and commitment you have for each other.
If you are planning to have your wedding photographs on a lawn our under the golden canopy of the autumn trees; there are disadvantages that should be considered by the bride and groom in relation to the great British weather, regardless of the time of year, but especially in the Autumn and winter.
The first is that most brides, and indeed a large percentage of the female guests, choose to wear shoes with heals. With the even the most well drained garden the tendency is to sink into the soft earth, often ruining those delicate and expensive shoes. It is advisable if you are planning to have photographs in the grounds of your wedding venue to have a spare pair of flat shoes, so not to damage your wedding shoes. Having comfortable footwear to change into will help keep your feet from becoming painful and will help lessen fatigue, keeping you happy and full of fun late into the evening.
The second issue is the ever present threat of rain; but rain need not spoil your day or your photographs. Utilising the internal decor of your wedding venue is the first and most obvious place to start. But with a little imagination and the use of umbrellas the photographs can be fun and surprisingly atmospheric. Remember to use your bride's maids to, to both hold the umbrellas and to keep the train of your wedding dress off the wet ground.
One final issue to highlight is 'low light', Autumn nights draw in quickly, and if there is cloud cover then the day appears to be even shorter. In late afternoon the quality of light can be very poor. Try to schedule in to your day, as early as possible, time to spend getting those all important images that will last a lifetime. After all, the cake is eaten, the flowers wilt, and the dress may be worn once, but it is your photographs that will help carry the memory of your wedding day, and it is those images that will be shared with your children and grandchildren in years to come.
One of the best wedding venues in Leicestershire is Catthorpe Manor; where together with the stately ambiance of the old Manor House and the elegant, mature grounds your wedding photographs will have the elegance and sophistication you deserve. Although, with such a wonderful setting, any time of the year will create an atmosphere of serene and composed beauty as a backdrop for your wedding.
A lot of couples love quirky photographs; but often on the day the 'happy couple' are not so happy to try out some of those same poses on the day that they originally wanted because they find they are too embarrassed. This is natural and if you find that on your wedding day you decide to change the style of photographs, then your wedding photographer should be understanding and accommodating, remember, it is your day, and it is your wedding album; you need to feel happy and comfortable with both the photographer and the photographs. Above all, enjoy your wedding and enjoy having your photographs taken.
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Traditional Wedding Photography often entails a more formal approach to the wedding photography the other styles such as cor reportage wedding photography. A traditional wedding photographer will photograph to a set list of photographs in order to ensure that specific set pieces are not missed. It is incorrect to think of Traditional wedding photography as simply referring to lots of group photographs as it more accurately focuses on the structure of the day and the key moments, signing of the register, cutting the cake, first dance. A photographer will attempt to photograph the key images for each stage of the wedding in a controlled and posed style arranging group photos and posing the bride and groom for portrait images.
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ere are advantages to this style of photography because you can be sure that the photographs will cover all of the main points of your day and will give you images that will look good. However it does involve a great deal of control being given to the photographer who will order guests around to get the required images. I was photographing at the West Retford Hotel, in Retford near Doncaster, when another wedding party arrived; the photographer was very ‘old school’ and controlling. I confess I was both horrified and slightly amused when the photographer produced a whistle to bring order to the proceedings. This was just a little OTT from my point of view.
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There is a lot more planning involved in contemporary wedding photography then there is in any other form of wedding photography. A photographer needs to plan the shoot in advance will need to visit the venue to select the best locations for the individual pictures. With the emphasis being placed more on artistic or interesting poses, the use of light and background are seen as more important and integral to the composition and the images will often be re-touched and photo effects applied in postproduction.
Constantly evolving, contemporary wedding photography is driven by the constant competition between photographers innovate and to create new and stimulating images that show a level of uniqueness that ensures a constant development of approaches and styles.
When considering this form of photography for your wedding there are a number of things to consider. The obvious considerations are whether or not you like the style of the images in the sample work of the photographer. You must also be comfortable with posing as directed by the photographer. If you are not comfortable with having your photograph you may find that rather than being relaxed during the photo shoot you will be stiff and uncomfortable and this will show through in the final pictures. You also need to understand that this style is more creative and therefore it takes more time to set up and you will therefore need to set aside more time for the photography. Another important point to remember is that there will be fewer photographs for you to choose from then if you chose a reportage or traditional style of wedding photography.
There are some things you can do to help with some of the above issues. If you are uncomfortable with having you photo taken or posing for photographs then you can consider a pre-wedding shoot, this will help you feel comfortable with your photographer and the confidence to know that the photographs will look good. If time is an issue then you could also consider a post-wedding shoot where only the bride and groom are photographed. Of course if the groom’s suit is a hired suit this then you would need to consider rehiring it for the day.
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Reportage is a contemporary form of photography. While the term contemporary wedding photography describes any wedding photography that is not of a usual or traditional style of wedding photography, in reportage wedding photography the emphasis is on the contemporary nature of wedding photography as a form of documentary wedding photography also referred to as wedding photojournalism.
Reportage is highlights the more candid or un-posed photographs that appear to be of a more natural style, focusing on telling the story of your wedding day through the wedding photography; capturing the day as it unfolds without being intrusive. This style has really become possible with the advent of digital photography as the photographer can take hundreds of pictures and edit the photographs after the wedding.
The main thing to consider when considering this as style of photography for your wedding is how long are you willing to spend posing for photographs on your wedding day; most couples prefer that the photographer will combine a mix of photographic styles to ensure the
wedding photographs are acceptable to everyone. Granny may be expecting the more traditional set posed style of photograph while those of a more youthful disposition may prefer a reportage style wedding photographs. It is perfectly possible therefore to also shoot a small number of formal group photographs, and spend the rest of the day photographing a more contemporary style of wedding photography with a balance of candid photographs shot throughout the wedding day allowing the wedding album to tell the story of your wedding. This style of wedding album is often referred to as a ‘story book album’ or a ‘coffee table album’ because it has the look and feel of an album that can be left on display all the time.
It is important to remember however, that even with contemporary wedding photography where the style is one of photojournalism; the reportage wedding photography still requires interaction with the wedding photographer, otherwise there is a danger of just having a set of snap shots that actually fail to meet your expectations. Every wedding is unique and every wedding photographer will focus on different aspects of your wedding so be sure you take the time to talk to your photographer about the details and individuals that you feel are essential for your wedding photographer to photograph.
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Get 20% off the entry price for the NEC National Wedding Show just quote discount code NECS13 before the 7th of February 2013
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At the most basic level a wedding is all about the Bride and Groom and their commitment
to each other through the exchanging of wedding vows and the giving and receiving of rings; but there is so much more to a wedding then this. A wedding is a theatrical set, with the central characters always taking central stage and like a lot good stories this is a three act play. Act one is the preparation, the hair and make-up for the wedding. Act two is the ceremony exchanging of wedding vows and the giving and receiving of rings. The third act is the Wedding Breakfast or Wedding Reception, this climaxes with the first dance. As a photographer it is my role to tell the story of your wedding day through the wedding photographs. Although every wedding follows this general format and structure with the same story being reenacted time and time again by happy couples every week, each bride wants to make her wedding both memorable and unique.
To make your wedding both memorable and unique you spend time on the little details that make your wedding just that little bit more special. Wedding decoration for the top table or for the guests are very important for creating that all important 'memorable' factor. As you create the feel of the wedding, the ambiance of the wedding reception then your creativity can fly and you can create the wedding of your dreams.
But it is not always the wedding favours and table decorations that are the little details that can be overlooked; sometimes it can be the little people at the wedding that make such a special impression. Photographing the little things or the little people at wedding is something that some photographers overlook; but for me they are all part of the story of your wedding day.
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There are many towns and villages that have thatched Cottages, often people say that they are "chocolate box" houses, referring to the fact that on speciality boxes of chocolates a 'typical country scene' would be pictured on the lid of the box and this usual focused on a traditional Thatched Cottage. This box of chocolates has clearly been put into the freezer for safe keeping. because there is no guttering to carry the water from the melting snow icicles have formed like some kind of natural Christmas decoration.
For more pictures of frost visit a winter wonderland
]]>The Bride and Groom Dance while the Bride's Father Plays The Piano at Cadbury House near Bristol. This is the type of photograph that means a lot to the Bride and Groom as a photograph that captures a little moment that is special just to them. As a photograph it is nothing special but as a memory it is priceless. I think it captures a little of the personality of the happy couple.
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There can be little dispute that one of the greatest love stories if not the greats love story is that of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare. It is from this classic play that we get the phase "a rose by any other name would smell as sweet"
From Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet:
'Tis but thy name that is my enemy; Thou art thyself, though not a Montague. What's Montague? it is nor hand, nor foot, Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part Belonging to a man. O, be some other name! What's in a name? that which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet...'
Love and the need for Companionship, transcend barriers; barriers of class wealth, age and nationality, politics and religion; but also the barrier of social conformity. Because, love is a gift that we give to those we care for and the gift we receive from those who care for us. Yet for some there is a difference in the outworking of that love. Marriage in Great Britain at this time is the exclusive right of heterosexual couples, but for those who are in same sex relationships marriage is not available. Some people say that the Civil Partnership is simply “a rose by another name” if that is true then why can same sex couples not have a full Civil Marriage?
There are similarities between both Civil Partnership and Civil Marriage. In both a civil partnership and a civil marriage, the couples are required to give public notice of the intentions. The records of both are kept as official and public documents with the registry offices. Couples are required to wait a total of 15 days prior to registration but after giving notice of the partnership. After the waiting period of 15 day's the registration is given, it is then valid for one year after the date of registration.
On a technical level there are differences. A partnership is formed when the second of the two parties signs the partnership papers. This is not necessarily a public ceremony or even an event that happens at the same time as the first signature. This flexibility means that couples can essentially become partnered in private, if they wish. In contrast, a marriage happens when the partners exchange spoken words and also sign the register. There are also the implications with the religious overtones of the word marriage, and although I fully respect the points of view from both sides of the divide it I do feel that there needs to be a harmonisation of the two.
I have been asked what are the main differences when it comes to the photography at Gay and Lesbian Weddings. Short of re-quoting “a rose by another name” all I can say is that when you have a couple who love each other then there is no difference. I have never said "I am photographing a heterosexual wedding" so why would I see any difference between a 'same sex partnership' to a 'different sex partnership'. Beautiful people deserve beautiful wedding photography.
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Cadbury House is one of the South West’s finest four-star hotel and spa. Called DoubleTree the hotel is owned by the Hilton Chain. The complex is also home to the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. Located 30 minutes from Bristol DoubleTree by Hilton, Cadbury House, also close to both junction 20 and 21 of the M5 motorway and Yatton Train Station which is on the mainline to Bristol Temple Meads Station. The hotel is also convenient for Bristol Airport which is only a 15 minutes drive away.
With wonderful views across the Bristol Channel and beyond into Wales, Cadbury House, is the perfect place for a wedding or wedding reception. The grounds of Cadbury house give a lot of photographic opportunities. A Bride and Groom will be spoiled for choice when it comes to using the landscape and the house as a setting for the wedding photography.
If you are looking for an elegant and stylish way to arrive at your wedding, I would recommend you talk to Jayne Hobbs at ‘England’s Finest Cars’.
England's Finest Wedding Cars have been providing wedding car hire in Bristol and Bath for almost twenty years and have three beautiful ivory vintage style convertibles. The wedding cars are three matching convertible's and each one is driven by a lady chauffeur in a traditional chauffeur style uniformed providing a service that is 'second to none'. Over the years I have seen a lot of wedding cars and a lot of wedding chauffeurs, but I have never been as impressed with the level of service provided then I am with the service provided by Jayne Hobbs and her team.
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Choosing a colour scheme can be tricky. Some colours work well together and others clash with hideous consequences. But, beauty is, as they say, ‘in the eye of the beholder’. If it is your wedding you have the colour combination that is best for you and matches you idea of the perfect wedding. Your wedding colour scheme should enhance your day and not overpower and dominate your day.
This is a classic and bold Colour Scheme and is perfect for any time of year. If your wedding is in the summer white accents will help make the Colour scheme bright and light. For autumnal or winter weddings add in brown hues to create a warm and pleasant colour scheme for your wedding bouquet or decorations.
This is a neutral Colour scheme that is also perfect for a wedding any time of year. If you use brown as the base Colour for table decorations and bridesmaid dresses; you could use pink flowers to accent both of these Colours will look good and will create a classic look.
Purple and Blue will add the perfect touch to a spring or summer wedding. By adding deep purples and light blues you will create an exciting and elegant colour combination for your wedding.
A rich colour scheme is cranberry and pink especially when you choose to use a black and white Colour Scheme as a foundation so the bright accent colours stand out. Splashes of pink and cranberry are just right for the details and accessories like napkins and wedding favours.
These bold, natural colours work well together for an autumn or winter wedding. In an autumn wedding the colours match the natural world and bring the outdoors inside. For a winter wedding they bring colour and vibrancy bring warmth and depth to the colour scheme.
This is just the thing for a modern and elegant summer wedding. Light green flowers, such as green roses with corresponding banana leaves in a bouquet, are a good way to accent a white wedding dress. Pale green dresses for your bridesmaids with a black sash and accents like the black-and-white ribbon-wrapped bouquets add will add a touch of elegance to your colour combination.
If you choose to use blue and whites in your wedding Colour scheme you can create an elegant and stylish colour scheme that will easily flow from table settings, to the bridal bouquet giving a simple and elegant theme. For a blue and white bouquet you consider using flowers such as white or cream roses and blue hydrangeas. If you want your bridesmaids to have blue dresses then choose a rich and vibrant colour that will complement the rest of the blue shades in your Wedding Colour Scheme.
The deep rust tones are just right for a beautiful autumn wedding. White and deep red roses harmonising with prominent orange flowers make for an elegant bridal bouquet. You could be confidant and use orange for your table decorations or bridesmaid dresses, if you find the colours a little harsh you can soften the Colour scheme with plash of white or cream to bring a gentle touch to this confident colour scheme.
If you prefer a more subtle tone then this classic pair of colours are, perfect for a spring or summer wedding. However using pale shades against an ivory wedding dress the bridal bouquet can get a little lost so it is worth considering an accent colour if your wedding dress is a darker shade of ivory.
When it comes to your wedding you are the star of the show. The Wedding bouquet should not be the centre of attention but help highlight the beauty of the bride as a wedding photographer I have found that some brides have put so-much thought into not having the same colours as other brides that they have forgotten that the day is all about her and her groom and not about what anyone else has had or done.
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This means frosty, icy mornings, and perhaps even a little snow.
All of these things have the capacity to radically alter the look and feel of our environment, changing the well-known scenery around us exquisite.
If you are going out to take some photographs; be Prepared and Stay Warm when setting out cold weather with your camera, it is a good idea to be well equipped! Take gloves and hand warmers with you if you are going to be out for a long time; time and again you will need to take your hands out of your gloves and it can get increasingly more and more difficult to get them warm again.
It is also worth taking a spare battery, as cold temperatures reduce the power and therefore the battery life. Keep your spare batteries in an inside pocket to keep it warm and fully charged cold batteries loose power.
Take a look at some wintery photography
]]>Recently I was in the centre of Leicester with my youngest daughter, Jessica, when we noticed this window overlooking the car park we had stopped at. Jess borrowed one of my cameras to take some pictures of this boarded and broken window. The course brick and mortar adds a texture to the image that you don't get with modern bricks. The glass is broken in some of the windowpains creating a contrast between the light reflective surface of the glass and the old wooden board used on the inside of the widow to make the widow secure.
Well done Jess!
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Getting Married on New Year's Eve is probably the best way to ensure that you never forget your wedding anniversary. Nikki and Ian’s wedding on the last day of the year made the New Year celebrations just that little bit special for everyone at the wedding, including the Bride and Groom.
]]>Emma and Stewart were married near Wolverhampton and Birmingham and had work diligently for months to plan their “perfect” wedding. Every detail was addressed and decided upon. Contingency plans are devised, schedules are finalised, and preparations are thoroughly organised and arranged. In the hotel where the wedding reception was held there was a corridor with some plaster reliefs and a mirror. While I was disappointed with the colour scheme on the walls and carpet I was quite pleased with the results.
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Sometimes there is a real perk to the job. Usually it is a bit of wedding cake at a wedding but this time it was a little play in a car. Taking to the track for an unforgettable driving experience at Bruntingthorpe circuit was a lot of fun and I am very grateful to my corporate client for allowing me to have such an experience.
Youtube Uploaded on Feb 9, 2007 For Those who want to know why I did not video myself in the car here is one of Jeremy Clarkson challenges on Top Gear when he proved the Ariel is more fun than a motorbike - with astounding results. The speed is unlike any car or motorcycle on the road today. Great Fun to watch! |
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Road signs are something that I have never really taken much notice of... let me rephrase that because I always take notice of them!
I have never really considered the technology that goes into the production of road signs and the technical side of the nature of the reflective nature of the materials used. A recent photography job was to record the contrast between daylight and night effectiveness of road safety signs.
It is interesting, and when I think about it logical, that The artwork of traffic signs is covered by a waiver and may therefore be reproduced free of charge, without the need to obtain permission, subject to it being reproduced accurately and not used in a misleading context. Although the copyright source of the material must also be acknowledged. This explains how so many companies can be involved with the development of road signs.
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The Visual Effect
Traffic signs play a vital role in directing, informing and controlling road users’ behaviour in an effort to make the roads as safe as possible for everyone. This makes a the effectiveness of road traffic sign visibility essential. To ensure that the UK has a uniform traffic signing system, signs must conform to the designs prescribed in the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions |
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The Severn Valley Railway Remembrance services held on the 11th of November 2012, remembrance Sunday, was the last of the Railway Remembrance Services that I attended.
Each year the Severn Valley railway marks remembrance Sunday with a service of remembrance on the station concourse. The stations war memorial records the names of those servicemen from the Great War who worked for the Great Western Railway. Recorded on the role of honour of the names of around 1700 servicemen who lost their lives during the 1914 - 1918 conflict.
A short list of names was taken from this war memorial and those names were edged out during the service as a representation of the great sacrifice that all of these paid for our freedom and liberty. As the names were and so too with their military rank and their role and place of work within the railway before the war. Giving their names as well as their role in civilian life and is a special poignancy to the service. These names each represented a life; a life that was lived in the normality of pre First World War British Society. Some were married with children others were too young to be married. Boiler makers and porters drivers and guards each one person who was loved and cared for by friends and family. Ticket inspectors and roster clerks, managers and cleaners remember today both as individuals and as a company of brave soldiers who gave their lives in the service of their country.
We don't honour, and we don't glorify the notion of war; but we do honour the memory of those Lives' or tragically lost; so that we may not forget and that we may learn from the mistakes of the past and perhaps never again see such a great and tragic waste of life. Yet we know there are soldiers, Sailors and airmen and women serve to this day to keep us safe from our aggressors. And to those who served today in our armed services we give our thanks. We remember so that we do not forget, we honour so that they may not be forgotten, and we give Glory to God that one day there shall be peace on earth.
]]>Since the early times man has tried to achieve the impossible, to obtain immortality. From seeking the Alexia of life for to finding the fountain of youth, from being immortalised in stone to being captured in canvass, there has been a desire to be remembered by the coming generations. It is perhaps one of the saddest factors of the First World War that although thousands perished in some of the most horrific conditions ever inflicted on the ordinary soldier, it is these poor souls that have been immortalised through our remembrance services. Nevertheless, we stop also to remember those who have lost their lives in the services of their country right up until the present day with the tragic loss of life in Afghanistan.
The railway industry perhaps more than any other industrial sector honors those who served, fort and died in the military conflicts of the last 100 years.
From Bristol to Birmingham London to Glasgow, York to Preston all across the railway network railway stations and depots have
memorials to those who served in the armed forces; many of whom are never returned. It is at these war memorials to railway staff from the train operating companies, network rail, British transport police and the engineering and maintenance companies come to remember those who have gone before. These services of remembrance are held on a variety of days through the week leading up to remembrance Sunday. This is because they are on active railway property and the services are attended by serving railway staff. In some places such as Paddington Railway Station or the Severn Valley Railway services are held on remembrance day itself but for the majority in order to allow railway staff to participate the services are held during the week.
I counted an honour to be invited to make a record of some of these services through the use of my photography. I believe it is important not just to remember those who have served and died, but those who actively serve today in our armed forces. It is important for this nation to remember and reflect on both the horror of war and the determination for peace.
Although we may not remember the individuals who served and lost their lives in the Fields of Flanders, because as the generations past and fade into history those loved ones and their memory fades into the past, if it is the thousands who died in such awful conditions that have achieved an immortality in the hearts and minds of a grateful nation. But we should never forget that even today sons and daughters, perhaps of those we know or perhaps our own, face death on a foreign shore as they serve in our armed forces.
A the railway station may seem to be a strange place to hold the remembrance service; yet it is from these places of work that so many left and never returned. As an industry and as a railway family the lost our remembered. So next time you wander through the railway station take time to stop and pause look to see if there is a war memorial and if there is take time to stop them pay your respects to those who have gone before.
If you would like to see a selection of photographs from the London Euston remembrance service could please visit this link: London remembrance service photographs
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November is the time when we think with a little more clarity of the great sacrifice made those who served their country and ultimately lost their lives. In every village, town and city across the country young and old honour the memory of those who served and those who did not return from conflicts; but it is perhaps not so well known that all over the country there are acts of remembrance on railway stations and in railway depots.
Railway Companies honoured the soldiers, sailors and Airmen that served in the First World War and the Second World War.
]]>Situated at the southern tip of Lake Windermere in Cumbria, The Swan is a truly magical of the location with attractive, luxury accommodation designed to suit your needs. the function suites and Ballroom are the perfect setting for your ceremony.
The Wedding breakfasts can be served in the stylish conservatory with your evening reception inside and around the private bar in The Club Room. The Swan can cater for up to 100 guests during the day and 150 guests in the evening.
It’s the attention to detail that makes a successful and unforgettable wedding. Brides and grooms looking for an exceptional, elegant and contemporary wedding venue have the opportunity for some truly beautiful landscape photos.
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When I arrived at the house photograph the Mark and his best man getting ready for the wedding, I was not overly surprised to be greeted by a rather sleepy best man and the news that the Groom was still in bed and had little or no recollection of the arrangements for me to come and photograph the preparations before the wedding.
Having already been to the church and taken some photographs of the church the extra hour and a half gave me enough time to head a few miles down the road and take some interesting photographs of the local Rail Freight Terminal (well it was to far to go home and I could not think of anything else to do on a Saturday morning with two canon cameras and an hour and a half of free time).
The church was a beautiful old building, but the Vicar wanted me to stand either one side or the other; One side I would have had the bride and groom with their backs to me, on the other I would have the Bride’s father with his back to me but the Bride and Groom would almost be in profile; so I chose the other. Unfortunately after the Father of the Bride gave his daughter in marriage the Vicar neglected to tell him to be seated and he stood for the rest of the service obscuring my view of the happy couple and thereby limiting the photographs of the wedding ceremony.
Still as they say 'all is well that ends well' and with the sunshine the day could not have been better for the happy couple. Brownsover Hall Hotel is a Grade II listed Victorian Gothic mansion nestling in 7 acres of woodland and garden. This magnificent building has a dramatic red interior with sweeping staircase. Brownsover Hall Hotel is the perfect venue for your Wedding as not only is it a beautiful, charming and historic property but we also offer a professional and dedicated team.
There is so much Joy in the birth of a new baby. At just two weeks old Baby Hayes' this joy just shines through on the faces of both Mummy and Daddy who live near Bristol.
It is often said that your wedding is the Happiest Day of your life, but as a father of four I think the day your first child is born is by far the best. Although that is not to say the the other three children gave my wife and I any less joy then the first.
Danielle contacted me after she had done the Lazy Daisy® antenatal classes in Bristol and took advantage of the special offer with our Baby Photography website.
Whether you have just discovered your pregnant, have an ever increasing bump or are already enjoying your new arrival this programme has classes to make sure you are fully prepared for the journey ahead.
All Lazy Daisy® teachers are FEDANT approved Antenatal Educators and can assist you through pregnancy and birth with fun, inspiring and effective antenatal education (Daisy Birthing® classes). Classes combine gentle pregnancy yoga inspired movement alongside active birth education, breathing techniques, relaxation and self hypnosis. Weekly classes really work and help you to enjoy every step of pregnancy whilst looking forward to a positive birth. |
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Caroline and Dipesh were married at Carolin's family church in Solihull followed by a reception at the Forest of Arden Marriott Hotel and Golf Course one of the West Midlands Largest Wedding Vennues
Vicky and Ashley chose the unassuming The Westfield House Hotel for their wedding.
However, the Westfield House Hotel in the leafy suburb of Blaby is a deceptively specious wedding venue. Less than 7 miles from Leicester city centre and set within landscaped gardens, Westfield House Hotel in Leicester offers extensive facilities including 48 spacious and modern bedrooms as well as suites, a restaurant, 5 meeting rooms and an indoor swimming pool.
Should you choose the Westfield House Hotel for your wedding the excellent service and attention to detail you will receive from the staff will help make your wedding day as special as you could possibly want.
With a choice of function suites the Westfield House Hotel is ideal for both an intimate family gathering and a wedding banquet. The Bosworth function suite can accommodate up to 100 wedding guests for your wedding breakfast and reception.
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Vicky and Ashley were married at Countersthorpe just outside of Leicester.
The wedding and the wedding reception were all held in the one location. So the day was nice and stress free for me and also for the happy couple.
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The Royal Hotel Ashby-De-La-Zouch has a wonderful staircase that sweeps down to the main foyer on two sides, making a great setting for group photos. So if the weather outside is not to good, then you can still rely on the interior to make your wedding photographs look great.
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Witham and Blues is an entertainment, party and wedding venue with a 120 seater function suite, but having only quite recently opened they were able to accommodate at short notice Heather and Gary’s wedding. Another Local hotel, the White Heart Boston, was used for the Bride and Bride’s Maids to get ready.
Everyone pulled together to get the wedding preparations done on time. Even as the bride’s maids were having their hair and make-up done for the wedding, Heather set about organising the table plan for the guests. Instead of the usual name cards for the table places, Heather used photo’s of the guests instead of name cards.
The torrential rain that deluged parts of the country stopped for that day and the sun shone. The brightness was such that we often had to find areas of shade for people to stand in as the light reflecting of the white walls of the venue made folk squint; but with the ground so wet people sank into the ground. Nevertheless, despite all the problems, the wedding was a great success.
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Shearsby Bath is a beautiful place to hold your wedding. Set in the Leicestershire countryside near Lutterworth and Rugby.
As a venue Shearsby Bath is a unique wedding venue offering delightful and elegant décor, with a relaxing ambiance. as a family run venue Shearsby Bath is both friendly and well maintained.
Enfield Registry Office is a has a park across the road where a small pedestrian bridge has become known as the Wedding Bridge because of all of the Bride and Groom photographs that have been taken there.
At this wedding I was only there for the ceremony and for about an hour in the park. A long way to travel just for two hours, but worth it.
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The Sunley Conference Centre as wedding venue and offers great value tailor-made packages for civil ceremonies and civil partnerships as well as a wide range of options for wedding breakfasts and evening receptions.
The superb facilities comprise a conservatory, lounge area, function rooms and bar area overlooking the charming south facing patio and water garden.
Jenny and Matt were serenaded by an Elton John Tribute act for the traditional wedding first dance at the Sunley Conference Centre and wedding venue in Northampton.
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The NEC Wedding Show is one of the best, if not the best wedding show in the country. If you are visiting the show over the weekend please stop by stand B51 and say 'hello'. If you are a bride, groom or just visiting, then we would love to see you.
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Congratulations to Jody and Darren who won the battle of the brides on Living TV’s programme Four Weddings.
Jody and Darren from Gainsborough competed with three other brides marking each other’s wedding. The couple won the honeymoon of a lifetime to Cuba.
The happy couple held their Classical, shabby chic style wedding at the Crown hotel in Bawtry – one of the best wedding venues in South Yorkshire. Jody looked amazing, and after champagne and canapés after the ceremony, the wedding guests tucked into a starter of Yorkshire pudding followed by fish, chips and peas!
Good luck to Jody and Darren in their married life together.
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