Zahra and Drew

After two years of ‘mini-monies’ a year of small but beautiful weddings, guest attendance via zoom and all sorts, it seems like we are entering a wedding season that almost looks…. well.. normal!

Meeting Zahra and Drew for a 1:1 - in person - meeting, to talk through their special day, was the first of many beautiful moments in my journey with this couple.

The wedding was set at the beautiful Georgian location of Linden House Riverside.

Perfectly placed along the most beautiful stretch of the Thames, a short walk away from Hammersmith Bridge, where 007 had his riverside chat, and Closing Doors’ Gwyneth Paltrow sees her-self, where you can find a hidden victorian pub hanging over the river where you can watch the Ox-Bridge crews battle it out on the tideway every spring fighting for bragging rights for their university rowing club.

Spring time view of the river Thames from Linden House

Needless to say, when Zahra and Drew told me they wanted some mice photos together, my head was swimming with locations to photograph them at. It was a beautiful day, with a little cloud so as not to overheat anyone, a warm breeze and beautiful soft summer light. The tow path was bustling and the river full of athletes gettgin ready for the height of the season.

‘Knock Knock’

I’m at Zahra’s door, eager to meet her bridal party and see her dress… there have been whispers of how amazing it is.. and I cant wait!

I’m met with a huge and very warm welcome by her bridesmaids and mum, in the throws of getting ready and stopping for a chat and some of the breakfast nibbles displayed deliciously on the kitchen table. Early as always, we get to chat, look at all the wedding goodies and photograph everythign within reaching distance! I love it!

‘…and the dress is epic!’

Off I trot to Linden House to check in on the decorations, groom and general wellbeing of all the suppliers! It’s breathtaking! the staircase is a cascade of flowers and greenery like a spring meadow running up the spiral staircase, beautiful designed by Flowers by Louise, the ball room minimalist, elegant and set for a beautiful ceremony and the captains room, has been transformed into a dreamy after dinner area where I can imagine, coffees, chatting, elegant chocolates… ahhh, I cant wait!

Drew is looking dashing in his three piece and after a visit to the local has walked off the groom’s morning nerves and is ready for his portraits. I didn’t tell him this at the time, but his wedding day hitters were actually showing up on camera perfectly - his posture was on point and he was working that James Bond vibe like nobodies business! Damn Drew! you’re on fire!

The guests arrive and the day starts gaining momentum, the energy starts to rise with the chatter and then we are all hands on to sneak Zahra into the Captain’s room for her portraits and to met the registrar who will be conducting the service. The light from the windows is beautiful and she is a true giggler, looking utterly Devine in her lace, low back dress, bouquet an array of foliage and a touch of peach, she is a vision of spring and happiness.

It’s time!

The ceremony has started and we’re all poised in anticipation to hear their hand written vows. Heartfelt and beautiful, they have entranced all of us.

Couple sit on the steps infant of a red door

We manage to access the pontoon for the couple shots. As an ex rower at the club, the officials have kindly allowed me to use it, knowing that I will take care, and understand the safety aspects, that being said, I don’t usually boat in a gown and high heels! so lots and lots of care is taken getting on and off the floating platform.

We have a beautiful relaxed session photographing just the three of us, and we return to be greeted by happy guests dressed in beautiful dresses and suits fit for a summers day.

The day stretched out in a long beautiful rolling bliss, full of love, happiness, laughter and giggles. kind words, cheeky moments, smiles and hugs.

A riverside dream, and one that I am honoured to have been able to share.