If you're a regular reader of this blog, you might recall this happy couple and their main man, Eric the bulldog who featured heavily in Richard and Hayley's Capture You session (view it here).

When we met for coffee for the first time, Hayley & Richard admitted that they weren't the most comfortable in front of a camera and really didn't enjoy posing for photos. So our Capture You session was a great way for us all to get to know one another and for me to put the happy couple at ease.

The April wedding date sprung upon us and the sunshine made a grateful appearance over the stunning Bartle Hall wedding venue in Preston.

Choosing Bartle Hall for both the ceremony and reception gave me the perfect opportunity to scope out some stunning backdrops for the photos. Having experienced Bartle Hall before, I knew that in addition to the daytime shots and greenery of the grounds, the atmospheric exterior lighting gave me a great opportunity to shoot some night time portraits.

The black and gold theme was super stylish and luxurious, really impressing guests and other wedding suppliers who noted the luxe textures decorating the stunning venue.

Hayley's dress has to be mentioned here for it's intricate detailing that helped add depth to my images and showed off her stunning features.

Eric the bulldog of course, made a much welcome appearance. Suited and booted, he joined us as Hayley, Richard and I walked him around the grounds before I blended into the background, capturing the natural shots and the true emotion and love between the couple.

The evening was such a lot of fun, complete with casino tables and even an Elvis impersonator (Hayley is a big fan). Plus I think she's the only bride I've captured crowd surfing!

There was a nod to Richard's former military background with huge confetti canons at multiple points along the day and it was his suggestion to use smoke bombs in some of the more atmospheric shots - I love it when couples also have their own creative ideas!

Overall, this laid back and happy day was filled to the rafters with a large family and a great group of friends - all on hand to give Richard and Hayley the most perfect wedding day that they will remember forever.

Many happy returns to you both, thank you for choosing me to honour your special day in images.

Looking for a wedding photographer in Lancashire?

Fancy a coffee and a chat about your own upcoming wedding and whether I'm the right man to capture your day? Simply click here to arrange a coffee in Kirkham or Preston on any Tuesday of your choice, at a time that suits you so we can chat about the vision for your dream day.

Matt

Matt Herrington | Wedding Photographer | Lancashire and North West