Being an Oxford wedding photographer really has its perks. One of the best is photographing at the beautiful College Chapels, steeped in history, tradition and an atmosphere of learning. I’ve photographed at so many colleges but some weddings really stand out. Alix and Chris’ was one such memorable wedding.
The ceremony took place in Hertford College Chapel. It was a meaningful venue for Alix as she studied there and couldn’t be better placed right in the heart of Oxford. The Chapel itself is traditional in its style and was built in 1908. It is known for being a quiet and serene spot despite its central location. It has a perfect acoustic, and is home to the musical life of Hertford College.
Speaking of music, for Alix’s entrance, they had the Hornpipe from Handel’s Water Music. During the ceremony, they sang the rousing anthem Jerusalem, and during the signing of the register, they had Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring, and for our exit, they had the Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, also by Handel.
Visually the colours of the wedding were corals, pinks and peonies – a stunning, bold palette which is reflected in the bouquets, table decorations, invitation cards and bridesmaids’ dresses. Alix’s favourite colour is coral and she chose the bridesmaids’ dresses as not only the perfect complement to her dress but because she knew that with the lace detailing and the V detail on the neckline, it would look very flattering on all three bridesmaids.
Alix’s gorgeous dress is an all-over lace design in ivory by Lusan Mandongus, with cap-sleeves, a deep V-neck and lace back. She customised the dress by removing the peplum detail and replacing it with a jewelled ivory belt.
For the reception, Hertford College took on a romantic atmosphere, with candles lighting the dining room during the wedding breakfast and speeches. For the first dance, the couple chose ‘Rather Be’ by Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glynne – a meaningful song for them that reminds them of the time that Chris proposed in 2014. The lift they’d been rehearsing was alright on the night – luckily, because one of the rehearsals at home ended with Alix on the floor!
The wedding had a very fun and playful vibe, as is apparent from the smiles all around. With just the right blend of tradition and unique twists on old favourites, Alix and Chris’ wedding was a joy to photograph and I hope they will cherish the pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them.
Dress- Teokath
Makeup – Natasha French
Jewellery – Glitzy Secret
Flowers- The Garden
Band- Super Spokes
Cake – Pork Pie Cake from Toppings Pies and three single-tier cakes from Cupcake Baker
Wedding Favours – Partridge & Bell
Customised Guestbook – Grandad’s Potting Shed
Stationery – Real Unique , Norma & Dorothy and Old English Company.
This is so cute! love the tandem bike
Such a beautiful comprehensive collection of photos! Gorgeous storytelling and perfect presentation/editing .Love it!
A beautiful set Rachel, the chapel looks gorgeous! x