Pencoed House Estate is one of the most beautiful venues I've had the pleasure of photographing. It's a hugely popular Estate located on the outskirts of Cardiff and makes the perfect all-in-one wedding venue. Cerys & John were married there at the end of July and both my husband and I were delighted to be the photographers for the special occasion.
It was an early start and as I dropped Rick off at John's house to photograph the groom's preparations I was impressed that they were so relaxed and even running ahead of schedule.
Cerys was getting ready down the road at her mum's house, which was busy full of excitement as I arrived. I started right away with the stunning details and accessories, as well as *the* dress.
Wow, what a beautiful lace dress, simply gorgeous! Cerys was helped in to it by her two sisters and, even though they'd already seen it, they couldn't contain their emotion as they saw her emerge as a beautiful bride.
Back at Pencoed House, the boys had arrived in style in Dave's Dad's vintage MG convertible. Guests were arriving and excitedly awaiting Cerys's arrival. She didn't keep them waiting and made her grand entrance on the arm of her very proud father. The ceremony had the perfect amount of personal touch, including a special reading from their son.
After the formalities were done, the guests milled around the beautiful gardens enjoying their Pimms, whilst the children made good use of the onsite play park. Rick and I took the newlyweds for some romantic pictures among the trees in the beautiful grounds. The couple were much more relaxed now they were happily married, and the benefits of having had the pre-wedding shoot were also apparent in the way they approached having their photographs taken (see here for their stunning engagement shoot at Tredegar Park).
Dinner was soon served and as the guests tucked in to their meals, we sat down for the first time all day and reflected on the images taken so far. Next up, was the speeches: funny, honest, emotional and full of love and joy for the friends and families that had come together.
Their guests were in for further treats when it was revealed that there was a sweetie cart, a Photo Booth and an almighty Ferrero Rocher display.
The couple danced their first dance to the sound of the Stereophonics, marking the start of the party which lasted well into the night. As we said our goodbyes, I once again felt like I'd become part of another family.
Congratulations Mr & Mrs Rees, you put on a spectacular day! All the best for a future filled with love and laughs.
Laura & Rick xx
