I’ve had the opportunity to photograph so many incredible weddings in beautiful locations across England and Wales, and each of them have been breath-taking in their own way. However, when Stacey and Darren asked me to follow them to Sorrento and photograph their Italian wedding, I was both unbelievably excited and slightly apprehensive about taking on an entirely new challenge. I also had the added pressure of them being dear friends of mine- I was very touched to have been given this amazing opportunity, but I desperately wanted to do them (and their beautiful wedding) justice.
Having never done a destination wedding before, I brought equipment that covered every eventuality- meaning that getting through airport security, along with a new-born, a 3 year old and a husband in tow, was an interesting experience to say the least. Nevertheless, I fell in love with Sorrento as soon as I caught a glimpse of the jaw-dropping Coastline views as we began our descent down the dramatic clifftops. Over the next few days, I got to grips with the area and scouted out the most picturesque spots of the Seaside town.
I headed to Stacey’s apartment to photograph the bridal preparations before the wedding. We made good use of the classic balcony doors to allow some natural light and to showcase Stacey’s gorgeous Dress, as well as playing around with some fun shots of the couple’s beautiful daughters. Stacey looked stunning with her hair elegantly styled as we walked through the streets of Sorrento on the way to her ceremony at Cloisters. In a quiet courtyard just metres away from the bustling cliff tops overlooking the sea, Stacey’s father proudly walked her along the white carpet towards a beaming Darren. With the live harpist playing in the background, their friends and family looked on as they exchanged vows in a ceremony conducted in both English and Italian.
After the ceremony, the Amalfi Coast provided the perfect backdrop for some spectacular photos of the Bride and Groom, along with their family and friends. Guests then headed to the Foreigner’s Club to continue the celebrations, where they were served a drinks reception overlooking the Coastline, followed by a typically-Italian Wedding Breakfast and shots of Limoncello. The evening celebrations brought lots of fun, love, laughter and dancing, with a caricaturist drawing some entertaining keepsakes for guests to take home and a live band providing the soundtrack. Their first dance, complete with sparklers for everyone to enjoy, made sure the day went out with a bang.
It was a truly unforgettable experience and I am so grateful for Stacey and Darren allowing me to capture their day. I’m sure your marriage will be every bit as beautiful as your wedding was x
