PRESTON COURT I FAIRGROUND ATTRACTION

Bryony and Darren awesome fairground attraction wedding at the amazing Preston Court in Canterbury Kent

From the meeting we had to look around the venue and go through the plans with Susie I knew that I was in for an exciting time when the day would finally arrive. I’d attended this meeting with Bryony and Darren not only to get a feel for the place and to meet the team. Above all to snap a couple of shots of the couple, pre wedding to prepare them for their big day.

Bridal Prep

On the day of the wedding itself Bryony had spent the morning at a private house, rented for her, her parents and bridesmaids. I arrived to sense of calmness unlike I’ve never experienced before. Breakfast was available making sure we were fed and watered. Hair and make up was in full swing by Louise Huddart Wedding Hair and Make Up. Bryony’s up do hairstyle would go to show off her beautiful bespoke hairpiece created by Miss Clemmie which complimented the stunning wedding dress from Confetti & Champagne Eastbourne. As the preparations were in full swing back at the house, Mark, my assistant photographer was spending time with the boys. Certainly slightly less organised in contrast to that of the girls morning. Still a great opportunity to capture some amazing shots of the guys before those nerves set in.

Julianna’s Island

The morning was soon to come to end, hence we prepared to leave for Preston Court. I knew Darren would be waiting to receive his bride. This match was one made in heaven, maybe this sounds a cliche but so evident. It was only a short drive to the venue. I know the guests would have been wowed on their arrival. The true spectacle of this place is jaw dropping with extra surprises at every turn. Darren and Bryony wanted their guests to have a memorable experience and they delivered in spades.

The team at Preston Court are so extremely helpful and charming. As with most venues that can accommodate weddings outside Susie and her team had a contingency plan for wet weather. There was never a need for concern on that part. The day itself was glorious and the wedding ceremony was conducted on the small intimate moated Juliana’s island. The island is reserved for the couple, immediate family and the wedding party. The guests observing the whole proceedings from across the small lake. The setting couldn’t have been more perfect.

Candy Floss and Carousels

After the ceremony and the drinks ceremony on the lawn it was time for the formal photos. A perfect kick start this awesome day. Further surprises awaited the guests as they were led from the lawn to the barn courtyard. Coconut shy, Hoop la la and traditional games lined the edge of the courtyard. To add to the fabulous fairground attraction an impressive steam engine tractor and fully working Carousel ride balanced with the magnificent 17th century barn. The barn held additional surprises which for me was probably the icing on the cake.

I’m not sure I could have taken more! The backdrop to the beautiful laid out tables was the fully working vintage mechanical organs. Each table decorated and was topped off with totally individual, hand made decorative lamps. As this wasn’t enough each table centrepiece had been made by the groom himself. I was like a kid in a sweet shop.The food, service, friendliness and ambience of this venue is breathtaking. I think you can see for yourself what Preston Court has to offer and I only saw a small part. This place just keeps giving.

Roll Up Roll Up

Bryony and Darren’s wedding was remarkable and left an impression on their guests and on me. A prefect day for the most sincere, awesome and genuinely kind couple. Thank you for having my on board for your special day. More than a fairground attraction.

If you’re planning your special day please contact me by filling out the form on my website to arrange a discovery call. Call 07982 077883 or by email mark@marknortcliffe.co.uk.

In Their Own Words

I love to get to know more about my couples and I’m not afraid to ask if I don’t know. It helps for me to understand whats important to you as a couple!

Where do you two meet?

At a friends house party. The party had been arranged to celebrate the opening of the London 2012 Olympics

How did he propose?

Darren and I are both Formula 1 fans. Darren took me to the Williams Team factory and got down on one knee in front of Ayrton Senna’s car and pop the question.

How long have you planing your big day?

Around 18 months

What was your favourite part of the day?

Darren’s was welcoming the guests as they arrived. I love the intimate ceremony on Juliana’s Island.

Tips and Advice?

Anything you’d like to share that you learnt throughout the planning stages which would help other couples?

At the beginning of the process agree on your top 3 most important elements of the day and not to lose sight of those throughout, Ours was 1) the people, 2) the guest experience and 3) the fact we were making a commitment to each other.

Obstacles?

Any little things you fell out with each other about along the way?

Nothing, we discussed all of the big decisions together. Always reminding ourselves of our three key elements.

Time to Relax?

Where did you go for you honeymoon?

We had a four week safari in Kenya then on to Zanzibar

Cambridge wedding and family lifestyle photographer. Specialising in same sex weddings.

Suppliers

Hair and Make Up – Louise Huddart 

Flowers – Blue Hen Flowers

Wedding Gown Boutique – Champagne & Confetti

Mens Suits – Marc Darcy

Celebrant – Kent County Council

Live Band – Ear Candy 

Venue – Preston Court

Photography – Mark Nortcliffe Photography