For a wedding photographer, its always a pleasure to shoot at the superb Lainston Country House Hotel nr Winchester in Hampshire. Jim and Martina’s wedding was no exception with beautiful spring sunshine and outdoor ceremony in the lovely grounds of the hotel – picture perfect !

Martina’s preparations took place in one of the lavish four poster bedrooms of the hotel, while Jim and the best man strode about downstairs purposefully checking this and that. One of the best man’s tasks was a crash course in falconry to enable a bird of prey to fly to him at his call, carrying the wedding rings at the precise moment in the ceremony. ( we had previously joked about being wary of some sort of dodgy decoy guy camouflaged in the woods, diverting the bird, so he could poach the rings !? so eyes were on the lookout)

The very cute little bridesmaids led Martina and her father across the lawn to the outdoor pavilion, a beautiful sight I’m sure Jim will never forget. On cue, best man was ready with his leather glove and hand gesture as the bird with rings was ‘de-hooded’, ready for take off. Several minutes later, despite much encouragement and considerable shortening of the route, our ring bearer was having none of it ! Cue polite tittering, he realised the joke was wearing thin, gave a sort of shrug and managed a ‘hop’ onto best man’s hand, so the rings could be exchanged and marriage sealed !   Not quite the spectacular airborne display we might have hoped for but still an essential short ‘journey’.

A lovely relaxed reception followed with photos here and there in the grounds ( I’m spoilt for choice with so much photo potential at Lainston ). Champagne and pimms served on trays with delicious canapes, a caricature artist sketched people, more birds of prey were passed about, magician did some card tricks, dresses admired, gardens explored, confetti scattered……

The banquet took place in the 17th century Dawley Barn and a fine time had by one and all.

see the whole day in my newly weds section

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to find out how I can help with your wedding photography at Lainston House Hotel please dont hesitate to get in touch

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