Traditional Family Wedding

Michelle & Tony were married at the beautiful Clifton Park Museum in Rotherham. Their wedding was family focused, with all the children playing a part in their day.

As a Barnsley photographer I’d been to Clifton park hundreds of times, but this would be the first wedding I’d photographed there. I was so excited, the grounds near the museum are beautiful and I couldn’t wait to use them.

On the morning of her wedding, Michelle got ready at home with her sisters, daughters and granddaughters. It was organised chaos, with children playing in one room, the makeup artist in another and drinks being poured in the kitchen.

I went to visit Tony at his Mum’s house before he left for the Ceremony. Although there were less people, there were a lot more nerves! We captured a few family photographs before leaving for the ceremony.

The Ceremony

Michelle looked beautiful as she walked down the aisle. The ceremony was emotional, with most of the wedding party in tears by the end, including the bride and groom. Their daughter had asked to read a poem she’d written which set everyone off again.

After we’d captured the group shots we headed on to the reception where the wedding breakfast was already laid out. It was a very traditional meal; a huge ham salad covered with cellophane. Desserts, teas and coffees were served to each table followed closely by the speeches.

The speeches were a rollercoaster of emotions. The top table had two candles dedicated to people who couldn’t be there on the day. Both had a poem written on the back which was read during the speeches. Everyone was in tears before the best man brought us back to laughter with stories of Michelle & Tony.

The room was turned around by the guests; tables were moved from the dancefloor, balloons were brought in and the evening reception began with the DJ playing the Frozen soundtrack for the children.

My favourite part of the day was the traditional values. The focus was completely on being around family and friends and enjoying the day together. If something went wrong it didn’t matter as long as everyone was happy.