Shona and Ed – Esher, Surrey

A tin shack isn’t a typical church you’d normally find in England but this cosy church in Surrey was the venue for the beautiful wedding of Shona and Ed. Shona is originally from New Zealand so they chose it because it is reminiscent of the churches found there. I first went over to Shona’s house where she and her bridesmaids were getting ready. Even the dog was dressed up! It wasn’t long before the champagne was opened, Bolly darling, and the celebrations began. Everyone was relaxed and getting ready for the day, I suspect the Bolly was helping the nerves! Mmmm Bolly. Make up was done by one of Shona’s friends and she did an amazing job, everyone looked absolutely stunning.

When I first arrived at the church, I heard music and singing coming from inside and thought that it was an amazing CD playing and equally amazing speakers playing it. To my surprise, and delight, I walked inside to find an opera singer singing unmiked. Towards the end of the ceremony, she sang for the congregation and had us all speechless. Just incredible. Shona came down the aisle with her father to the tune of a bagpipe player. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful, Ed and Shona couldn’t stop smiling.

Later we moved on to the Vera Fletcher Hall for the reception. Shona, Ed and family had worked for several hours the day before decorating the place. Shona loves daffodils and at this time of year they are normally out in full bloom. In fact there was some fear that it may actually have been too late. But the longer, colder winter this year meant they have only just started to grow. Undeterred, Shona set the thermostat to 24c and set about convincing several hundred daffodils that now was spring and they should get themselves out into bloom! She succeeded and the room was awash with yellow flora.

A wonderful wedding breakfast was enjoyed, much wine consumed and many Trivial Pursuit questions about Plymouth, iPods and Big Brother discussed. Then, to round off a perfect day, a live band performed for the happy couple and guests.

It was my pleasure and honour to be present for this amazing day, for Shona and Ed and their wonderful friends and families, to capture it all. I hope I did ok…