Romantic through and through, genuinely beautiful, inside and out and completely in love are words that I could easily use to describe Natalie and Russell and it was simply a joy to get to know them both. Russell's fairytale proposal on top of the Eiffel tower in Paris along with Natalie's favourite disney film 'Beauty and the Beast' together became the inspiration for their truly magical wedding day at Matfen Hall.
Natalie and Russell told me that Matfen Hall's gothic great hall with it's towering stained glass window, grand staircase and architectural stone arches reminded them of the ballroom in disney's classic 'Beauty and the Beast' and as soon as they stepped inside, they knew it would be the perfect place for their wedding.
Natalie's stunning engagement ring.
Natalie chose tones of beautiful cornflower blue for her bouquet and bridesmaids dresses keeping within the theme of the day.
It was wonderful to work with our old friend Julie Pattinson once again, using her makeup skills to ensure that all of the girls were looking perfect for the day.
Nigel met the lads downstairs as they finished getting ready for the ceremony.
Each of the men were given a pair of cufflinks, each with a different super hero emblem on. As pretty good look alike, Russell of course had Captain America.
Natalies lovely bridesmaids helped her into her stunning wedding gown in Matfen Hall's bridal suite.
Natalie looked stunning in her ballgown style wedding dress, long veil and a delicate tiara headband.
A priceless moment and one of my favourites on a wedding day - the moment the bride's father sees his daughter for the first time on her wedding day.
Undoubtedly the adrenaline is kicking in for Russell now as the guests stand to greet the bride. I love this shot as his Mum steps forward to give her son a loving gesture and a little reassurance and that look on Russell's face tells us everything he is thinking, a little nervous but like he is living a dream.
Beautiful Natalie walks slowly down the great hall staircase. Such a proud moment for her and her father, I carefully positioned myself so we can see her clearly ascend the staircase while we can also see their guest looking up watching her with Russell up at the back - sticking to tradition and not turning. Viewing these images allows Natalie to relive the moment and Russell to witness something that he did not with his own eyes.
Natalie made such an elegant bride.
The gothic great hall at Matfen offers so many interesting and creative view points to photograph from.
Gorgeous light for Natalie and Russell as they pose for their family and friends.
Natalie and Russell were lucky enough to have stunning weather for their wedding day and so everyone headed straight outside to enjoy it.
Russell's parents had bought these fun french signs for Natalie and Russell.
Matfen Hall's lavender was perfectly in bloom for their mid August wedding.
The terrace room perfectly set for the wedding breakfast. I noticed that the candelabra's gave a nod in the direction to the character Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast and the lace detailing and fresh colour theme to the french.
A miniature Eiffel tower set on a table filled with jars of home made macarons, a traditional french dessert. I was invited to try one and so I can say they were out of this world gorgeous.
Natalie and Russell's wedding guests were invited on to the grand staircase to welcome Natalie and Russell to take to the dance floor. Natalie and Russell looked incredible as they waltzed across the vast open floor space in the beautiful hall looking like a scene from a fairytale.
As the sun lowers in the sky, we head outside for one to two last romantic portraits.
Natalie and Russell, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for inviting us to attend your beautiful wedding day. Your love for one another, your romantic souls and your sincere kindness is inspirational, and everyone who will see these images it will be plain to see that you two were simply made for one other. We both wish you love, happiness and an amazing future together.