Southwell Minster had been on my wish list for a wedding for a while. I had visited many years previously as an art student in Nottinghamshire to draw the building. The church was built during the 12th and 13th centuries, and for much of the Middle Ages was part of the diocese of York. Big churches often have stricter rules on photography, but more on that later.
Natalie and her gang got ready at the Saracen’s Head across the road. Meanwhile, Tom and his crew were a couple of doors down at the Admiral Rodney. Emotions were running high amongst the bridal party and we had a few tears as the preparations came to a conclusion.
Wedding Photography at Southwell Minster
Like many cathedrals in this country, the rules regarding wedding photography were much stricter than in smaller churches. I was able to move freely whilst Tom was greeting the guests, and as Natalie made her way into the Minster. However, as the ceremony started I had to perch at the back of proceedings peering through the elaborately carved rood screen. Luckily I had my ‘birdwatching’ lens with me so I could still capture the action!
I was able to get a bit nearer for the signing of the registers, and as the couple headed outside. They appeared through the huge doors and were showered with confetti by the gathered guests.
Archbishop’s Palace Wedding Photographer in Southwell
With the ceremony complete everyone headed next door to the Archbishop’s Palace. This was built by the aforementioned Archbishop of York, and mostly wrecked during the Civil War. The surviving part, the Great Hall, separately hosted Cardinal Wolsey and Charles I during tricky times for both! It was restored in the Edwardian era, and now hosts wedding and other events. The guests first gathered in the palace gardens for drinks, surrounded by the ruined walls of the original palace.
There was time for a few shots of the couple on their own in the quiet surroundings of the Minster. After that, everyone headed upstairs to the Great Hall for dinner and speeches.
Wedding Photographer at Southwell Minster
As the late summer sun kept it warm and light enough, the guests retreated to the garden again. There were a few ball games and a bouquet toss as the staff turned the Great Hall around. Then it was back upstairs for cake, dancing and a lot more drinking.
Nottinghamshire Wedding Photographer
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