You’re never too old to experience new things, I find. So, when I was asked to photograph Susan and Jeremy’s Jewish Wedding in North Wraxall in Wiltshire, this summer, I jumped at the chance! Photographing a Jewish Wedding was a big learning curve for me though. Not knowing my Chuppah from my Ketubah, the experience of the day was an eye-opener for me, but I loved every moment of it!

 Susan and Jeremy were married on a gloriously bright August day at the family’s holiday home. It was an absolutely stunning renovated farm building with a beautiful lake set amongst several acres. I loved how the lake even had its own rowing boat! I was fortunate enough to have Rich Howman joining me for the day. Having a second shooter for a Jewish Wedding is something I’d definitely recommend. There’s a lot going on and it’s all pretty fast-paced so I wouldn’t want to miss anything.

 I started with bridal prep, where I got to have a lovely catch up with Christy Waterfall who was busy working on hair and make-up. It’s always lovely to run into suppliers you’ve worked alongside before. Christy is so lovely and talented. It’s always a pleasure to see her at bridal prep!

As usual, I loved capturing the little details that were happening during prep. Susan’s beautiful dress was hanging in the window, with the sparkles stitched into it catching the sunlight. As Rich captured the guests arriving and greeting one another, I was able to get shots of Susan and her two sons peeking out the window at all the excitement below.

Susan looked absolutely gorgeous as she was accompanied across the lawn by her sons to a patiently waiting Jeremy. The light couldn’t have been more perfect as it shone behind her and lit up the whole space so magnificently. Jeremy looked so smart in his blue suit. I loved that we managed to capture his proud reaction as he watched his bride walk towards him.

Susan and Jeremy stood under the Chuppah to exchange their vows as everyone looked on. Their sons supported the corners of the canopy. Then followed the Seven Blessings, where members of the family read the blessings out to everyone. I loved this tradition, along with the Smashing of the Glass, the circling and, of course, the drinking of the wine! Those traditions add a depth to the ceremony. Each tradition carries with it symbolic meanings for the bride and groom, which is so lovely.

Being an early evening ceremony, things raced along after that! There was confetti as Susan and Jeremy walked together back up the aisle to go and complete the Ketubah. This was exquisitely ornate and certainly outdid the standard wedding certificate! Some canapés and guest-mingling ensued. Then it was time for a few quick romantic photos of the couple as the sun set.