Every wedding is important, but Vicki and Andy’s ceremony was more poignant and more emotional than most. This was a last minute booking because of the poor health of Vicki’s mum, who had been diagnosed with terminal cancer just 7 weeks earlier. It was touch and go as to whether she’s be able to make the big day at all, but it was truly a blessing that she was there, surrounded by family and friends to watch Vicki tie the knot. She passed away 2 days after the wedding.
The marriage took place at Farnley Tyas Church. On the way to the ceremony, the sun was shining so we took a few photos of the bride and her bridesmaids on the lawn, before heading over to the first venue. As Vicki and Andy exchanged their vows, the couples’ families looked on, enjoying the moment and the smiles that the soon-to-be newlyweds kept sneaking at one another, clearly overjoyed to be there.
Vicki and her Mum shared a few special moments together before the bride and groom made their way across the grass to have confetti showered upon them. They then got into their Aston Martin car and drove over to the reception venue; Woodsome Hall. Here we took some posed portraits of all the guests with the couple on the steps and around the grounds, before I took Vicki and Andy off for a walk under the tall trees and beside the lake to get some images of them on their own.
The meal and speeches followed with everyone in high spirits. The best man’s speech, aided by childhood photos, was particularly hilarious. Drinks accompanied by guitar music followed, along with the cutting of the Cath Kidston style cake and the first dance. It was then time for everyone to properly let their hair down and enjoy the Ska band, under the romantic lighting of the exquisitely lit marquee.
It was a beautiful occasion for many different reasons, but being there and witnessing the special bond Vicki obviously had with her mum made it all the more special. I feel privileged to have been part of such a memorable day and I would like to wish the bride and groom all the very best in their future together.
Vicki is going is going to do a skydive to raise money for the Barnsley Hospice on 16th June, 2018. If you would like to donate to this amazing charity please CLICK HERE.
Mark Tierney is a Yorkshire based Contemporary Wedding Photographer covering the UK and beyond.