As well as the appeal of photographing at this rustic and historic venue (Legend has it it was King Arthur's residence) after getting to know Rachel and Mike spending time together during an engagement shoot, I was so excited to be with them on their wedding day.
Located just outside Cardiff, Pencoed House Estate is a dream venue and its stone exterior and beautiful gardens are a joy to photograph and there's very little need to leave the grounds on your wedding day.
Pencoed House Estate
Bridal Preperation
The day started at Rachel's parents' home in Bridgend. The couple had also booked my videography option so working together we started telling the story of the day. I started by photographing Rachel's details before candidly documenting the morning. Excitement was high and with Mike getting ready with his groomsmen at their home, just a stone's throw away, we headed over to see what the boys were up to before coming back to Rachel for final touches and reveal to her dad and bridesmaids.
Groom Preperation
With it being one of the hottest days of the year, we arrived to the boys being very good spirits. Mike opened a beautifully written letter from Rachel which we recorded and you can hear a snippets from on the wedding video a little later on!
Ceremony at Pencoed House Estate
Group Photos
Rachel and Mike opted for a minimal amount of group photos. I find this particularly helps on very hot (or wet!) days with around 15 being the optimal number of course depending on the size of the wedding party. With the final group complete we had a rather impromptu moment which we were fortunately ready to document.
Wedding Reception
Bride and Groom Portraits
One of the best things about Pencoed House Estated is that you have no need to leave the grounds for photographs. There is an abundance of interesting characteristics to the gardens and within a very short walk we captured so many beautiful images. The excellent forecast and weather allowed us to delaying the shoot until after the reception meaning we could make the most of the late evening golden light. Its something I always bring up when meeting couples but having some of flexibility in your timeline really helps, meaning if the light is unbelievably beautiful outside and your photographer suggests popping outside for 10 minutes of photos, its more often than not justified by the end results.
