Wickham Estate weddings
Forty acres of vines just outside Wickham, a glass-walled Vine Room and an Old Winery that glows once the candles are lit. I photograph a lot of weddings here, and I still get a bit giddy every time.
Why I love it here
There's a reason couples fall for Wickham Estate. The light through the vines in the late afternoon is a bit ridiculous, in the best way, and the whole place feels relaxed rather than precious.
Summer ceremonies at the gazebo are bright and green, and if the weather does its usual British thing, the floor to ceiling glass in the Vine Room keeps everything light anyway. Then the party moves into the Old Winery, all chandeliers, beams and huge oak doors. I keep the flash to a minimum in there, so your photos still feel warm and candlelit rather than school disco.
Chase the sunset
The vines look their best about twenty minutes before sunset. I'll keep an eye on the sky and steal you away for ten minutes when the light's right. You'll be back before anyone misses you.
Use the treeline
If the sun's high and harsh, the treeline just past the vines gives soft, dappled light. Much kinder for portraits, and for anyone prone to squinting.
Details by the window
Pop your rings, shoes and dress near the big windows in the prep room. It's the most flattering light in the building, and it saves me hunting for them.