Jacqui & Martin’s free-spirited wedding in Turkey
A barefoot bride, a belly-dancing surprise, and a Turkish sunset that stole the show. Jacqui & Martin’s destination wedding in Fethiye was full of personality, laughter, and love, just the way I like it.
As a documentary wedding photographer based in London, I never take it for granted when couples ask me to travel to document their day. But this one? This one was special.
Jacqui has been in my life since I was a baby, she was my hairdresser for most of my life while I lived in Cardiff, and has been cutting my hair since I was about one year old (I was born with a mop of thick brown hair, so she had her hands full early on!). She was with me through every hair phase in my 20s, including my perm era. During one of those long perm appointments, Jacqui casually asked, “Would you like to shoot my wedding in Turkey?”
I said yes immediately. I’ve always known Jacqui’s love for Turkey, so knowing she was tying the knot there felt so right. I had no idea that a few weeks later I’d be asked to shoot another wedding in the South of France too, but that’s a story for another day.
So, a year later, off I went with cameras in hand, trying to explain to airport security why I was carrying quite so many. Jacqui and Martin had booked me into the same hotel their wedding was held at Yonca Lodge, a peaceful, tucked-away gem in Fethiye. Think: whitewashed Turkish apartments, a private beach for breakfast and dinner, a pool, chickens wandering freely (and gifting us the best eggs in the morning), and the kind of sunset that makes you stop what you’re doing. It was magic the moment I arrived.
The day before the wedding, I joined Jacqui and the girls for the hen do, cameras on, sunglasses out. We spent the day on a boat trip, sunbathing, drinking, laughing, swimming, flirting with the staff, eating gorgeous Turkish food, and dancing to ABBA and YMCA as the boat glided back to shore. Everyone was buzzing by the end of it, tipsy, giddy, and full of love. They were loud, unapologetically Welsh and proud, and I adored every minute. That’s one of my favourite parts of documentary-style wedding photography: seeing people in their element, fully themselves, and getting to freeze those moments forever.
Before the ceremony and before anyone had even started getting ready everyone came together to decorate the beach. It was such a lovely, collaborative moment, especially after spending time with many of them at the hen do. Starfish, colourful ribbons, and little gems were scattered across the ceremony space, turning the private beach into a joyful, seaside celebration spot. It felt personal and a true reflection of Jacqui and Martin.
Later in the day, once the Turkish sun had eased off a little, Jacqui and her daughter began getting ready together. Their dynamic was so entertaining to capture: Jacqui with her playful, cheeky energy, and her daughter with more grounded, big-sister calmness. It was all love and low-level bickering.
The ceremony took place on Yonca Lodge’s private beach. Decorations were bright and ocean-inspired, with a relaxed, summery feel. Jacqui, ever the boho bride, walked down the aisle barefoot, wearing delicate foot charms, such a brilliant touch. Her dad was sadly too unwell to travel, so she was accompanied by a close friend, while Martin waited at the end of the aisle grinning from ear to ear.
Martin is a joker through and through. Like Jacqui, he has a childlike joy for life — they match each other so well. Their ceremony was short, sweet, heartfelt, and just the right amount of cheesy. There’s one photo from the ceremony that sums it up for me: Jacqui’s dress is blowing into the decor and her friend is behind her trying to rescue it, while Jacqui and Martin are blissfully unaware — totally in the moment, eyes on each other. That’s the kind of shot I live for.
As the sun began to dip and let me tell you, the sunsets at Yonca Lodge are something else, we snuck away briefly for a few couple shots. Neither Jacqui nor Martin were into anything overly posed or “romantic,” so we kept it chilled. I let them muck about on a wooden swing, laughing at how weird it felt to be photographed, and those images ended up being my favourites.
This is why they booked a documentary-style wedding photographer, they didn’t want anything forced. They wanted the real stuff; the sideways glances, the bursts of laughter, the in-between moments.
As the night rolled in, we ate incredible Turkish food and were surprised (all of us!) by a belly dancer. Soon, guests were donning hip scarves and giving it a go themselves. And then, in true Welsh fashion, things got wonderfully chaotic, dancing on tables (which was swiftly stopped), family sing-alongs, drinks flowing, and group dances that felt like ancient rituals and inside jokes rolled into one.
Their first dance was the one “cheesy” moment they embraced — soft, sweet, and soaked in love. And after documenting the joy, noise, and laughter of the evening, I crashed into bed with a full heart and very tired feet.
At breakfast the next morning, I spotted a few bleary-eyed guests holding their heads and nursing coffee, a sure sign of a great wedding. I hugged Jacqui and Martin goodbye, packed up my gear, and began the journey home, wondering when I’d next get to document something as beautifully offbeat as this.
I love shooting destination weddings, especially ones like this, relaxed, unconventional, full of spirit. Yes, they involve more time and travel, but I was born a wanderer, and this part of the job suits me down to the ground. It doesn’t get much better than making meaningful work in places that spark joy, both for me, and for the people I’m lucky enough to photograph.
Big love to Jacqui, Martin, and all the Valleys crew for letting me be part of it.
And just to prove I was really in the thick of it, here’s a shot of me in my “Bride Tribe” dress, camera kit over my shoulder, ready to capture the chaos. Part of the crew, but always with a lens in hand.
To explore more about Jacqui & Martin’s wedding venue visit the website below:
https://www.yoncalodge.com/en/
A Winter Wedding in London, Harriett & Hitesh’s day
Documenting Harriett & Hitesh’s Winter Wedding in London.
As a documentary wedding photographer in London, I love capturing weddings that are full of personality, warmth, and those unfiltered, candid moments that can tell a couple’s story. Harriett and Hitesh’s wedding was just that—a beautiful winter wedding brimming with laughter, and personal touches.
I joined Harriett on the morning of her wedding as she got ready with her bridesmaids, mother and aunts. The room was filled with excitement and giggles, a reflection of the beautiful closeness they all shared. One of the loveliest aspects of the day was that Harriett’s maid of honour was also Harriett’s brother’s wife, a detail that really highlighted the deep family connections present throughout the day. As everyone finished getting ready, champagne was popped, presents were exchanged, and anticipation filled the air.
Harriett stunned in a simple yet elegant winter wedding dress, bright white with a gorgeous fur trim, perfectly complemented by pink heels and a chic white fur coat. She was the epitome of a winter bride—timeless, stylish, and absolutely glowing.
The ceremony took place at Islington Town Hall, a venue steeped in history and charm. Harriett and Hitesh’s family and friends—spanning all generations, from tiny toddlers to proud grandparents—gathered to witness their vows. The atmosphere was electric with joy. As Harriett walked in, beaming from ear to ear, Hitesh’s face lit up with pure love. Their ceremony was a beautiful mix of sweet, emotional moments and the kind of lighthearted fun that made it so uniquely them.
After the ceremony, we captured some brilliant confetti shots, surrounded by their many friends and family. It was one of those classic, joy-filled moments that makes documentary-style wedding photography so rewarding.
In true London wedding style, a classic red vintage bus arrived to whisk everyone away to the reception. This was my first time photographing a wedding that used a vintage bus for transport, and I couldn’t have been more excited to document the experience. Downstairs, families and kids delighted in the nostalgic ride, while upstairs, Harriett and Hitesh’s friends brought the energy, celebrating the newlyweds in full force.
We arrived at The Banker, a beautifully traditional English pub set right on the River Thames, offering stunning riverside views. With dark wood interiors, cozy corners, and open spaces perfect for mingling, it was the ideal setting for a warm and intimate winter wedding reception.
Upon arrival, drinks were poured—not just the traditional bubbly, but also pints of Guinness, a thoughtful touch reflecting Hitesh’s dislike for champagne and the couple’s desire to cater to their guests’ tastes.
As everyone settled in, the wedding breakfast and speeches began. Harriett kicked things off with a witty and heartfelt speech, her signature beaming smile ever-present. Throughout the evening, I couldn’t help but notice the way Hitesh looked at her—completely enamored, as if the whole room had disappeared around them. These are the moments that remind me why I love being a documentary wedding photographer. I get to be a fly on the wall, witnessing and capturing these beautiful, unspoken connections that tell a couple’s story in the most genuine way.
After dinner, Harriett, Hitesh, and I stepped outside to take some couple portraits, making the most of our stunning location. The mix of industrial and historic elements along the Thames provided the perfect backdrop. This is always one of my favourite parts of a wedding day—collaborating with a couple to create images that feel authentic to their story. Whether it’s capturing their silliness, their intimacy, or their excitement, these moments always feel like a true reflection of their connection.
When we returned to The Banker, the pub was absolutely packed with guests who had arrived for the evening celebrations. Harriett and Hitesh are clearly adored by their friends and family, and the energy in the room was incredible.
The speeches continued with heartfelt words from Hitesh’s best man—his brother—whose humour and warmth made it clear just how close they are. Harriett’s father also delivered a moving speech, reflecting on her adventurous spirit and the love she had now found with Hitesh, leaving many in the room teary-eyed.
The couple opted for a low-key cake cutting, keeping it casual and intimate. The beautiful cake, lovingly made by Harriett’s mum, was yet another testament to the strong family bonds that made this wedding so special.
The first dance was a sweet and understated moment, with the couple wrapped up in each other as their guests looked on with adoration. Then, the real party kicked off! A live band set the tone for the rest of the evening, and soon, the dance floor was alive with guests letting loose, indulging in sweet treats, and soaking up the incredible atmosphere.
As the night drew to a close, I took a step back to reflect on the day. Weddings like Harriett and Hitesh’s remind me why I love being an alternative documentary wedding photographer—capturing genuine, heartfelt moments in a way that feels natural and true to the couple’s story.
To explore more about Harriett and Hitesh’s wedding venue visit the websites below:
https://www.sayidoislington.com/ceremonies/marriages/
https://www.banker-london.co.uk/
Documenting Ste and Dan's wedding in Chester
Documenting Ste & Dan’s wedding in Chester.
As a documentary wedding photographer in London and beyond, I’m always thrilled when couples ask me to capture their wedding in new places. I had the privilege of documenting Ste and Dan’s wonderful wedding. Ste and Dan are a couple based in London, who chose the enchanting Old Palace Chester as the backdrop for their special day.
Nestled alongside the River Dee and rich in history, the Old Palace Chester is an overwhelmingly beautiful venue. Surrounded by captivating architecture and picturesque sights, it provided an unforgettable setting that perfectly balanced grandeur and intimacy. The building’s storied walls and serene riverside location set the stage for a beautiful day.
Meeting Ste and Dan before their wedding, I was struck by their dynamic. They were entirely different yet complemented each other in the most beautiful way. Ste’s clear vision for their couple shots spoke volumes about their creative bond. As an alternative wedding photographer, I love working with couples who have strong ideas, and Ste’s dry, sarcastic sense of humour and Wes Anderson-inspired shot ideas made the experience even more enjoyable. We collaborated on a Pinterest board, and by the time the day arrived, we were excited to put our plans into action.
Our couple’s shoot was a blend of traditional and quirky, exploring spots from the historic riverside to an old Victorian-style public toilet. Our more spontaneous and slightly mischievous shot idea ended up producing some of our favourite photographs. The playful and unconventional locations mirrored Ste and Dan’s sense of humour, bringing their vision to life and solidifying the creative trust between us.
This was a half-day booking, so I joined them in the morning, capturing our couple shots in the morning then the later through to the ceremony and the group shots, finishing with detailed photos of their beautifully arranged tables. Chester was the perfect choice for this wedding, offering London wedding guests a delightful taste of Northern charm. The town’s cobbled streets and historical landmarks added a layer of magic that fit seamlessly with the day’s atmosphere.
The ceremony itself began a little tearful but quickly transitioned into lighthearted silliness. Family members’ reactions turned to laughter as Ste and Dan exchanged shy, but sweet vows. Speeches followed with the similar vein of dry humour and wit that Ste and Dan presented throughout the day. In that moment, the ideas behind our planned couple shots with their alternative and witty charm started to make a lot of sense.
Post-ceremony, we moved outside into a very warm summers day for a lively confetti shot and playful group photos. Ste and Dan’s clarity on what they wanted continued to shine through—balancing natural documentary moments with stylised, alternative shots.
As the day wound down, I took one last stroll through Chester, reflecting on the warmth of this unique celebration before heading back to London. Being their documentary style wedding photographer for the day was an honour I won’t forget.
Check out my video journal of Ste and Dan’s wedding below, follow me on TikTok and Instagram for more content like this.
To explore more about the Old Palace Chester visit their website: https://oldpalacechester.co.uk/