Lauren Mitchell Photography - Photography in Hampshire

Pre-wedding Shoot – Ross and Ali at Blue Mountain Golf Course

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 17:01:25 +0000

Today we met Ross and Ali for their pre-wedding shoot and meeting at The Blue Mountain Golf Club in Binfield, Berkshire. Meeting at 10am meant we were able to dodge the showers and after a chat about how things were going, and timings for the date we went outside in the sun (and with the golfers!) to take some shots. We use the pre-wedding shoot to help our couples settle in to ‘being photographed’ and after just one shot of Ali as she looked back at the image on the camera her first reaction was ‘Wow!’ – that’s what we like to hear!>Blue Mountain has a lovely bridge over a lake so we used this for a couple of the shots which looked fantastic especially with the golf course in the background…..we will definitely be using this on the day.

Looking forward to the wedding day! Not long now…!

Lauren x

The wedding of Jarrett and Sarah at Rivervale Barn in Yateley

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 23:35:20 +0000

The sun was shining over Rivervale Barn when Teresa and I arrived shortly before 11am. Sarah wasn’t arriving until noon but we wanted to get there early, take some shots of the venue and find new opportunities to shoot the couple shots. We always try and shoot at different angles regardless of how many times we have shot at the same wedding venue…..it keeps things fresh and exciting, and the couple receive the unique shots they expect from us.When Sarah arrived with her Bridesmaids she was so excited which was great to see and we captured some really great shots of her getting ready. Teresa and I also photographed Sarah’s flowers and shoes outside before heading over to find Jarrett. We shot the boys outside Rivervale before they started greeting guests. We then headed back to find Sarah who was ready to fit into her wedding dress and shoes…..she was loving it! We then had time to take their individual shots and after photographing all the Bridesmaids we finished with Sarah’s shot, and I have to say she looked stunning!

Teresa and I then walked into the ceremony room to be greeted by Kelly one of the Registrars who we often work with, what a lovely surprise! The ceremony was fantastic, everyone looks so happy and there were smiles all round…..especially from the happy couple. Teresa managed to take some shots during the ceremony not only from the back of the room but also from the gallery area at the top giving us three perspectives of the ceremony! After this we gathered everyone around the courtyard area for a confetti and group shot before letting the wedding party have some time to chat and mingle. During this time we always capture candid shots and I nipped into the room holding the wedding breakfast to photograph the tables and cake. After 15 minutes we started with the rest of the group shots in the gardens of Rivervale before beginning our favourite part of the day – the couple shots! It’s always challenging working in bright sunshine without any clouds or haze so as a photographer you can either battle against it or work with it. Working with it can produce camera flare which to many people in the industry is a big no, no, but if you do it right, it can produce some striking and creative images. We ended the couple’s shoot which this type of creative photography before all heading back into Rivervale for the Wedding Breakfast.
We photographed the happy couple entering the room as their guests clapped and cheered before heading upstairs to let them all enjoy their meal. We then photographed the speeches, which included ones from the Maid of Honour – Rachel and the happy Bride who had a surprise slideshow to show Jarrett and their guests! After which we photographed the cutting of the cake and then the first dance.

We left the happy couple as everyone was taking to the dance floor…..even grandad

Best wishes to you both,

Lauren and Teresa x

Rivervale Barn – a selection of our favourite wedding photographs

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 16:10:51 +0000

Over the next few weeks we will be highlighting our favourite wedding photographs from different wedding venues in Hampshire, Berkshire and internationally. We wanted to share our favourite photographs from venues to inspire couples looking for a fantastic wedding venue.

This week we have chosen the purpose built barn – Rivervale Barn in Yateley. Being a local wedding photographer to Rivervale, we have been fortunate to be able to photograph a number of weddings here over the years. Rivervale is set amongst a background of greenery and colours and has the Blackwater River running passed making this great for wedding photographs using the bright colours from the flowers and the reflection in the river. It can hold up to 150 guests and holds the ceremony and wedding breakfast under one roof. It also has a courtyard where guests can enjoy canopies and champagne and a Bridal suit ready for the happy couple.

We are looking forward to our next wedding at Rivervale in March.Information for Rivervale Barn:
Mill Lane
Yateley
Hampshire
GU46 7SS
UK
www.rivervale-barn-weddings.co.uk

Guest Interview with Wedding Hair and Make-up Artist Natasha Wiggins

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:42:10 +0000

Natasha is one of Hampshire and Surreys top wedding hair and make-up artists. She was also recently shortlisted for The 2012 Wedding Industry Awards. We have worked with Natasha on a number of occasions now at weddings and we have a great time doing it! She has kindly stopped by to answer a few questions for our couples.

How did you break into the make-up industry and when did you start?
I have always wanted to be a hair and make-up artist and left school and did a beauty therapy course then I went of to London fashion college to do my hair and makeup training it was great fun I have been doing it for 7 years now.

What’s your favourite make-up product to use on Brides?
My favourite makeup is all the Bobbie Brown eye shadows they are amazing and blend really well .I also use a Daniel Sandler blotting powder which could not live with out in my kit it is amazing and soaks up any sweat or oil on the skin and leaves you with a flawless look.

What advice have you got for Brides who are looking to choose a Make-up artist for their wedding?
My best advice I could give you is to look at there portfolios before booking if you are happy with the images on there website then you will be happy with what they do on the day.

How long does wedding make-up and hair usually take on the morning of the wedding?
Wedding hair and make-up would normally take an hour and a half on the wedding day.

And finally, how can people get in touch with you and what’s the process of booking you?
Brides can get in touch by either going to the website http://www.nwmake-up.co.uk/ or by phone on 07841 511 409.

Thanks Natasha!

The Wedding of Dave and Lucy at Warbrook House in Eversley

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 22:13:31 +0000

Dawn and I arrived at Warbrook House in Eversley, a favourite and well visited venue of ours and headed straight to the Morning Room which is where Lucy was getting ready. We opened to the door to be greeted by loads of ladies all busy having hair and make-up done for the big day. We were also lucky to be working with Natasha Wiggins, a fantastic make-up artist and good friend. (we highly recommend her) The morning past very quickly and after capturing the action, dress, shoes and flowers we headed to find Dave and his ushers who had arrived and were helping with the preparations of the day.We took them outside for 5 mins and took their photos before heading back to find Lucy about to get into her dress. After photographing this we took each bridesmaid outside for their individual shots before finishing with Lucy. Everyone was in great spirits ready for the day ahead.

Dawn and I then walked into the ceremony room, met the DJ Alan before being told that a barn owl called Olivia would be flying down with the wedding rings – brilliant! As the guests started to take their seats there was a buzz of excitement in the air and as soon as Lucy entered the room the emotion began to take over. It was a very touching and emotional ceremony… Dave only just managed to finish the vow he had written for Lucy, bless. Olivia (the owl) was also amazing and ‘wowed’ the wedding party and she flew past, landing on the Bestman’s arm.After the ceremony we all ventured outside for a confetti shot. It was really cold so we were keen to start the group shots so the guests could then warm up inside with a glass of champers. After this we took the happy couple around for their couple shots. They looked very relaxed in front of the camera….I think the pre-wedding shoot helped stop any fears they might have had so they were able to enjoy the whole experience. Before sunset we headed back in before photographing the wedding breakfast room and the guests. After the meal Dawn and I photographed the speeches…and yes Dave’s vow featured heavily!!

After photographing the first dance which was amazing…apparently Dave and Lucy had dancing lessons booked but after the first couple their teacher hurt her shoulder and couldn’t teach them anymore. From the performance you would have thought they had watched Strictly!! We left the wedding party in the capable hands of Alan the DJ.

Enjoy your honeymoon in Australia!

Lauren and Dawn x

Wedding Venue: www.deverevenues.co.uk/locations/warbrook-house.html
DJ: www.celebrations-mobile-disco.co.uk
Make-up: www.nwmake-up.co.uk

The Wedding of Toby and Claire at Highfield Park in Hook

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 23:36:12 +0000

Today was the wedding of Toby and Claire a wonderful couple who from the first moment I met them you could tell they were excited to get married! Dawn and I arrived at their house where Claire and a number of girls were busy getting ready and enjoying the champagne! Each had their hair and make-up done and after photographing Claires mum tieing up the back of Claire’s wedding dress we took each one outside for their individual shots. The two young girls looked adorable!Dawn and I then headed to Highfield Park in Hook which is where the ceremony and reception were taking place. We headed into the bar area which is where we found Toby and his men! Toby had arrived in a red mini….so after a few ‘Mr Bean’ jokes we took them outside for some ‘lads’ shots. Toby then headed into the ceremony room while I waited outside for Claire. Claire arrived in a Road Runner – a fantastic American car….which you could hear half a mile away!The ceremony was fantastic….Toby and Claire just laughed, and laughed, and giggled…and oh yes…finally exchanged vows! It was very light hearted and fun-filled. So much so the whole wedding party started singing their exit song…’I wanna marry you!’ by Bruno Mars as they walked down the aisle.We were watching the time very closely as the sun was going to set by 4pm therefore we had already arranged to start the group shots straight after the confetti shot. We managed to sail through these, much to everyone’s relief as it was freezing outside! The wedding couple then had their shots taken around the stunning grounds. Toby and Claire had met us at a wedding fair and had seen our ‘Multiplex’ shot, a unique shot, difficult to master but they really wanted this so we started with this first around a beautiful ruin. We then headed around for some more shots before taking the couple back to their reception. After capturing the speeches which were full of surprises for the couple the tables were cleared and we headed outside again…..Being the 5th of November the couple had arranged sparkers for all the guests (even Dawn and myself had a go) and a fire dancer! Yes she did dance, juggle and ‘eat’ fire! It was very impressive, and all captured on camera of course. The wedding party then headed back in for the cake cutting and first dance.We left the wedding party as they danced the night away!

Hope the honeymoon was perfect

Lauren and Dawn x

Wedding venue: http://www.deverevenues.co.uk/locations/highfield-park.html

Pre-wedding shoot – Dave and Lucy at Warbrook House

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 12:57:28 +0000

Today I was at Warbrook House in Eversley, Hampshire for 10am to meet Dave and Lucy for their pre-wedding shoot. Although it was alittle cold the sun was shining and that’s all we needed! We met in the bar area while Warbrook set up for their wedding today as we finalised timings and discussed their day step by step so we all knew what to expect. They are getting married and having their Wedding Breakfast there which is great for us because it means we can get the most from the venue when it comes to the photography….plus we don’t loose guests when it comes to the group shots!
After this we stepped outside and photographed both of them around the venue. Lucy was alittle nervous about having her photograph taken and how they would look but we put her at ease straightaway when she saw the result….and that’s just from the back of the camera! They both grew with confidence during the shoot and are really looking forward to their photography on their wedding day! Another successful pre-wedding shoot! Looking forward to the wedding!

Lauren x

The Wedding of Kieran and Suzanna at the Englemere, Reading

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 23:50:18 +0000

Dawn and I arrived at Suzanna’s parents house to the bustle of girls in the kitchen having their hair and make-up done. Suzanna was pretty calm and enjoying having her family and friends around her. The weather was holding which was great news as we wanted to shoot as many shots outside as possible – this included Suzanna’s shoes and flowers which looked stunning. Her father was in the living room closely following the rugby….it was England vs. France…..let’s not go there shall we….! So, moving on, we then shot Suzanna and her mum as she tied the back of Suzanna’s dress and as she came down the stairs everyone agreed how amazing she looked.Dawn and I then headed to St. Christophers’ church in Farnborough where we found Kieran and his ushers. After taking numerous photos of the guys Dawn headed inside to capture some of the preparations as I waited for the Bride to arrive. The ceremony was filled with lots of energy, songs and emotion….and a Bride who nearly fainted but thanks to a few glasses of water….didn’t!After the ceremony we took a few photos in the grounds before heading to Englemere in Reading for the wedding reception. Timings were fairly tight so we had to move straight onto the group shots which we turned around in good time. Dawn and I then took the happy couple around the beautiful grounds for their couple shots. The couple looked great together and seem to enjoy their time in front of the camera…..despite it being pretty cold!After this we heading back to take some candid shots of the guests and warm up before photographing the speeches. We left the couple as they started to enjoy the evenings entertainment…..and the chocolate fountain!

Have a super honeymoon!

Lauren and Dawn

Wedding venue: http://www.englemere.co.uk/

The Wedding of Anthony and Maddie at Lovekyn Chapel, Kingston

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 23:28:37 +0000

We arrived at the couples house to a scene of calmness as Maddie and her bridesmaids were having their hair and make-up done while the champagne was flowing! We photographed Maddie’s dress which was gorgeous, shoes and all the little details which go with a wedding day while popping back and forwards to capture the girls having fun! Everyone pretty much kept to time so after photographing all their individual shots Teresa and I headed over to Lovekyn Chapel in Kingston. Lovekyn is a lovely little chapel suitable for intimate weddings. The staff were so welcoming and couldn’t help you enough and certainly brighten up the day as it started to rain. Maddie arrived in her little white Fiat 500 and along with her Bridesmaids dashed across the busy road towards the chapel. Inside Anthony was looking a little nervous but was all smiles as he said ‘Hi’ to guests. The ceremony was full of lots of laughter and smiles and it was so great to see the couple so happy………..they had waited over 8 years for this day!After the ceremony everyone headed outside, some under umbrellas for the champagne reception but the rain certainty didn’t dampen the spirits. After capturing lots of natural shots of guests I headed back to the car to drive to the reception which was being held at a pub called The Marble Hill Pub in East Twickenham. Teresa was going back on the London style double decker bus which had been organised to transport the wedding party to take photos. She keeps on reminding me how fun it was……next time she can take the car and I’ll board the bus!
The bus arrived as the rain started to ease so we headed into the park opposite for some group shots. We breezed through these as Teresa and Anthony’s sister organised the groups so well which was a good job as it started to rain slightly again. After this we then ushered the party back to the pub while we took the couple around the pack for some couple shots. By this time the sun was shining……..typical British weather!!

We then headed back to the pub to photograph the speeches and the cake ‘cup’ cutting. We left the couple as the tables were being cleared away ready for the dancing to commence.

Have a great honeymoon!

Lauren and Teresa x

The Wedding of Mark and Caroline at Marwell Zoo, Winchester

lauren@laurenmitchell.co.uk — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 23:01:25 +0000

Warning: If your an animal lover you might get a little jealous from reading this blog! Today was the day Mark and Caroline married at Marwell Zoo. The day started out at Caroline’s parents house which was filled with preparations for the big day. Teresa and I arrived just after 9am to start photographing the dress, shoes, giraffe wellies, flowers……hang on…..giraffe wellies?!? Yes….that’s right! The theme of the day! Caroline was very calm and seemed to be enjoying having make-up airbrush onto her face…..a technique we hadn’t seen before but Tania the make-up artist definitely knows what she’s doing. The make-up looked so natural and was great for the photographs. After photographing all the important things as well as fitting in a cup of tea we then all headed in convoy to Marwell Zoo Hotel where Caroline was going to put on her dress and finish the final preparations.After checking in, Caroline, her bridesmaids and her mum all headed upstairs into the Bridal suite which Mark has secretly decorated with candles and photos of them both – including ones from their pre-wedding shoot – Good boy! After settling down, the girls were all the their dresses in no time and helping Caroline into hers. She looked amazing. We decided given the time that we would shoot their individual shots after the ceremony so they all had orders not to cry during it! Teresa and I then headed inside the zoo gates driving towards Marwell Hall which is where the ceremony was to take place. I have to say we were just a little excited to be driving through Marwell Zoo spotting all the animals!We arrived to find Mark, a little nervous but chatting to guests as they arrived. The weather was holding as it was forecast to rain so we took Mark outside for some individual shots……I had warned Teresa she would probably need a step ladder to hold the reflector in front of Mark as he was over 6 ft tall, but she managed on the tips of her toes Pav the resident Toastmaster at Marwell was great and managed to get everyone laughing lots before the ceremony. The ceremony was beautiful and filled with laughter and emotion…..I’m sure Mark shed a little tear when he saw Caroline enter for the first time! You could tell they were both enjoying the day so far.After the ceremony it did start raining so I headed up to photograph the wedding breakfast marquee while Teresa took candid shots of everyone chatting. Thankfully the rain stopped so we quickly headed outside for some group shots followed by a confetti shot. After this we took Caroline and Mark around the venue for some couple shots, which were so much fun before heading to the Lemur area as they were both going to feed them…..and we were allowed inside to photograph the action! It was brilliant! Caroline and Mark absolutely loved it and so did we! The lemurs were such great characters so gentle as they took the food out of the couples hands.After this everyone headed up to the marquee for their meal followed by some very funny speeches and photos of rabbits! The cake was also amazing and a special mention must go to Mark’s mother who made it! Teresa and I stayed and photographed their first dance before saying our goodbyes and heading out of Marwell Zoo….despite Teresa’s pleas to stay and see the animals!It was a fantastic day, enjoyed by all.

Congratulations to both of you!

Lauren and Teresa x

Make-up by: Tania Claire www.taniaclaire.com