Hayley and Christophers Great Down Hall Wedding Photography by John Paul ODonnell Photography.
This was just a brilliant wedding at The totally stunning Down Hall with a great fun couple Hayley and Christopher. I arrived to a very busy bridal suite full of family, bridesmaids and flower girls who were all in great spirits and having lots of fun getting ready together. Hayley was looking relaxed and taking everything in her stride. There were so many photography opportunities in the morning as Chris was also getting ready there. The flower girls were having loads of fun including a very expert demonstration of posing by Lettie and Betsy. I went over to see Chris, he was getting ready in his room with his boys. I met Dan the best man and his groomsmen. What a great bunch of fellas, they remind me of some of my gym mates; the banter was flowing and Chris was looking Sharp. The Fire Brigade is a massive part of Chris’s life and part of his watch was there with him on his big day. The main one was his dad Pins a great friend of mine a retired firefighter himself. After a few pictures with his mum Lesley I headed over to get some shots back with the bride.
Hayleys make up was now finished and she looked beautiful. I got some nice shots of the girls before they got in their dresses. Layah the couples youngest and flower girl was flying around on her litter scooter smiling whilst looking at the camera. Hayley was now in the dress and I went into a room next door and used the natural window light to get some nice shots.
It was now time for me to set up for the ceremony. Everybody sat down in the room, it was full to the max. Chris came in with his brother, dad and groomsmen people were cheering. Hayley then made her entrance in with her mum who gave her away. The ceremony was beautiful and intimate and you could just see that Chris was so moved to see his bride to be. After the vows the couple walked down the aisle to much applause and went outside onto the terrace for their reception drinks. The weather held out everyone had a great time congratulating the couple and having a few canapés and drinks.
Soon it was time for the couple shots. I saw a lovely break of light in the trees and used that spot as the autumn leaves looked perfect. I then took them round the side and the front using the pathways, ballustrade and front of the house for the bulk of the pictures. Gary the toastmaster came over so I knew it was time to head in for the wedding breakfast. There was a lovely atmosphere and everyone was in great spirits welcoming the couple in to the room. The meal was served and then just after the main course I decided to get the couple to come out for 5 minutes and have a shot outside, the sky was lovely and I had lighting all set for the big shot of the back of the house, this came out beautifully and if I say it myself “was timed to perfection”. The speeches went so well. Hayley commented to me afterwards how proud she was of her mum, who did an amazing speech. Then Chris who was brilliant and surprised his bride with Mickey Mouse coming into the room and with her popping his balloon received her present a family holiday to Disney. It was also very amusing to see that the best man’s speech included a judge and a jury from each table who delivered hilarious conclusions on Chris’s activities from his past!
After the wedding breakfast the couple came out to the lounge area where myself and my assistant David had set up a beautiful Chandelier shot. Lovelight were now set up, the guests all came in and surrounded the dance floor. The room went wild as Chris and Hayley came in and cut their cake. They then hit the dancefoor with a very slick and impressive first dance, followed by some very energetic guests. I actually got some of the best drunken shots that ive ever got, great party; great people!
All in all this was a fantastic wedding at Down Hall Country House Hotel. Everything went to plan with a few funny stories thrown in and a wonderful atmosphere.
It was an absolute pleasure to photograph Hayley and Chris’s day and I wish them all the best for their future together. Thank you to the staff at Down Hall with the exception of one for looking after us on the day and to David Horder for assisting/ second shooting. For other suppliers involved in this wedding please see the bottom of the post.
IMPORTANT * These Images are low resolution. Anyone wishing to use them for social media purposes please make sure that the Logo is seen and that credit is given to John Paul O’Donnell Photography.
Bride – Hayley Lazarus
Groom – Christopher Poullais
Bride given away by her mum – Valerie
Flower Girls – Layah, Lettie & Betsy
Pageboy – Buddy
Bridesmaids – Katie and Amy
Best Man – Dan Poullais
Ushers – Tony and Dave
Supporting Team
Photographer – John Paul ODonnell
Entertainment – Joe Lovelight
Filmed by – Anthony from Spotlight Weddings
If you are looking for your Wedding Photographer for your big day, get in touch with us. We would love to talk about your wedding plans. Are you considering Down Hall Country House Hotel as your wedding venue? Share this post, it might help. Many thanks John Paul.
