There is always something magical about weddings in the UK – the fairytale settings, the glamorous women and dresses, dapper men and suits, and many other superlatives.

In 2019 I photographed Michael & Bex for their period pre-wedding shoot in Normandy, France – during the commemorations for D-Day and WWII. This wedding had been a few years in the making, due to COVID postponements and changes. We were all eagerly anticipating this fairytale wedding, and I was not disappointed at all.

Today bore witness to an Owl that flew in the wedding ceremony to deliver the wedding rings, a 3 person staffed horse and carriage to service the Bride & Groom, a stunning setting reminiscent of Hogwarts, Quidditch being played on the lawns, to a Halloween inspiration in the night.

The prestigious Canford School in Wimborne, southwest England, presented a magical backdrop reminiscent of a big Hollywood production film set – in this case – a Harry Potter inspired set as the couple are huge fans of the books and films. Every detail was meticulous planned out and ably assisted by the ever-present Toastmaster Bob and the staff at the school, from hand-carved Pumpkins to a photobooth with real grass and lamp post and bench for a whimsical setting, to the dining hall adorned with hanging trees and candles. It was a wedding unlike any other and we were surprised everywhere we turned.

I would like to thank Tony Johnson & Lesley Johnson for being such accommodating and lovely hosts, it was great for us all to be reunited again since 3 years ago hanging out in France.

Jonny Ratke being his 4th international wedding with me in his 4th country – awesome 2nd shooter as always. And Lysa Scott for assisting and directing.

And most of all, a huge congratulations to Michael Filmer-Smith & Rebecca Johnson-Smith – enjoy your well deserved 3 weeks in Hawaii!