Arriving at Bury Court in Surrey, it’s impossible not to be blown away by this stylish, rural idyl. Bury Court perfectly combines the natural beauty of the countryside with the charm of a contemporary barn setting. Modern curated gardens with swaying grasses and minimalistic landscaping surround the barn and accommodation spaces. A wedding photographer’s dream and more-so a dream venue with exclusive use for Mackenzie and Ali’s day. And what turned out to be a day that would see me go viral in Instagram with over ONE MILLION views of a reel I captured, quite by chance. More on that later… And although I am a Devon based wedding photographer, I am so fortunate to visit Bury Court multiple times a year and in fact shoot more weddings in The Cotswolds and Surrey than I do in my home county. Something I am very happy to do to photograph my dream couples. Yes, the manifesting has been working overtime.

Their wedding day wasn’t the first time Mackenzie, Ali and I had met. We had already become firmly acquainted at their pre-wedding shoot in Bristol. Of course I went to see Mackenzie, her Mum and Bridesmaids when I arrived and also met über talented videographer friend Daniel Bruce who was already on site filming the then quiet location, collecting establishing shots for the film.

Mackenzie had prepared all the accessories I’d need for the details shots including the most beautiful jewelled Jimmy Choo heels. Like a magpie I was all over the glistening stones.

In the barn, the venue is adorned with huge crystal chandeliers. Long trestle style tables were lined up and crisp white linens were being pressed for the table (I think I let out an audible gasp at the immaculate attention to detail). Bud vases with white flower stems, natural green foliage, tall candles and sparkling glasses lined the centre of the tables. An illuminated neon sign behind the bar reads “somewhere between heaven and earth” and I felt it was so accurate. The couple had created a really personal memory table with guest book and vinyls to be signed by loved ones. Film cameras and Instax were scattered around for everyone to create their own record of the day.

Mackenzie wore a timeless, elegant gown and accessorised with a veil her sister had worn for her own wedding day. A big statement bow sat neatly on her lower back and yes, it had POCKETS! Her beautiful bridesmaids (and they were REALLY beautiful) wore a combination of styles in a nude, blush colour palette. When everyone was ready, obligatory fireball shots were brought out. A tradition for Mackenzie she brought from her home country of Canada.

Bury Court Barn Surrey Wedding Photographer Natural Elegant Style

Precious moments

Another tradition I see more from my non-British Brides is the first look photograph opportunity. Watching Mackenzie’s Dad’s face light up when he saw his darling girl coming towards him in the gardens, neither of them wanting to let out a tear, determined to maintain only happy vibes. It was so special. Truly one of those moments even as a professional wedding photographer, you could never recreate. And then a first look photograph with her Groom. The couple had agreed to exchange personal vows privately initially, before saying them in the ceremony for the first time. Trying to hold back my own tears at their promises, full of loving sincerity, I let them enjoy the moment together while I captured some portrait photos of the Bridesmaids.

We all left for the ceremony and thanks to Becky Adams for assisting with extra photography coverage on the day. I wish I could clone myself but in lieu of that, she was super helpful.

Ali waited with the groomsmen in the courtyard. One by one the Bridesmaids glided in their satin gowns, under the festoon lights to the top of the aisle. Ali beaming knowing with each face that greeted him, he was one step closer to seeing Mackenzie. And then there she was. Both arms entwined with her parents, one on each side as they escorted her down the aisle. Rows of white chairs and tall glass candle holders at the end of each row.

They completed the legal elements and we all got to hear their emotional speeches and personal vows. In the setting, it all felt so organic and natural. Human and sincere. Funny and heartfelt. White hydrangea heads bobbed in the breeze, giving their nod of approval.

A moment worthy of a MILLION views

As everyone exited to the ceremony to rapturous applause, the new Mr and Mrs took a moment to sip on champagne. Getting married is thirsty work! We went straight into the most epic confetti photographs in the enclosed rear courtyard and I attached a phone holder to the hot shoe of my Sony camera. A gimmicky thing I’d seen on Amazon for £10 and thought I’d give it a whirl. Without any prep, Ali and Mackenzie danced their way through a tunnel of real petal confetti. Dan and I walking backwards shoulder to shoulder. Ali jumping in the air and catching tiny pieces while Mackenzie held her veil in her free hand. I had no idea ten quid and ten seconds of iPhone footage would see me reach viral Instagram status.

Want to see what a reel of a million views looks like? CHECK IT OUT HERE

Unaware of the fame and fortune that was awaiting me (in my dreams), we went into the afternoon reception. Hugs, kisses, well wishes and greetings everywhere I looked. Smiles and laughs and chatter all around the grounds. The love was really in the air and it was palpable. It made shooting natural, candid photographs of the assembled guests super easy with everyone relaxed and enjoying the sun and an abundance of canapé and cocktails which just kept on coming.

With the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, we shot some group portraits in the gardens and courtyard. Of course we shot family groups too. Bury Court Barn is a quintessentially picturesque venue, blending rustic charm with the beauty of the countryside. It benefits from so many versatile spaces that the images can be switched up easily to give some variation and to make the most of the beautiful countryside backdrop for wedding photography. The girls wanted to recreate an image from their favourite movie (and mine!) ‘Bridesmaids’. And as with all my couples, we shot some portraits in the barn before guests entered for feasting and speeches. The chandeliers hanging distinctly overhead as Ali kissed his Wife in a classic movie style pose.

The calm before the party

Mackenzie and Ali have the best energy. They give the most wonderful, comforting vibes and for sure that’s the energy they attract. Every speech shared special anecdotes, gratitude, moments in their love story and heartfelt sentiments. All this taking place inside while a beautiful golden hour was developing outside which is always my preferred time to go out for evening portrait photographs. Dan and I had agreed to sneak out a bottle of Prosecco with us and Ali and Mackenzie were happy to shake it up and have some fun with their couples shots. They danced and swayed, practicing for the time when they would imminently have to perform in front of their guests at their official first dance. They swigged the cold bubbles from the bottle, holding each other and laughing effortlessly, entirely comfortable in the other’s arms.

As the evening progressed, the barn transformed into a lively dance floor. Guests kicked off their shoes, popped on a sequin jacket or two and danced the night away to the sounds of a live band under the twinkling lights overhead.

Are you looking for a UK wedding photographer and love what you’ve seen?

Connecting with wonderful couples celebrating their love is easily the best thing about my job as a wedding photographer in the south of the UK. Travel and visiting new and beautiful places is also a big perk which is why I love to photograph weddings in my signature romantic, emotive style in Surrey, The Cotswolds, Somerset and Bath too.

And maybe you’ve scrolled through these photos because you’re also getting married at Bury Court or maybe another UK wedding or elopement venue and think my work is exactly what you’re looking for. You can reach out to me here at: sayhey@katyjonesphotos.co.uk. I always love to hear from you.

Thanks for engaging in my post.

Katy x

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