I met Jake & Hannah at a Brighton wedding fair and having shot a few weddings at the Grand Hotel in Brighton where they were getting married, I was happy to be going back to this imposing Victorian seafront hotel. Here’s Sarah & Hugo’s wedding from a few years ago at the Grand, and another one where Sarah (a different one!) prepared before her big wedding to Alex at the Royal Pavilion if you’re interested in seeing some more.
Bridal preparation in Hove
The day started with Hannah’s preparations with her bridesmaids in their bright flat in Hove just down the road from the Grand. All over the walls were stunning photos of all the places Hannah & Jake had travelled to and shared adventures together. Clearly well travelled and keen travellers, it was lovely seeing their colourful memories all over their walls. There were lots of girls doing make-up and hair and eventually they were all ready to go, so off I went up through the busy Brighton traffic towards the Grand. Jake was nervously waiting in the bar with his closest friends and family, greeting guests as they arrived before heading into the Regent Suite ready to wait for Hannah’s arrival.
Arrival of the Bride in a stretch limo
Minutes later, Hannah swept up in a huge stretch limo with all the girls and her family, really making a bold entrance. After a short meeting with the registrar, Hannah was ready to get married. They had a short civil ceremony in front of their nearest and dearest with huge smiles all around and then they headed upstairs to celebrate in one of the suites with a balcony overlooking the beach and famous old pier. It was a perfect autumn day. After lots of champagne and nibbles, we were all off to the beach, the newly-weds and their bridal party! As it turned out, it wasn’t far from where Jake had proposed to Hannah, so for sentimental reasons they wanted to do a few photos of just the two of them, back there again. So sweet. It’s these moments that really matter and I’m always happy to be part of making those memories for my couples. The bridal party and entourage followed for some group shots and lots of confetti that was literally blown all over them by the cool sea breeze!
Photos on the beach
A few shots in front of the old pier and along the seafront, one of their favourite places to walk, Hannah even had time to shoot a few hoops on the basketball pitch! Then back to the Grand and into the ballroom for their wedding dinner and speeches. Not long after, the live band kicked in, waking the place up and getting a rapturous applause from the audience – what a difference a live band makes (go for a live band at your wedding if you’re planning one, they ROCK). Lots of evening guests started to arrive, making it a real party atmosphere… If you’re getting married at the Grand Hotel or any Brighton venue, drop me a line – I’d love to be there to capture your day.
Hannah & Jake – enjoy your next adventure x
