Mapperton House in Dorset was the striking backdrop for Danielle & Alex's wedding day, held in the lull between lockdowns during the 2020 Coronavirus Pandemic. Whilst the journey to that day had been fraught with rescheduling and the stresses induced by that, it was a real beacon of light and joy for everyone who attended and those who worked on the day. The guest list may have been limited to 15 people, but each person there was incredibly important to both Danielle & Alex and they all helped to make it a truly special and ultimately memorable occasion.
The venue staff, caterers, florist, hair stylist, make-up artist and Ceilidh duo were all on top form ; each one respecting the delicacy with which they now had to set to their tasks.
Although the weeks surrounding the wedding day were tumultuous and unsettling, their celebrations brought about a serene enjoyment, a familiar fondness of time with family and friends. It was beautiful to behold. Moments still happened as they do at any special event but they seemed to carry a little more weight and pathos, reflected as they were by lockdowns and restrictions (enough of those for now!).
Alex & Danielle live in Scotland, yet they met in Dorset some years ago. They chose to venture down to Dorset for their wedding celebrations and they chose the gorgeous barn at Mapperton House Nr Beaminster as their venue. Its a stunner. The house and gardens are detached from the Barn, but they are accessible for photos and drinks. However, we had a bit of rain that day (think 'The Day After Tomorrow'-scale downpours) and so guests were unable to fully enjoy the vast, lush gardens to their full. We did manage to spot a break in the weather and get some shots of Danielle & Alex in the Orangery and around about. It's bloomin' lovely there! Even on such an overcast day in early Winter!
The afternoon was graced with the first live music any of us had heard in a year (+) and was quite moving upon reflection. The evening wore on, lit by the glow of fairy lights, warm lights in the barn and the fire pit burning outside (somehow in the pouring rain!!?). To say it was the day they had initially wished for wouldn't be right, but it was certainly a joyous, love-filled celebration and it will stay with me for a very long time.
Alex & Danielle are, it must be said, delightful. Kind, thoughtful and funny, easy to talk to and a joy to photograph. It is thanks to people like them that i am able to continue in this career and to keep my head. I am forever indebted to them and everyone else who employed me that year.
My love and best wishes
Darren
Live music
Venue: Mapperton House & Gardens
Food: Hungry Mule
Make-Up: Lisa Galvani
