Cheltenham Engagement shoot at Smokey Joe’s retro Coffee Bar
You can now check out Rachael & Oli’s Dordogne wedding photos
I’ve had my mind set on doing a Cheltenham engagement shoot in Smokey Joe’s cafe for some time now. For those that have never been, Smokey Joe’s is a retro and vintage Coffee Bar serving great coffees, big waffles and American style shakes. You sit surrounded by vintage collectables, slot machines and retro furniture. There are literally hundreds of items on show from across the decades displayed in a retro 50s style room. The super stylish Rachael and Oli loved it as much as I hoped they would.
Strawberry shakes on order we chatted about their wedding which is taking place in the Dordogne region of France later this year (gah, could this job be any better!) The conversation was easy going, we got on and we laughed a lot. It was so nice to spend an hour or so in their company, to hear about their relationship and lives. For their backstory and a little insight into the world of this lovely couple here’s some words from Oli:
Where & how did you meet?
We met 5 years ago at one of our favourite nights at the warehouse project in Manchester.
Was there a defining moment when you realised you wanted to get married?
When we first met I lived in Leeds and Rachael in London. Following a long distance relationship I moved to London to be with Rachael. After 12 months of living together we bought our first flat and within a month I wanted to marry her!
Is there a proposal story?
I whisked Rachael off to Florence for a surprise weekend away and proposed within view of the ponte vecchio.
How are you finding the planning process?
Quite straightforward actually, Beth our wedding planner and Rachael are in charge!
What are you most looking forward to about the big day?
One massive holiday abroad celebrating with all of our closest friends and family!
Here’s a selection of images from their Cheltenham engagement shoot. Check out the awesome slideshow at the top of page too! Rachael and Oli I am so excited to see you again in France in a few weeks!
Why not check out Rachael & Oli’s Dordogne wedding photos?