“Jonny is amazing at his job – from the little things like being super responsive, carrying a bridesmaid’s backpack to the venue for her(!), but mainly in taking incredible photos. From the momentary reactions to all the big and little things that happen on your wedding day. He’s also super chilled and fun to have around; we can’t recommend him enough.”
Rhodes House Wedding Photos | Central Oxford, UK
I first had the privilege of meeting this lovely couple at Louise’s sister’s wedding which took place at Stour Space Art Gallery in London. I love it when past couples refer me, it’s so nice to rock up at a wedding and see familiar faces. It’s like catching up with old friends!
Louise & David first ‘met’ each other on Tinder, when they were both living and studying in Oxford. Louise was Dave’s first and only Tinder date! They got engaged in South Africa, where Dave is from. He’d made a slightly snap decision that the moment was right, so went on a fake “run” to pick up a ring and a bottle of champagne, which he smuggled down to a tiny secluded beach. Yes Dave! Great champers smuggling my friend 🙂
Here’s the rest of their story told in their own words:
Wedding Day Inspiration
For us we wanted to focus on two or three things that really matter, spend time and money on those, and let other things fall into place. We wanted tasty food, great photography, and a live band – all of which we got! Around that, we just wanted a relaxed, fun day with all our favourite people.
We pinched the idea of writing little guest ‘bios’ for everyone from my sister’s wedding a couple of years ago. They were such fun to come up with, and gave our guests great ways to start chatting to people they hadn’t met before – loads of people have since said they’ll use the idea themselves, so the trend continues! I (Louise) got ready in an Airbnb not far from the venue, and loved the walk through University Parks with my parents and bridesmaids. It’s a walk I’ve done so many times before, and it was a really calm, lovely way to make my way to the ceremony. We also loved having the bridesmaids be our (hilarious, excellent) MCs – a great way to have more women’s voices in the traditionally male-dominated speeches.
Why choose Rhodes House as your Wedding Venue?
It meant a lot to us to be back in Oxford – it has significance for both of us individually, as well as being where we met, so it felt right to be there to make that commitment. Rhodes House itself has amazing architecture and garden. Dave is also lucky enough to get a hefty discount there, which definitely helped!
Tell us about the wedding dress.
My dress was from Whistles – though I tried on quite a few ‘proper’ bridal gowns, I couldn’t quite bring myself to hand over that much money. Then I tried on this one, and felt comfortable, elegant, and totally myself. The ladies at Whistles were also brilliant! I added a bespoke veil from Nina Furness in Cheltenham.
Groom’s & Bridesmaid’s Wedding Fashion?
Dave chose a suit from Reiss, a floral tie from Mrs Bow Tie, a pocket square from TM Lewin, and Russell & Bromley shoes he already owned. Louise had to persuade him to buy a new white shirt, rather than wear the one he has for work!
Bridesmaids chose their own dresses & shoes, with a rough brief of ‘pale pink-ish’, and ended up with a mixture of Asos, Coast, and Benetton. They looked beautiful.
Any advice for those planning their wedding now?
Everyone says it, but make sure you take time to really look around and absorb what’s happening – it goes much too fast. And make a speech! Remember that you’ll never have an easier crowd for a speech in your life.
Choose a few priority things that really matter to you both, focus the money and effort there, and don’t worry too much about the other bits – they’ll happen, they’ll be great, you won’t care that much! Enjoy the process as well as the day itself; it’s so easy to wish it away because of the stress, but it’s such an exciting time.
And don’t order your booze from Asda – they’ll decline your credit card. Twice.
Shout Outs to the Rhodes House Wedding Suppliers
Make up artists: Natalie McFarlane – a very talented friend
Florists: A willing crew of family, with flowers from Triangle Nursery and Bloom & Wild
Rings: Dean Vermeulen, who’d made jewellery for Dave’s family before
Cake: Was made by the bride! Catering Company: Ross & Ross
Entertainment: Pocket Jukebox – The band were so great that when they got cut off by the strict noise curfew, there was an impromptu a cappella rendition of ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ from all those who didn’t want the party to end. We went to the pub, then to a terrible club..
Thinking of having Rhodes House Wedding Photos or using South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3RG as your wedding venue?
Then hit me up via my contact page where you can book a call or fill in my contact form and check my availability.
