Dulwich Old College Library Wedding | London Wedding Photographer
The story of Alessandra and James's wedding is like a tale of two personalities, creating a day full of contrasts and complements. Their ceremony at Dulwich Old College Library was a nod to tradition, with its grandeur and history setting the perfect backdrop for their vows, followed by a modern, industrial brewery which set the tone for their reception.
After getting ready separately in the morning, Alessandra, dressed in her beautiful long-sleeved Willowby Watters wedding dress covered in pearls, arrived in a classic Fiat 500, a thoughtful surprise from her dad that added a personal touch to the day and an extra detail that really showed off her personality. The wedding ceremony was emotional and personal with the couple reading their own vows to each other (something I always thinks makes that moment so much more memorable), and a friend playing the piano.
The ceremony was followed by confetti and group portraits before the guests made their way to the reception venue and the couple & I went to explore the frankly INCREDIBLE grounds.
We ended up in the Master Library which is filled to the rafters (literally) with old books and paintings. James told me about his time studying at Cambridge and how this venue reflected that side of their relationship and when he'd also met so many of his best friends. As it was a slightly chilly February afternoon we really made the most of the indoor spaces, the couple even had a little first dance practise in the hall before we made our way to the reception.
The old saying "couldn't organise a piss up in a brewery" doesn't apply to these two as that's literately what they did. They wanted a London reception venue that felt relaxed and laidback, that served great food and that had ample beer... where better than at the source! Gipsy Hill Brewery was the perfect setting for all their family & friends to relaxed and neck a few beers…and shots, so many shots.
The 10-piece brass band brought the house down in the evening, with James joining in on the fun and showcasing his musical talents on the trumpet, and not one to be left out Alessandra also did her bit on the drums.
As a London wedding photographer, capturing the essence of this unique celebration was an honour. The contrast between old and new, traditional and modern, created a visual narrative that is always increbile to see on a wedding day. Alessandra and James's wedding was a testament to the beauty of mixing the past with the present, I’m always a cheerleader for doing things your way and A&J definitely did.
Vendors
Venues -
Dulwich College Old Library - https://dulwichevents.com/weddings/
Gipsy Hill Brewery - https://gipsyhillbrew.com/
Flowers - Rebecca Mays - https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamaysflowers/
Dress - Helena Fortley Bridal Boutique - https://helenafortley.co.uk/
Dress designer - Willowby by Watters - https://www.watters.com/willowby/willowby-brides/
Suit - SuitSupply - https://suitsupply.com/
Rings - Laura Nelson - https://www.lauranelson.shop/
Catering - Joe Firepit - https://www.instagram.com/firepit__london/
Band - Brass United Social Club - https://www.instagram.com/brassunitedsc/
Package - All Dayer + extra hour + film
Charlie x
A&J also added analogue film photography to go alongside their digitals, to see those click on this mini blog post
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