Christopher Chard Photography

KIrstea & Brian's Wedding

2012-01-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Kirstea and Brian were married at the picturesque St James the Great Church at Cherhill. We met Kirstea and all the girls at the house in the morning, and wow ! that was a busy house ! On to the church to meet Brian and the boys for a few pictures before Kirstea arrived in style in a fantastic horse and carriage. Kirstea looked amazing ! What a gorgeous dress too ! The vicar was so helpful and allowed me to take some great pictures of Kirstea and Brian exchanging rings. Outside the church, there was a big surprise as some of Kirstea's friends made a guard of honour with wellington boots on sticks !! With Bride and Groom having a nice slow ride to the reception in the horse drawn carriage, everyone had lots of time to get there and enjoy the beautiful Autumn sunshine. At the lovely Marden House we were able to shoot some wonderful pix next to the river Marden amongst the trees with their stunning autumn colours. Lots of family pictures in the garden, before the wedding breakfast began. What a great wedding day !

All the pictures are available to view on my website www.christopherchard.com.

Fiona and Andrew's Wedding

2012-01-10T08:41:00.000-08:00

Fiona and Andrew were married at St Peters Church, in the picturesque Wiltshire village of Kington Langley. We met Andrew and the boys at the pub, close to the church, and after we shot our pictures, we were ready to meet Fiona. The car arrived and there she was ! Fiona looked stunning ! One of the most helpful vicars we have met, allowed us to shoot some wonderful images during the wedding ceremony. Pictures outside church in the sunshine, then off to Grittleton House for the reception. Ann and I should know the grounds here, quite well by now ! The light was perfect and we shot all the formal groups. Plenty of time left to use the gardens for some more relaxed pix, and then of course the majestic staircase. There were speeches to photograph, followed by a great evening party. What a great Wedding day ! All the pictures are available to view on my website at www.christopherchard.com

Kate and Chris's Wedding

2011-12-05T05:25:00.000-08:00

Kate and Chris were married at the picturesque St. Peters Church in the pretty village of Grittleton. Once again the weather was kind which always keeps all the wedding guests in a happy frame of mind. Kate looked stunning and so did all her bridesmaids in some of the most amazing dresses we have seen. As a little bonus we stopped off on the way to the reception at Maud Heath's Causeway for some extra photo's. Reception took place in a monster marquee on a farm. Everyone had a really great day.

Sarah and Chris's Wedding

2011-12-05T04:25:00.000-08:00

The first part of Sarah and Chris's Wedding. Just a small low key ceremony, with the main event planned for next year.

Sarah and Mathews's Wedding

2011-12-05T04:19:00.000-08:00

Sarah and Mathew were married at the wonderful All saints Church in Westbury. It was a lovely day. Great weather, good looking Bride and Groom, friendly guests. It's all you need ! The reception was at the Cedar Hotel in Westbury. Always a pleasure.

Catching up time !

2011-12-05T04:05:00.000-08:00

Ok I think I need to catch up on my blog. I'm going to make a start RIGHT NOW !

Lise and Jon's Wedding day

2011-10-11T14:02:00.000-07:00

Well at Last !! My own beautiful daughter Lise married handsome Jon at The Central Methodist Church in Chippenham. It was always my wish to take the pictures myself, as I didn't want any other photographer shooting the day in his or her own style. It just wouldn't be right !! So I rushed around like a crazyman, from hairdressers salon to our home, and stopping off to get some pix of the groom and his best man getting "suited and booted". I got my own suit on with seconds to spare, and gorgeous daughter and proud father were driven to church perfectly and with style by my brother. This was the time for my talented photographer son to step in and photograph our arrival. The amazingly relaxed minister seemed quite happy for me to capture some special moments during the marriage, and I slipped to the back of the church ready to catch Lise and Jon walking down the isle. Just a few pix at Church, before we were off to the delightful Victorian Manor House - Grittleton House With plenty of time before the wedding breakfast began, we covered all the family groups, and yes I even popped up in the right place when required in some of the pictures. There was enough time for some more fun and relaxed images in the beautiful Italian gardens, and then the impressive staircase in the lovely old house. With the wedding breakfast over, and more friends arriving for the the evening party, my job was still not done yet ! Party pictures to take, and of course the Bride and groom's first dance. I kept shooting until the bitter end. A wonderful wedding day it was ! My gorgeous wife Ann and all our family and friends had a memorable day. Did I manage to combine being Father of the Bride and official wedding photographer ?????? Maybe -just ! Now I am looking forward to designing the most amazing storybook album for Lise and Jon. No pressure then ! !

All the pictures from the day are available to view at my website www.christopherchard.com

Jemma and Steve's Wedding

2011-09-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

Jemma and Steve were married at the beautiful St. Margaret's Church, in the pretty village of Yatton Keynell. Steve and some of the boys had been dodging the rain on the golf course, but when I caught up with them it stopped raining. Jemma and her bridesmaids were getting ready at the beautiful Beechfield House. The wedding took place at the pretty St. Margaret's Church at Yatton Keynell, and when Jemma arrived, she looked stunning ! After the ceremony had taken place, we shot a few pictures in the tiny churchyard, but with not to much space, we all made our way to the reception. Steve and Jemma made a small detour to stop at Biddestone for a few pix by the village pond, then we joined the guests at Beechfield House. The heavy rain ealier in the day meant that we couldn't use the lovely lawns in front of the house, but we found plenty of places in the garden to complete all our family groups. There was even enough time to make use of the unusual obelisk in the grounds for some more "arty" pictures. The evening party was full on. A great wedding day ! All the images are available to view at www.christopherchard.com

Jess and Tony's Wedding

2011-09-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Jess and Tony were married at the beautiful St.Mary the Virgin Church in the lovely Wiltshire village of Grittleton. Jess was getting ready at the OLd Stables in the grounds of Grittleton House and made the short trip to the church with her Mum by horse and carriage. There is not too much room in the church to take many pictures, but we got a few ! More pix outside then Guests were able to stroll across the road to the spectacular Grittleton House With plenty of great picture opportunities in the gardens, we were able to get all the shots we wanted, and still had time to shoot some more inside on the grand staircase. Jess looked amazing, and both she and Tony were having such a great day. Pictures at the speeches followed and then everyone danced the night away ! All the images are available to view by visiting my website www.christopherchard.com

Suzy and Ben's Wedding

2011-08-29T05:15:00.000-07:00

Suzy and Ben were married at the beautiful St Michael's Church in Bath. We don't get to photograph many weddings here. It really is a lovely church inside and the most helpful Rector who allowed us to shoot some fantastic, unobtrusive pictures, during the marriage ceremony. Suzy looked stunning, as did her bridesmaids. With very little room outside the church, we all made for the splendid Wick Farm Barn at Monkton Farleigh for pictures. All the guests were having a brilliant time, and enjoying the gardens in the sunshine. With all the groups photographed, we attempted a daring picture of the whole wedding party. Everyone headed inside for the wedding breakfast in the magnificent 17th century threshing barn and speeches. A great wedding day with nice people ! Susy and Ben's pictures are available to view at www.christopherchard.com

Sarah and Tim's wedding

2011-08-24T13:18:00.000-07:00

Sarah and Tim were married at the wonderful Malmesbury Abbey. Sarah and her lovely bridesmaids were getting ready next door at the sumptuous Old Bell Hotel. These girls were really having a good time too ! We shot some great pictures of makeup being applied and hair being styled. Tim and his groomsmen were getting ready not too far away and we were able to get some fun shots of the boys before they made their way to the Abbey. Meanwhile Sarah was getting into her dress back at the hotel. What a stunning dress ! Sarah looked fabulous ! The lady vicar at the abbey was so helpful, and allowed me to take a few pictures of the marriage ceremony. Only a few pictures at the Abbey, and then a short stroll next door to the wonderful Abbey House Gardens. Barbara who owns the gardens with her husband, is just charming, if just a little eccentric ! allowed me to shoot a unique picture from a bedroom window of all the guests gathered around the well. Every where you look, there is a picture opportunity in Abbey House Gardens, and with Sarah and Tim being so easy to photograph, we could have carried on for hours. A quick stroll down to the river for a last few pix and it was time for the wedding breakfast. Breaking with tradition, the speeches were made on the lawn, which meant great pictures ! and great speeches too ! That led into the evening party with a ceilidh band. What a great day ! We enjoyed every minute !

All the pictures from the day are available for guests to see at www.christopherchard.com

Amy and Ben's wedding

2011-08-24T08:37:00.000-07:00

Amy and Ben were married at the awesome Wellington Barn near Calne. Set in the rolling Wiltshire downs and surrounded by cornfields on all sides, this is an almost unique wedding venue. We had already got some great pictures of Ben and his groomsmen when the "Roller" appeared way in the distance. Amy looked amazing, as did her bridesmaids. For once the registrars wouldn't allow me to shoot a few unobtrusive pictures during the ceremony ( most are very relaxed about this nowadays) Wedding complete and registers signed, we went outside as I balanced precariously on top of my step ladder to shoot a great picture of all the guests. Not too many family groups today but lots of great reportage of guests who were all having a great time. We found some time for some beautiful images of Amy and Ben in amongst the cornfields. Very amusing and touching speeches from every one - including the Bride ! Later in the evening everybody joined in with the dancing to the Ceilidh band.

All the pictures from the day can be viewed by visiting www.christopherchard.com

Clare & Paul's wedding

2011-08-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

What a gorgeous sunny day for Clare and Paul's lovely wedding at Lackham House near Chippenham. Clare was being driven to the ceremony in her dad's beautiful Austin- Healy Sprite. It was some feat for Clare who is a very slim bride to squeeze into the passenger seat especially in her stunning wedding dress, but she made it ! After a very moving ceremony, we all moved to the beautiful gardens, and began with a group picture on the steps. This is a great opportunity with the House in the background. There was enough time to shoot all the family groups before using the rest of the grounds for some more photo's of Bride and Groom. The biggest surprise was yet to come ! Clare and Paul were probably wondering how they were both going to fit in to the Sprite for the journey to the reception marquee. Mum and Dad had secretly arranged for a Horse and Carriage to miraculously appear to take over. This was what Clare had always wanted, and there were a few tears and hugs ! With the weather still perfect, everyone made their way to the marquee. Some great speeches preceded the wedding breakfast, and then the evening disco began. What a enjoyable wedding day !

All the images are now viewable at www.christopherchard.com

Claire and Oliver's wedding

2011-08-24T07:27:00.000-07:00

Wow ! I'm getting just a little behind with my blog, so I'll try to catch up !

Claire and Oliver were married at the sumptuous Close Hotel in Tetbury. Claire and her Mum and Dad and Bridesmaids were taken to the venue in a brilliant VW camper van. This made for some really great pictures. Meanwhile Oli and his groomsmen had made the trip to Tetbury in a very impressive A Team wagon. The ceremony was held in the wonderfully historic old chapel in the garden. After the ceremony, the guests made use of the beautiful gardens while we took our family pictures. There are plenty of great picture opportunities in and around the hotel. After a few more shots with the camper van, we arranged all the ladies for a bouquet throwing moment ! As so often happens a man sneaked in and rose high to catch the flowers ! Your turn for a wedding next now mate !! After some very amusing speeches at the wedding breakfast, the evening disco began, and all the guests came in from the garden to watch Claire and Oli take to the floor for their first dance. As always, any guests can view all the pictures from the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com

Amy and Steve's Wedding

2011-08-22T03:35:00.000-07:00

Amy and Steve tied the knot at St. Peters Church, in Chippenham. Wow ! what a sunny day ! We got some great images inside the church, and then most of the family and friends shots outside in the sunshine. Amy, Steve and their two lovely children headed off in an amazing VW camper van. We made a small detour to the picturesque village of Lacock for some more relaxed pictures down by the ford. When we arrived at the Bell Inn, all the guests were enjoying the sunshine in the garden. What a great wedding ! Amy looked fantastic, and had a huge smile on her face all day ! Great speeches too ! All pictures from the day are available to view at www.christopherchard.com

Debbie and Lian's wedding

2011-06-22T16:16:00.000-07:00

Debbie and Lian were married at the quirky but amazing Priston Mill near Bath. The weather was playing tricks on us, with glorious sunshine one minute and then torrential downpours the next ! Lots of the guests made the journey from South Wales to be part of Debbie and Lian's big day. Debbie was a stunning bride and her dress was absolutely stunning. Well, the rain stopped and we headed for the garden, where we shot some lovely family groups. There was enough time to use the gazebo too for some more relaxed pictures. It's worth mentioning Debbie and the bridesmaids beautiful flowers ! They were just fantastic. I think this was a wedding where everyone was determined to have a really good time. It was a pleasure to be part of the day. All the pictures are available to view at www.christopherchard.com

Matt and Becky's wedding

2011-06-10T06:03:00.000-07:00

Matt and Becky were married at the picturesque St. Georges Church at Preshute. What a lovely old church next to the river ! Becky looked stunning when she arrived at church, and the wedding service was enjoyed by everybody. The reception was at the fantastic Wick Bottom Barn right out in the Marlborough countryside. Our first visit to this wonderful venue ! Hopefully not our last ! Lots of pictures at the Barn, and great speeches during the wedding breakfast. We eventually managed to get all the guests together for a great picture of everyone. Matt and Becky's first dance was the cue for the party to get started and when we finally headed home, the dancing was in full flow. Guests can view all the pix from the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Matt and Laura's wedding

2011-06-10T05:03:00.000-07:00

Matt and Laura were married at the marvelous Kingcote Barn at Tetbury. Most of the guests arrived in the amazing double decker bus Sir Humphrey Baby This fantastic wedding venue in the Gloucestershire countryside is really impressive. Laura was getting ready with all her bridesmaids in the Tallet house at the venue, and she looked amazing, as did her bridesmaids. The ceremony in the barn was great and after family pix in the garden, we used the old bus for more photos. There were fireworks later in the evening too. A great day was had by all. Guests can see all the pix by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Paul and Victoria's wedding

2011-06-10T04:37:00.000-07:00

Paul and Victoria were married at the beautiful Bradley House in Maiden Bradley. What a fabulous choice of venue ! Victoria looked stunning and what a fabulous dress ! It seemed to be a very relaxed wedding day, and all the guests must have enjoyed the wonderful gardens of Bradley House. Paul was a little nervous of having to make his speech, but when the time came, he did a great job. All guests can view all the images by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Matt and Talitha's wedding

2011-06-10T03:46:00.000-07:00

Matt and Talitha were married at the wonderful Abbey House Gardens next to Malmesbury Abbey. The expected rain failed to show up, so we had a brilliant wedding day. Talitha looked stunning, and smiled all day. All their family and guests seemed to be really enjoying the day in this marvelous setting. The speeches were a particular highlight, and the two best men were on top form. All pictures from the day are available to view by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Lindsey and Tracey's wedding

2011-06-10T03:25:00.000-07:00

Well at last ! I'm catching up with some blogging ! Lindsey and Tracey were married at the sumptuous Manor House Hotel at Castle Combe in Wiltshire. Lovely day, and with two gorgeous brides, how could we not take great pictures ? The Italian gardens looked great. Lindsey and Tracey were having a wonderful day with all their family and friends. All the pictures we shot are available to view by visiting www.christopherchard.com with the password.

Jo and Rob's Wedding

2011-05-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

It was our pleasure to photograph Jo and Rob’s wedding at the beautiful Chewton Place at Keynsham this week. We arrived at Jo’s Mum’s for pic’s of the girls getting ready. Jo was a beautiful bride and her dress was amazing. Prep pix done, we headed off to Chewton place to meet up with Rob and his groomsmen. One again the helpful registrar allowed me to shoot some great shots during the ceremony. Most officials are far more relaxed about this now, and about time too ! With all the guests outside on the lawn, I shot upstairs and climbed through the window to get the wonderful shot of everyone from above. We then ran through our formal groups, and with time running out, managed a few pix by the folly. The speeches were great fun, and made for some good photo’s. With the rain making more pix in the gardens difficult, we used the Shelter outside Chewton Place and the impressive pillars for a few more images. The disco was getting going and we were there to cover Jo and Rob’s first dance. That was the sign for the party to really take off and made for some real fun shots. When Ann and I slipped away later in the evening, the party was in full effect ! All guests can view all the pictures from Jo and Rob’s wedding day by visiting www.christopherchard.com

Kirsty and Andrew's Wedding

2011-05-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

Kirsty and Andrew's wedding took place on Saturday at the lovely Christ Church at Swindon. We were made very welcome by Simon the vicar and especially Pam the warden, but first we started the day at Kirsty's house where lots of Bridal preparations were in full swing. After some fun pix there we wizzed off to meet up with Andy and the boys, who were all suited and booted when we arrived ! and when we spotted the table football we knew we had to get some great shots there and the boys didn't disappoint ! Back to Kirsty's then and some shots of the dress being laced, and it was a gorgeous dress ! At the church, the lovely Pam had told me that I could shoot a few images from the front of the church, of the exchanging of the rings etc. Such an important moment ! After the ceremony with bright sunshine and a wicked wind, we ran through a few small groups, before heading off to the very familiar Grittleton House . When everyone had arrived we shot a great image of everyone before concentrating on our group pix. We even had time to persuade the Bridesmaids and Groomsmen to help us with some fun pix walking arm in arm in the garden, and then made the best use of the wonderful staircase inside the house. At the end of the Wedding breakfast, the speeches made for some great shots, and then there was the party in the evening with the disco. We shot some images of Kirsty and Andy's first dance and then the party really got going ! With everyone partying hard, we said our goodbyes. It was a brilliant wedding day. Any guests can see all the pictures Ann and I shot by visiting my website www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Karen and Adam's Wedding

2011-04-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday saw Annie and I on our way to the delightfull Kingscote Barn near Tetbury in the Cotswold's. We have been to this lovely venue before, and we knew how helpful Kelly is to all the guests and especially photographers ! Adam was getting ready at the cottage so we made that our first stop. After a few relaxed pictures of Adam, we were able to photograph Karen's Mum too. Karen seemed very calm in Tallet House, drinking tea with her Dad. The sunshine was just what Karen and Adam had hoped for. As the guests arrived and waited for the ceremony in the garden, no one could have asked for a better day. The Barn is perfect for a Wedding ceremony, and the floral scheme they had chosen looked amazing. Those nice registrars even allowed me to shoot a few pictures during the Wedding itself - thanks guys ! I made sure I shot the important picture from the balcony as Bride and Groom made their exit into the sunshine. With the bubble machine on the lawn in full flow, we set about photographing our list of groups. The kids were having a rare old time trying to pop the bubbles. We had left enough time to shoot some informal portrait's of just Karen and Adam in one or two great locations around the Barn, before the Wedding breakfast began. Great speeches too ! The disco in the evening didn't take too long to get going. Karen, it seems likes a bit of a dance ! and most of the guests did too ! When Ann and I said our goodbyes, the partying was still in full flow. What a great day, and what a super couple Karen and Adam are ! Any guests can view all the images we shot by using the password and visiting my website www.christopherchard.com

Magdalena and Rory's wedding

2011-04-19T03:19:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Magda and Rory's wedding on Saturday. It was just a small wedding, with another larger event planned in a few weeks in Germany. Most of the guests were getting ready at The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury which was the reception venue. We shot some fun pictures of the preparations before heading off to the registry office in Chippenham, which is very pleasant. Not the easiest place to find if you are a visitor, but everyone made it - just ! Magda looked gorgeous, and was really enjoying being the centre of attention. The lovely ladies officiating, know me quite well by now (they should !) and were happy to let me shoot some lovely images during the ceremony. We headed straight back to The Old Bell Hotel where we shot all the family pictures. We had plenty of time to make the best use of the gardens for some fantastic portraits, before walking down to the market cross for more relaxed pictures. The very recognisable front of the hotel made a colourful background for a few arty shots too. Magda and Rory made a good looking Bride and Groom. So easy to photograph ! I wish them well when they do it all again in Germany. All family and guests can view all the pictures from the wedding by visiting my website www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Kirstie and Steve's Wedding

2011-04-19T02:29:00.000-07:00

Kirstie and Steve were married on Friday at the lovely Mill at Rode. Almost perfect weather for wedding photography ! I had the pleasure of photographing Kirstie's sister Lucy's wedding last year to Andy, so I already knew many of the guests. Steve and the boys looked very smart and we shot some great pictures on the bridge over the river. Kirstie arrived with her dad, and looked fantastic ! The ceremony was really nice and the registrar even allowed me to shoot a few pictures of Kirstie and Steve exchanging rings ! After organising a big group shot of all the guests on the steps outside the Mill we all headed for the garden for family and friends pictures. There was just enough time to wizz off to a different location for some more relaxed shots. I'm so glad we did, because Kirstie and Steve relaxed in the beautiful garden, and we shot some really nice, relaxed portraits. Back to the reception, and Bride and groom made their entrance.

Heres's a few images from a fantastic day. All family and guests can view all the pictures from the day by visiting my website www.christopherchard.com and using the password.

Nicole and Luke's wedding

2011-03-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

It was my pleasure to photograph Nicole and Luke’s wedding at the picturesque Bishopstrow House near Warminster. It was my first visit to this beautiful old country house and we were blessed with a lovely spring day. Despite some mystery with Luke’s wedding shoes going missing, everything went smoothly. Nicole and Luke had planned a very intimate wedding with just close family to celebrate their big day. During the wedding ceremony, the lovely registrar ladies allowed me to shoot a few pictures, a trend that is growing – and about time ! We quickly ran through our list of family groups which left us plenty of time to search out some of the attractive spots in the grounds of this very English, Georgian Spa. With only minimum persuasion, we headed down the drive and across the road to a spot on the banks of the river Wylye where there is a magnificent Doric temple. Nicole and Luke relaxed a bit more now that the official part of the day was over, and we shot some great images here. Any guests can view all the pictures from the day by visiting my website www.christopherchard.com and using the password provided. I hope Nicole and Luke are having a very relaxing honeymoon. Here are just a few images from the day.

Julie and Frank's Wedding

2010-12-31T08:45:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas weddings ! On Wednesday I had the pleasure of photographing Julie and Frank's wedding day at the exclusive Manor House Hotel at Castle Combe. The snow had all gone, but the fog had arrived instead ! Luckily the hotel is as photogenic inside as it is outside. Julie and bridesmaid Sarah with the help of some of their girl friends were getting ready in the bridal suite, and after some very relaxed pictures with them, I met up with Best man Paul and master of ceremonies Allen in the local hostelry for some photo's. The wedding ceremony took place in the stunning Dunstaville Suite and once again those lovely ladies from the Register Office allowed me to capture a few special moments. Marriage ceremony over we braved the December weather for family pictures on the steps. With the warmth of the log fires and the champagne attracting everyone inside again we shot some more images in the hotel. Julie made a stunning bride and with new husband Frank, were just so easy to photograph. Best man Paul had everyone in stitches with his speech before the wedding breakfast. Here are just a few images from a lovely wedding day. Guests and family can view all the pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card.

Jenna and Shayne's Wedding

2010-12-31T06:42:00.000-08:00

SNOW, SNOW,and more SNOW !!! Ann and I have shot a few weddings in the snow, but Jenna and Shayne's probably beats them all ! With five inches of fresh snow at the beautiful Grittleton House and a helping of sunshine and a blue sky, this wedding was always going to be a little unusual. Most of the guests made it through the snow and Jenna and her bridesmaids arrived safely thanks to a four wheeled drive. The very kind registrar allowed me to shoot some great pictures during the ceremony and then came the big decision of whether we should head out to the snow, and I was very pleased that Jenna and Shayne lead the way out into the snowy gardens for some memerable wedding pictures. Jenna looked stunning in the snow and we achieved some wonderfull images in the grounds before the girls began to shiver and we went inside to warm up by the log fire. We had time to use the fantastic staircase for some more great shots. This was a wedding day no one will forget. Here is just a taster of some of the images. Family and wedding guests can view all the pictures from the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card.

Beth & Scott's Wedding

2010-12-30T12:13:00.000-08:00

Beth and Scott were married on Friday at the picturesque All Saints Church in Sutton Benger. Brrr !! it was just a little chilly so the plan was not to spend too much time outside in the cold. We began the day with Beth and her two bridesmaids getting ready. Having shot some great pictures there we were off to the Church to meet Scott and his groomsmen, and what a smart bunch of chaps they were! When Beth arrived at Church, she looked stunning in her Grecian style dress. The vicar at All Saints Church is a really nice chap and showed me a great vantage point to get some nice shots of the ceremony. After a very moving service we headed outside for photos, and with an icy wind blowing we didn't take too long to get our posed pictures done. After some fun pictures with the confetti Beth and Scott made the long trip across the road to The Bell House Hotel where everyone headed for the warmth of the Hotel. After the speeches we made some time for more photography inside the Hotel. There were lots more friends arriving for the evening party and to see Beth and Scott have their first dance together as husband and wife. Any guests can view the pictures taken during the wedding day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the webcard. Here are just a few pictures from a lovely wedding day.

Linda and Pauls Wedding

2010-12-22T07:40:00.000-08:00

We had the great pleasure of photographing Linda and Pauls Wedding on Saturday which took place at the impressive Kings Weston House at Bristol. This was our first time at this venue, and hopefully we'll be back before too long. We managed to get some great shots of both Paul and his groomsmen and Linda and her bridesmaids getting ready. The ceremony took place in the beautifull candlelit Great Hall, and Linda made her entrance down the amazing staircase. The whole day was pretty relaxed and we could tell that Linda and Paul and their family were having a fantastic day. We managed to peel the happy couple away from welcoming all their friends for a few formal pictures with family and friends, and then for some very informal photography in the grounds. There were some brilliant speeches from Paul, Linda's Dad and especially the best man Tim and there were some great shots of all the chaps entertaining the guests. The evening party in the Great Hall was a lively affair which was enjoyed by both grown ups and children. When we left, the party was still in full swing. Any guests can view the pictures of the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card. Here are a few images from a fabulous day.

Kevin and Helen's Wedding

2010-12-22T02:02:00.000-08:00

Kevin and Helen's wedding took place at the beautiful St. Nicholas Church at North Bradley. It was all very calm and relaxed at the house where Helen, the boy's and bridesmaids were getting ready, and we shot some nice relaxed pictures. We met Kevin and his groomsmen at the church and Neil his best man was amusing everyone and making sure that Kevin didn't get too nervous. The very helpful vicar was kind enough to let me shoot a few discreet pictures of the very moving wedding ceremony. What a great vicar ! After a few family pictures at the church, we were off to Leigh Park Hotel in Bradford on Avon. There are perfect gardens here, and we whizzed through the formal pictures before heading for the Gazebo for some more relaxed photography with the wedding party. Helen was such a lovely bride, and with Kevin they made a good looking Bride and groom. Family and guests can view the pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card. Here are a few images from the wedding day.

Helen and James's Wedding

2010-11-21T18:41:00.000-08:00

Helen and James's Wedding took place at the beautiful Thomas More Church in Bradford on Avon. We know this Church well. Amazing inside but not too many photo opportunities outside. We had shot some very relaxed and natural pictures of all the girls getting hair and makeup done in the morning and Helen looked amazing when she arrived at church with her Dad. The priest had allowed me to shoot a few pictures during the wedding ceremony and then we went round to the attractive front entrance of the Church for more pictures. The reception was at the wonderful Orchard Leigh House Although the light was fading fast, we managed to get all the pictures we wanted in the beautiful gardens. Inside there was a roaring log fire and we made use of the rooms in this Victorian Stately Home for a few more pictures. What a great wedding day ! All guests can view all the pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card. Her is just a taster of some of the images from the wedding day.

Lisa and Johnathan's Wedding

2010-10-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

Kingscote Barn at Tetury was the venue for Lisa and Jonathan's wedding. Wall to wall sunshine was the order of the day, and the wedding guests were certainly enjoying it. Lisa was such a beautifull bride and her dad looked so proud when he walked his daughter to the Wedding Barn. I'm sure that all the guests enjoyed the very moving wedding cermony and then we headed out to the garden for the family pictures. Kingscote Barn is so pretty and right in the middle of the countryside and makes a wonderful backdrop for wedding pictures. The rose garden and some of the old farm buildings made great places for some more relaxed images. Lisa and Johnathan looked very happy all day. Guests can view the pictures from the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card. Here are a few pictures from a lovely wedding day.

Caroline and Jonathan's Wedding

2010-09-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

The beautiful village church at Ogbourne St Andrew was the setting for Caroline and Jonathan's wedding on Saturday. The weather was kind and with the backdrop of this pretty, rural church, we shot some great pictures. Caroline was a stunning bride and from her happy smile everyone could see that she was having a brilliant wedding day. The reception was in a marquee not too far away, and although there were lots of guests we were able to shoot all the family pictures without too much stress. We even found some time for some more informal photography in the garden. Here are just a few images from a lovely wedding day. Family and guests can see all the pictures from the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card.

Neil & kelly's Wedding

2010-09-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Not too far for us to travel to photograph Neil and Kelly's wedding at the beautiful Grittleton House in Wiltshire. Kelly and the bridesmaids had a great time getting ready in one of the sumptuous cottages at The Manor House Hotel at Castle Combe. When we arrived at the pub in Grittleton, Neil and all his groomsmen were getting ready to walk the short distance to Grittleton House. When Kelly arrived, she looked stunning ! What a beautiful bride she made ! The ceremony was very moving and then we all headed out to the lovely Italian garden. The few family pictures didn't take too long, which left us enough time to shoot some natural and informal images of the guests enjoying the day. We left enough time to shoot some great pictures on the staircase, before it was time for the wedding breakfast and speeches. What an amazing day. The guests were still partying hard when we slipped away later in the evening. Guests and family can view all the pictures from the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the web card.

Tracy and Jeremy's Wedding

2010-09-02T14:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday saw us making an early start in Bristol to meet up with Tracy and assorted bridesmaids and pageboys. With batteries charged up again after yesterday’s event, we shot some cute images of the little ones and Tracy and family. Outside our favourite lady from England’s Finest wedding cars was waiting to whisk the beautiful bride and her brother off to the amazing Chapel at Prior Park College. The traffic was not too helpful, but eventually everyone arrived and Tracy made her entrance. Father Bill was very relaxed about me shooting some unobtrusive pictures during the service, and because of the great light inside, I was very pleased with my images of some very special moments. What a wonderful setting for a wedding ! If only we could have found the time to head down to The Palladian Bridge in the valley ! Maybe another day ? We all made our way across Bath to our favourite Grittleton House for the reception. The gardens still looked great, and with the expert help of the ushers and best man we seamlessly photographed the family shots, leaving us enough time to use the gardens for some more relaxed photographs. We still had the fantastic staircase to use but we found the time to do it justice. Tracy and Jeremy were a joy to photograph, and what a beautiful dress ! They both looked like they were having the time of their lives. In the evening after the first dance, the party was getting very lively, and when we finally said our goodbyes the band were in full swing. Here are a few images from the day. All the images are available to view by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password supplied.

Charli and Matt's Wedding

2010-09-01T13:27:00.000-07:00

Friday saw us heading to Hullavington to photograph Charli and Matt’s Wedding. Charli’s family couldn’t have been more friendlier when we arrived to photograph Charli and her lovely bridesmaids. When Charli and her Dad arrived at the church in a horse and carriage, half the village seemed to have turned up to watch. We had shot some great images of Matt and his two best men looking as relaxed as they could in the Lych gate before they took to their pews. Hullavington church is beautiful, and I even managed to sweet talk the very friendly lady vicar into allowing me to shoot a few unobtrusive, close up pictures of the exchange of rings ! After just a few pictures at the church we all headed off down the road to the exquisite Stanton House Hotel. This venue has so much to offer. Stunning gardens, stylish rooms, a reputation for superb food, and helpful staff. Charli had seemed pretty relaxed all day, and she looked absolutely gorgeous. What a stunning dress ! We just about had enough time to get all our pictures shot, before it was time for the guests to begin the Wedding breakfast. Here are just a few images from the day. All the guests can see the pictures we shot by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password provided.

The Big Band Bash

2010-08-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

We stepped back in time when we photographed The Big Band Bash at the Assembly Hall in Melksham on Saturday. The whole building had been decked out in 1940’s style. There was even a Naafi selling cups of tea and pasties. Most of the guests had made a huge effort to dress the part and it all made for a great event. Everyone can see the pictures we shot on the night by visiting The Dig for Victory Website

April and Scott's wedding

2010-08-25T11:15:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of photographing April and Scott’s wedding on Saturday. It was quite a late wedding, and as often happens at Swindon register office, they were running a little late! but no one seemed to mind. I think both April and Scott were pretty nervous before and during the ceremony, but as soon as the official part of the day was complete, they both relaxed and started to enjoy the day. Once all the guests had arrived at the reception venue, we were under a little pressure to shoot the family and friends group pictures we had planned as the sky was getting very dark. April looked stunning in her beautiful wedding dress as did all the bridesmaids in their pink dresses. All the men looked very smart too with particularly stylish button holes. Any guests can view the pictures by following the instuctions on the web cards and using the password at www.christopherchard.com

Catherine and Kevin's Wedding

2010-08-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

Catherine and Kevin's Wedding at Cumberwell Park golf club on Friday was our first visit this year to this friendly venue near Bradford on Avon. Meeting up at Catherine's mum's house where all the girls were getting ready, the bridesmaids looked amazing in their seriously pink dresses and Amy, Cath and Kev's adorable little daughter was set to steal the show. Catherine looked stunning and her dress was fabulous. After shooting some lovely pictures of all the girls getting ready, we met up with Kevin and his two best men. All three chaps looked really smart, and we took our pictures on the steps before the bridesmaids appeared in their stretch limousine. The ceremony was really moving with one of their friends singing two songs beautifully. The second song was "you'll never walk alone" which tells you where his football allegiance lies ! After the ceremony, we made sure we got our shot of all the guests first, and I even persuaded the all to wave like crazy at me while I tried not to fall off the high wall I was stood on. The best men were pretty helpful in organizing the group pictures which meant we got all our pictures done before we were called inside for the wedding breakfast. The food is usually of a very high standard at Cumberwell so I expect all the guests enjoyed their meals. The speeches were spot on, with both best men doing their part. We talked the bridesmaids and best men into helping us out with some more relaxed photo's in the wedding garden. They were all great sports even when we asked them to link arms and march up and down the lawn ! It was worth it for the fun pictures we got. When the evening got going, we could tell that all the girls were up for a party ! (and some of the boy's too ! ) and we got some great fun pix of Cath and Kev's first dance and everyone joining in. When we said our goodbyes, the party was going strong. Guests can view all the pictures we shot by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

Michelle and Damon's Wedding

2010-07-15T07:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday saw us heading to Swindon to photograph Michelle and Damon's wedding at the beautiful St Margaret's Church in Stratton St. Margaret. We were starting with Damon and his groomsmen and when we arrived at the house where they were getting ready, we were pleasantly surprised to find them all suited and booted ! . Probably a first for us ! And they looked really smart too. We then headed for Michelle's Mum and Dad's house where the girls were far from ready. Usual situation for us ! We got some lovely getting ready shots before we had to leave for the church. I need to mention the Reverend Vicky Fleming, who was really helpful to us. She was quite happy to let me take up a position in the church in front of Michelle and Damon, which allowed me to shoot some very special moments as they made their promises to each other. What a lovely lady vicar ! The reception was at the wonderful Stanton House Hotel just north of Swindon. It is always a pleasure to photograph weddings here. The grounds are great, the staff are extremely helpful, and the food is of a very high standard. Michelle and Damon were having such a great wedding day. Michelle was a fabulous bride, and her dress was so beautiful. She smiled all day ! After the wedding breakfast and speeches, we had a chance to shoot some more pictures. These were a bit more fun and quite relaxed. How we persuaded all the groomsmen and bridesmaids to race up and down the lawns I don't know ! We finished off with some great images of bride and groom in the natural garden. After the pictures of the first dance, Damon's brother's band entertained all the guests, so we shot some cool pictures of the band rockin' the place. When we headed back down the motorway, the band were in full flow. Family and Guests can view all the pictures at the wedding by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

Karen and Matt's Wedding

2010-07-06T17:02:00.000-07:00

After our exertions on Saturday, Sunday saw us setting off bright and early (well early anyway! ) heading for the spectacular Rhinefield house, tucked away in the New Forrest. This was our first visit to this beautiful venue and we can’t wait to go back again. Karen and her three bridesmaids were all pretty relaxed when we arrived. We reckoned Karen had planned the day perfectly judging by the time plan on the pin board. We were blown away by Karen’s dress. It was stunning ! and when Mum had laced her up expertly, she looked fabulous. The big surprise arrived outside the house, in the form of the wedding bug, a red and cream 23 Window Samba VW camper van. I think Karen had been wondering how she was going to get all that dress into Dad’s mini ! So bride and Dad arrived in style at the venue. The ceremony took place in the great hall and I managed to get some lovely pix without having to resort to using flash. Photographing the family and guests in the spacious gardens was a real pleasure, and there was enough time to set up some fun shots with all the girls and then the boys (when we could locate Will that is ! )

The bridesmaids were wearing amazing red dresses and we got some really fun pictures – thanks girls ! The best was yet to come as we were treated to some Morris dancing on the lawn after the wedding breakfast, and of course Matt and some of his mates were (easily) persuaded to join in the final dance. This involved waving big sticks, and surprisingly all their knuckles remained intact – just. When we had photographed the Bride and Grooms first dance and some of the guests too, we headed back to Wiltshire. What a tiring but very satisfying weekend it was, and we will do it all again next weekend !

All family and guests can see all the pictures we shot on the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were provided.

Sara and Andy's Wedding

2010-07-05T15:41:00.000-07:00

Our wedding on Saturday was at our favourite Grittleton House, which is almost on our doorstep ! When we met up with Sara at her parent’s house all the girls were having so much fun getting ready, Mum and Dad made us really feel really welcome. After some getting ready shots we went out into Nigel’s lovely garden for a few pictures before we wizzed off to find Andy and the boys at Grittleton. After the very moving ceremony we headed for the lovely grounds for some pictures. With the sun shining, everyone was in a very happy mood and we were able to get all the shots we wanted. The Italian gardens looked gorgeous in the sunshine. Sara and Andy were having the time of their lives on their wedding day. After the speeches there was an opportunity to explore the house and grounds for some more relaxed portraits. Sara’s dress was just beautiful as was Sara ! and we shot some really pleasing images on the very grand staircase with the large windows. We had a stroll in the grounds and with the pressure of the speeches out the way, Andy was much more relaxed. Sara had been pretty relaxed all day, and was enjoying being in front of the camera, and I was able to capture some special moments. It was such a warm evening that no one was that keen to hit the dance floor inside but eventually Sara and Andy performed their first dance to get the evening started, and the disco was in full swing when we left. Any wedding guests can view all the pictures we shot at Sara and Andy's wedding by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

Gemma and Stephen's Wedding

2010-05-12T11:10:00.000-07:00

Gemma and Steve were married at St. Michael's Church in Melksham on Saturday. It was a good day to get married as it was our wedding anniversary too ! Now when we were married, the sun shone and it was a lovely warm day. Not so on Saturday ! It was COLD and it rained on and off all day. Luckily it didn't spoil a fantastic wedding day for Gem and Steve. We got some great fun shots as Gemma and her bridesmaids were getting their hair and makeup done, and all the girls seems quite relaxed, although the champagne might have had something to do with it. Steve and the groomsmen looked incredibly smart in their morning suits, and I could tell that Steve was getting just a wee bit anxious as the clock ticked round to 3 oclock. When Gemma arrived at the church in her carriage pulled by what seemed to me to be a very large horse, she looked beautiful ! No good me trying to describe her dress, but it was amazing. In church the very helpful vicar even allowed me to shoot a few pictures from the choir stalls as they exchanged rings and had their first kiss. It's really dark in church, but the pro digital cameras we use give us a fighting chance of capturing those special moments with out resorting to flash. As we all came out of church the biting wind hadn't gone away, but we did shoot most of the important group pictures outside the church door, before Gemma and Steve disapeared off for a ride in the horse and carriage. Melksham House is not somewhere which Annie and I get to photograph weddings often. The gardens outside are very pretty and we just hoped that the bride and groom would allow us some time later on to shoot some more relaxed pictures under the cherry blossom tree - which they did ! Inside the venue with everyone warming up, the party was in full swing, and when it was time for the speeches, the poor men did their very best to entertain. I think John the best man was the most nervous, but everybody laughed in the right places. After the first dance, the evening disco got underway in earnest, and when Ann and I said our goodbyes the party was in full flow ! All the guests can view all the pictures we shot by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

Sarah and Adam's Wedding

2010-04-27T14:45:00.000-07:00

Sarah and Adam chose a perfect sunny day for their wedding at Hilperton Church on Saturday. I may have mentioned before, but bright sunshine gives wedding photographers an extra set of challenges, and if we could choose the weather it would be hazy sunshine - but we can't !. Sarah's family is quite large, and she has four sisters, so her bridesmaids were already sorted, and they all looked fabulous ! The wedding service was quite moving with Pastor Una playing a large part in the marriage ceremony. Sarah and Adam left the church in an amazing vintage Bentley belonging (and driven) by Adam's grandfather. As we arrived at the Golden Gates at the entrance to Bowood golf and Country club, we stopped for a few pictures. That really is an impressive gateway to the golf club and new hotel. With well over a hundred guests at the wedding, it was quite a challenge to get every one in the right place for the family group pictures, but with a little help we got them done. We finished off with a huge group picture of everyone there. Knowing the right people to ask, I was able to climb out onto the roof to get the perfect shot (sounds dangerous I know - but not really). Everybody there was so helpful and friendly to Ann and myself, and we just got carried away - took far too many pictures ! I forgot to mention that Adam looked the business too and so did his best men and ushers, especially the shy and retiring Nathan ! I could see that everyone was enjoying the wedding breakfast, Bowood always provide first class food. Later in the evening when Sarah and Adam got the disco stared with their first dance, every one was in the mood for a "boogie". I reckon there were some tired folk by the end of the night. What a great wedding ! All the guests can view Sarah and Adam's wedding pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password provided.

Liz and Matt's Wedding

2010-04-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

Liz and Matt were married at the beautiful village church in Sherston on Saturday. They had chosen probably the best and sunniest days of the year so far, so all their guests were in a great mood. Liz looked amazing and her dress was really special. I don't think she was looking forward to being photographed all day, but I hope Ann and I made the experience less of a scary event. Sherston Church is such a pretty church both inside and out and the vicar, Eve Pegler even allowed me to unobtrusively take a few pictures from the front of the church, as Liz and Matt made their vows. The reception was at the amazing Abbey House Gardens in Malmesbury. Barbara and Ian, the owners have created the most wonderful garden next to the Abbey. Purely from a photographers point of view, there can't be many places in the south west with better photo opportunities - particularly for a wedding. Everywhere you walk, there is an arch or a tree or a seat or a water feature which is crying out for a bride and groom. I love it ! Even though Liz and Matt were enjoying being among their family and friends, they still gave us enough of their time to capture some lovely images all around the large gardens. They had arranged for a karaoke rock band to entertain everyone during the evening, and the newly weds were first in the queue for the microphones, and when we finally said our goodbyes, the band were still rockin'

www.abbeyhousegardens.co.uk/ is a excellent place to visit, and is well known for the rather eccentric owners AKA the naked gardeners ! (and yes they do sometimes). All family and guests can see all the pictures we shot by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password provided.

Lucy and Andrew's wedding

2010-04-12T08:28:00.000-07:00

Weddings can be a touch stressful, but Lucy and Andrew's wedding on Saturday at the beautiful St Bartholomew's Church in Corsham seemed to be almost stress free ! Firstly, the spring sunshine made an appearance all day, so maybe that put everyone in a relaxed frame of mind. Perhaps Lucy's renowned organizational skills meant that everything had been thought of. Either way, the wedding went very smoothly, and everyone there wore a big smile all day, even though some of the guests missed part of the day as they sat in a huge traffic jam on the motorway, and even when the vicar forgot to give Andrew the chance to seal the wedding with a kiss - you know, "you may now kiss your bride ! ! " Anyway they soon made up for that as soon as they had walked down the isle ! The reception was at the fantastic Lackham Countryside Centre near Lacock. The gardens at Lackham are great, with some great picture opportunities, and lots of daffodils lining the drive up to the house, even if the ground was a little spongy ! Both Mums and Dads were very friendly and helpful, and the bridesmaids and groomsmen were great fun. Lucy was a beautiful bride and what a perfect dress !! Andrew was a very lucky groom, and they made our job so easy. Any family and friends can view the pictures which Ann and I shot, by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

Kerry and Darren's wedding

2010-03-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we had a great time photographing Kerry and Darren’s wedding at the beautiful Grittleton House in Wiltshire. Despite the cold and the grey skies, we talked all the guests into coming outside for a very quick photo session. Darren and all his groomsmen looked great in top hat and tails, and of course we had to photograph them throwing their hats in the air – it’s mandatory you know ! Kerry was a stunning bride, and her dress was gorgeous. She had three bridesmaids, and they looked amazing too. I think Kerry was a touch nervous during the wedding ceremony in the magnificent library, but once the ceremony was over, she relaxed a bit and hopefully enjoyed the rest of the day. We certainly enjoyed being part of the wedding day. Everyone was very friendly and helpful to us. Wedding guests can view all the pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password provided

Leann and Neil's Wedding

2010-02-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

We had the huge pleasure of photographing Leann and Neil's wedding on Saturday. It was quite an intimate wedding with just close family and friends attending the ceremony at the lovely Chippenham Registry Office. Neil's two sons looked really smart as did Leann's nieces and nephews who were bridesmaids and groomsmen. Leann looked fantastic, and what a spectacular dress ! She has a naturally happy smile, and didn't stop smiling throughout the whole time we were there. We persuaded Bride and groom to brave the bitter wind and stop off on route to the reception at the local park, and talked the park keeper into opening up the bandstand for us to shoot some more relaxed images. I love taking pictures in that spot, so out with the fish eye lens for a few "arty" shots. Leann and Neil seemed very relaxed about posing together despite the onlookers and biting north wind, but before frostbite set in we headed back to the reception, where we talked the bridesmaids and groomsmen into some last pictures before the wedding breakfast began. What nice people they all were. They made our job very easy. All the guests can view the wedding pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the cards which they picked up on the day.

Victoria and Philip's Wedding

2010-01-14T04:48:00.000-08:00

Victoria and Philip were married at Clearwell Castle, which must be one of the magical places in the South of England. We love any opportunity to photograph weddings at this amazing medieval and elegant Castle in The Forrest of Dean. Tori and all her bridesmaids which were her four sisters, were getting ready at the castle in the keepers cottage along with their Mum. Can you imagine how much fun they were all having, getting ready for Tori's big day ? Phil, with his two best men and ushers were getting ready in a different part of the castle, and were demonstrating their prowess with the ironing board! Tori looked stunning as she walked up the isle with her Mum. With most registrars being more relaxed about allowing photographers to capture some of the special moments of the Wedding ceremony, I was able to get great shots of Tori and Phil exchanging their rings and sealing the marriage with a kiss - thanks guys ! Now remember, this is the middle of December, it's freezing cold outside and there is a roaring fire just inside (AND A BAR) Somehow we persuaded all the guests to brave the cold and come outside for some pictures. Tori who must have been shivering, and Phil braved the cold while we shot all the family pictures we had planned, and even allowed us to shoot some great images as we had a quck tour of the castle grounds - much respect ! Clearwell Castle never fails to make every wedding very very special. The food was first class and the speeches were great. The evening party down in the cellar was a big hit with everyone, and as the disco went on, the dancing got pretty crazy ! By the time we left, we could see that all the guests had a wonderfull day. All the guests can view Tori and Phil's Wedding pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com using the password on the cards provided.

Aimme and Neal's wedding

2009-11-23T01:21:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure of photographing Aimee and Neal's Wedding at the fabulous Grittleton House just north of Chippenham on Saturday and guess what ............... it rained all day ! Well most of it anyway . It certainly diddn't put the dampers on the wedding though. Aimee looked fabulous and what a dress ! With all five bridesmaids in black dresses, we shot some stunning images of all the girls. Getting in and out of the stretch limmosine proved to be fun ! Neal is a local builder and as a little surprise, some of his work buddies provided a guard of honour after the ceremony using some very shiny shovels. It wasn't too long before they were all leaning on them, and some of the guests commented that it was a much more natural pose ! With the rain still falling outside, It made the decision to take our family pictures inside an easy one. Luckily Grittleton House has some wonderfull picture oportunities inside this beautifull old building so we able to get "arty"..Eveyone at the wedding seemed to be in a party mood which carried on into the evening, and there was some wild dancing still going on when we left late into the night. Any of the guests can see all the best pictues we shot throughout the day by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password on the card.

www.christopherchard.com

Stuart and Kayleigh's wedding

2009-11-02T04:27:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of photographing Stuart and Kayeigh's Wedding at the lovely St. Bartholomew's Church in Wootton Bassett on Saturday. Being Halloween I was half expecting everyone to arrive in Halloween costume ! but no one did ! Having heard the weatherman suggest that we might get some showers, I was very relieved to be greeted with a lovely day in Wootton Bassett. All three gorgeous bridesmaids shivered a little bit as they waited for Kayliegh to arrive, and their fabulous pink shoes were a talking point among most of the guests. When Kayeigh arrived she looked stunning. She had a smile on her face which lasted all day. Little Oscar didn't quite know what to make of his mummy dressed like that, but after the ceremony, decided to pose for me and everybody. After the family photo's, Stuart and Kayleigh had a walk along to the famous Town Hall on stilts, and although the light was fading fast, we managed to shoot some beautiful and relaxed pictures while every other passing car hooted their horn ! By this time all the guests were settled in the Phoenix club. My first time there. It is a bit like the tardis in that it looks small from the outside but is huge in reality one you get inside. A very nice venue ! Just a word about the cake, which was actually a whole selection of little cakes and looked very enticing. All the guests can view all the pictures I shot on the day by visiting my website www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

Connie and Andy's wedding

2009-10-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

On Friday I had the good fortune to photograph Connie and Andy's wedding at the lovely Limpley Stoke Hotel, near Bath. The weather had been threatening to spoil the procedings, but as luck would have it, soon after the ceremony the rain dried up and we persuaded the guests to leave the warmth of the bar and come outside the hotel for some photographs. It was quite an intimate wedding with just close family and friends. Connie looked so beautiful and her dress was amazing and even though it was a dull damp day, she was happy to be photographed outside in the hotel grounds. Andy's very cheeky boys who were ushers and ring bearers were having a great time, and they really did look smart in their wedding suits ! I could tell that all the wedding guests were enjoying the day imensley and they were especially helpfull to me all day. The guests can view Connie and Andy's pictures by visiting christopherchard.com and using the password the were given.

The Wedding of Sarah and Ashley

2009-10-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful day on Saturday photographing the Wedding of Sarah and Ashley. The wedding took place at the picturesque village Church of St. Michael and All Angels in Urchfont, and the reception was at the beautiful Lackham House. Sarah was the perfect bride, and she looked gorgeous as did her bridesmaids. There was a surprise in store for the Bride and Groom outside the church, as their parents had arranged for some doves for them to release. At Lackham we managed to arrange all the guests on the lovely steps in the garden for a picture of everyone. We had a great time photographing most of the guests who were enjoying the colourful gardens and we shot some relaxed and fun shots of Sarah and Ashley all around the grounds. Needless to say we got some fine images around the ornamental pond and fountain, and near the pillars of the rosewalk. The speeches were great and Sarah's Dad's DVD of Sarah growing up and performing brought a few tears to the eye. Ashley had booked a wonderful jazzy kind of band which went down so well, and their first dance ended with all the guests joining in. By the time we left, the party was in full swing. All the guests can see all our pictures by visiting www.christopherchard.com and using the password they were given.

My winning picture !

2009-09-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

Feeling rather pleased with myself today ! I entered an image from a recent wedding (Simon and Nicole) into a competition run by the SWPP which is the proffessional association I belong to. This was a national copmpetion with the theme of Water, and judged by my peers who are some of the best photographers up and down the country. Simon and Nicole kindly gave me permission to enter the picture (below) and I am pleased to say that I came joint first. It is a great image, and it was slightly "photoshopped". Simon and Nicole were so easy to photograph as well as being a good looking bride and groom. Nice to top this competition, especially as it was judged by other professional photographers.

Chris and Rebecca's Wedding

2009-09-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

I was privileged to be asked to photograph Chris and Rebecca's wedding on Friday. They had chosen Leigh Park Hotel at Bradford on Avon. This has always been a very friendly hotel and I have photographed many weddings there in the past. Since my last visit, there have been lots of improvements, in particular a fabulous conservatory with big windows all round making it a photographers dream with lots of light. The ceremony took place here. Rebecca looked gorgeous and her dress was stunning. Somehow a barn owl featured in the wedding !! What a beautiful creature it was. Rebecca was so surprised when this lovely bird flew across the garden to land on her hand. All the children were able to stroke her and I got some great pictures. The best man Tom, and the three bridesmaids joined in the fun, and we shot some really fun pictures running across the garden. There were some very funny and emotional speeches before the Wedding Breakfast, and all the guests can view all the pictures by using their password at www.christopherchard.com

Nick and Vicky's Wedding

2009-09-15T01:47:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we had the pleasure of photographing Nick and Vicky's wedding at the historical Sign of The Angel restaurant in the National Trust village of Lacock. It was a quite small and intimate wedding with not everyone being able to fit in to the room where the ceremony took place. The sun shone all day, which made photography a little tricky, especially in the garden amonst all the trees. After the family pictures were taken, we took Nick and Vicky for a walk around the village for some more pictures. Vicky looked stunning and smiled all day, even when I asked her to climb all over some of Lacock's ancient monuments. Nick is a lucky chap ! but I think he knows that ! All guests can view all the images by using the password they have been given at www.christopherchard.com

Simon and Nicole's Wedding

2009-09-08T01:18:00.000-07:00

Simon and Nicole were married on Saturday at Lackham House. This is a brilliant venue, with beautiful gardens and very helpfull staff. Simon and Nicole greatly enjoyed being photographed, and made a hansome Bride and Groom. The weather was perfect for photography - bright and overcast, and although it did begin to rain when it was time to be called in for the Wedding breakfast, we had got all the pictures we wanted. In the evening, Simon and Nicole had arranged for a really cool jukebox to supply the tunes. What a beautiful Bride Nicole made. Her dress was amazing, kind of gold raw silk, and her two bridesmaids looked fabulous too ! She didn't stop smiling all day. Any family or friends with the password can view all 346 images by visiting www.christopherchard.com

Jo and Darren's Wedding

2009-08-17T07:47:00.000-07:00

Jo and Darren were married in Chippenham and had their reception in Yatton Keynell. The weather was not too sunny - just as I like it ! They were taken to the reception by horse and carriage. Jo was a beautiful bride and they made a good looking couple. The grooms buddies were were a bit too cheeky ! They were all having a good time ! The bridesmaids were great too, and so helpful. Any family and friends can view Jo and Darren's pictures if they have the password by visiting www.christopherchard.com

Jenny and Richard's Wedding

2009-08-10T07:23:00.000-07:00

Jenny and Richard were married at The wonderful St. Pierre Hotel and country Club in Chepstow. This is a venue we don't often get to photograph Weddings at - Sadly ! Jen looked georgeous and Rich was a very lucky guy. The sun never stopped shining all day, and all the guests were in such a jolly mood. Jen and Rich released two doves which was really sweet and gave us a great picture opportunity. There are so many brilliant places to take pictures, and Jen and Rich were so natural with each other, which made our task just so eeeasy !!! We arrived home very late but very pleased with the images we had shot.

Sharon and David's Wedding

2009-08-10T06:59:00.000-07:00

Sharon and David were married in Chippenham, and their reception was in the splendid Angel Hotel. The two lads in kilts looked the biz ! It was a mystery as to what they were hiding in their sporrens. The sun shone all day and everyone was very happy. Sharon looked a million dollars and was still smiling when we went home, Any guests with the password can view all the pictures at www.christopherchard.com

Suzy and Mark's Wedding

2009-08-03T02:36:00.000-07:00

Suzy andMark were married at the picturesque St.Cyriacs Church in Lacock.We did get a bit wet as the guests arrived, but it stopped in time for us to get some great pictures. I think Suzy and Mark enjoyed their ride in the horse draw carriage. Wow those horses were big ! The reception was at Shaw country Hotel, a venue we know really well, and Emma and all her staff worked so hard to ensure that everyone had a great time.

Chris and Emma's Wedding

2009-07-27T15:38:00.000-07:00

Chris and Emma were married at Eastwood Park, just north of Bristol. This was a new venue for us, and we had a fabulous time. All the guests couldn't have been more helpfull to us. The sun shone all day and Chris, Emma and all their family and friends were determined to make the Wedding day as much fun as they possibly could ! Those cheeky ushers were rather a handfull too !