Ella & Gaal — A Spring Wedding at Selden Barns
Some wedding days you have to work for. Others, like Ella and Gaal’s yesterday, hand themselves to you — blue skies, no wind, and a couple who’d clearly decided early on that they were going to enjoy every minute of it.
A ceremony beneath the Sussex Oak Pergola
They got married under the Sussex Oak Pergola at Selden Barns, which on a day like yesterday is hard to beat. The light was gorgeous, guests were sat in close, and there was a really nice, easy feel to the whole thing — none of the stiffness you sometimes get with an outdoor ceremony.
Ella came down the aisle in an Azazie gown that suited her perfectly — soft, simple, nothing trying too hard. Gaal, to his credit, kept it together right up until he saw her — and then did exactly what he was supposed to do.
Bridal prep and makeup
Bridal prep was a really lovely part of the morning to be around. Makeup was by Leah Camilla, and she did a brilliant job on Ella — natural, fresh, and properly bridal without ever tipping into “too much”. You could see Ella’s own face in the mirror the whole time, which is exactly what you want. Calm in the room, no last-minute panics, and a bride who looked completely like herself when she walked out of the door.
If you’re getting married in Sussex and you’re still looking for a makeup artist, she’s well worth a message.
The wedding party
Just the two bridesmaids — one in a black dress, one in a black jumpsuit — and honestly, it really worked. A smaller bridal party always photographs well, and the all-black look had a bit of edge to it without feeling moody. Properly stylish.
The groomsmen were in black tie from Moss Bros, all looking sharp. Standing next to Gaal, it made for one of those group shots that you’ll still be glad to have on the wall in twenty years.
Drinks on the lawn
Ceremony done, rings on, everyone poured out onto the lawn for drinks. This is always one of my favourite parts of a wedding — the formal bit’s behind you, the relief is visible, and the day starts to find its own rhythm. Kids running about, grandparents claiming the only available chair, the usual gentle ribbing of the groom from his mates.
With the sun out and Selden Barns looking the way it does, nobody was in any hurry to head indoors.
The cake
Worth a proper mention for the cake — made by Abby Frape, who also happens to be Ella’s brother’s girlfriend. There’s something nice about that. Cutting into a cake made by someone sitting at one of the tables gives the moment a little extra weight, and it looked (and tasted — yes, I had a slice) brilliant.
A good day
Ella and Gaal — thanks for having me. It was a really enjoyable day to shoot, your families made me feel welcome from the off, and you two made my job an easy one. The gallery will be with you soon.
Barrie
The day in detail Venue: Selden Barns, Sussex Ceremony: The Sussex Oak Pergola Wedding dress: Azazie Groomsmen suits: Moss Bros Makeup: Leah Camilla MUA Cake: Abby Frape Photography: Barrie Downie Photography
