Despite living in Cornwall, I photograph weddings far and wide, all over the UK and beyond. Although not my first visit to Reading, this was my first wedding I’ve photographed there. The wedding took place at Christ the King church in Reading. The reception was at the stunning Mapledurham Estate, outside of Reading in Oxfordshire. It’s a perfect location with the river Thames only feet away and watermills. The groom, John, was from Cornwall but had been living in Reading for the past 10 years where he met Laura. They work as teachers in a primary school. I met up with the couple a few months before the wedding as they were visiting Cornwall. I started the day at John and Laura’s house where Laura was getting ready with her mother and bridesmaids.

It was then a short drive to Christ the King church in central Reading, Berkshire to meet up with John and the groomsmen. John seemed rather nervous but not as nervous as his best man who was dreading his speech later in the day. The bridesmaids arrived in a mini bus followed by the bride.

The new Mrs and Mr Cosgrove left the church and headed to Mapledurham estates. It’s a stunning venue in Oxfordshire located right next to the river Thames complete with a watermill. I took the couple aside for 30 minutes to capture some beautiful couple shots.

The reception meal, speeches and first dance took place in a beautiful marquee. Most people spent the majority of the time outside the marquee as the weather was so sunny and warm. John and Laura even hired an ice cream van for their guests.

I stayed much later than the first dance as the party and fun seemed too good not to photograph. Everyone was lovely and made me feel very welcome. Mapledurham Estate was one of the most stunning locations I’ve photographed. I wish John and Laura a very happy life together and it was an honour and pleasure to capture their special day.