
I was thrilled when I had to step in as Higher Trapp Hotel Wedding Photographer for my friend Paul Baybut, who had regrettably been forced to pull out of the shooting the wedding due to an incapacitating injury. Please don’t think badly of Paul. I know him well and know he wouldn’t not shoot a wedding unless he absolutely had to. It was a pleasure to step in and help out.
The Higher Trapp Country House Hotel, near Burnley, is a lovely wedding venue which overlooks the Lancashire countryside providing views of the Forest of Bowland and the Fyde Plain leading to the Irish sea. It’s a great looking place, with grand steps leading down to the gardens and the band stand at the back.
Although I’d spoken to Zara briefly over the telephone, I’d not met her or Tony in person before the day. This is rare – I’ve normally met the couple either during booking or during the pre-wedding shoot. I usually know people a little bit and in some cases it’s like reuniting with an old friend!
I was pleased to find Zara and her friends already in high spirits with a little booze flowing. When it came to hairstyles, Zara was the most colourful bride I’d met this season. This aesthetic was also reflected in her bouquet, which was just one of the most detailed bouquets I have ever seen. It was quite heavy and even had lights. I think it was a sensible decision by Zara not to throw it later in the day!
The ceremony room at The Higher Trapp was great. I was able to shoot without concern due to the abundance of natural light. Zara and Tony really enjoyed their ceremony as you would imagine. The highlight of the day for me was, without a doubt, the speeches. Zara brought her friends to tears with her testimonies to their friendship and Tony’s best man brought Zara to tears, (and Tony too, almost) with a simple gift of Rubber Gloves. One can only wonder why rubber gloves would cause such a reaction in the bride and groom.
The first dance was great, enjoyed by everyone, and there was even some group hugging going on once all the wedding guests had joined the dance floor.
I was a good time to be the Higher trapp wedding photographer.
Massive congratulations to Zara and Tony and all the best for the future!
Venue: The Higher Trapp Country House Hotel
Guitar and Vocals: Steven Heath
Hair: Samantha Jaines
Make-up: Jodie-A-Smith Makeup and Hair Team