Claire and Ben were married at the church inside Portchester Castle and then went on to the stunning Tithe Barn, Petersfield for the Reception. It was perfect weather for them but despite all their detailed planning there was one thing that was to surprise them both - Ben's friends from the fire brigade and their fire engine was waiting for them when they came out of the church.
Portchester Castle is so big that the church in the corner looks quite small...until you get close...and it's proportions are huge and has a fantastic atmosphere...
...and is beautifully tended to.
Ben and Claire had a fantastic confetti line up as they left the church.
Then it was into their car (you can see the fire engine in the back window) and off to the Tithe Barn...
...where the weather was fantastic.
Lots of fun was had in the sunshine...
...and some tender moments.
Claire had the most amazing veil to set off her fabulous dress but it was a little breezy so in order to take this photo we enlisted the help of one of the Ushers...
...who took a while to get to grips with the task in hand.
Their speeches were great, full of laughter, touching moments and Ben's recollections of funny things Claire had done...and Claire's protestations of "What else was I supposed to do!"
...and of course there were some wonderfully embarrassing moments for Ben.
Then it was outside so the boys could be boys...
...and girls ;)
Their wedding party still had loads of energy so it was time to blow of steam.
As the perfect day turned into the perfect evening, Claire and Ben were blessed with a gorgeous evening sky.
The boys tested out their specially engraved beer glasses....
...before it was time to go back inside the magnificent Tithe Barn...
...for the First Dance...
....and of course a dance with Dad.
Then it was time for the main event of the day - TIGER FEET by MUD (if you don't know what I'm talking about, ask somebody "of a certain age"). Some songs never get old!
Claire and Ben made a wonderful bride and groom and they loved every minute of their meticulously planned wedding. The venues were amazing, the guests were fantastic and the weather was perfect.
We wish them both the very best for their future together ... and if it is anything like their wedding day it will be perfect.
by Steve Dunster
