“Here’s s few fab pics from the amazing Liza O’Malley who took some beauties on our very special and amazing day ???❤️??” – Paul & Ian
Candid Documentary Style Photos
I first met Paul and Ian for a coffee at Marwoods cafe for a chat about their wedding. They were both adamant that they wanted candid and fun “free-forming” photos to capture their Grand Brighton wedding. (I’ve got to say this is one of my favourite Brighton hotels for reasons to be revealed….!) They weren’t into formal portraits and wanted to have their day recorded unposed. Naturally, my response was “awesome! that is me to a tee” !!! I love shooting documentary style, candid, chilled and natural. I’m always also up for a bit of a natter and laugh during the day with my couples. This is a really fab way for helping calm pre-wedding nerves and getting to know my couples!
Travel loving Paul and Ian are from Haywards Heath. They both have a passion for photography and enjoy nights out in Brighton. They were planning a fun wedding day, intimate and small – but perfectly formed! The guys were sharing their wedding day with their nearest and dearest families and wanted to create something really special for them to remember. The day started and ended at The beautiful Grand Brighton Hotel. After a moving wedding ceremony at the Brighton Town Hall, there were celebratory drinks back at The Grand Hotel then on to another Brighton favourite Riddle & Finns for a gorgeous meal.
Getting Ready at the Grand Brighton Hotel
I love the Grand Brighton Hotel. I was so lucky. This was the second time in just three days that I had been there photographing couples getting ready. This historic Victorian building is a real piece of Brighton history. Drop-dead ornate luxury and absolutely perfect for spending the nights before and after your wedding. It has stunning balcony views of the Brighton seafront and the most beautiful stunning centrepiece staircase. (I think you can tell I love the Grand)!
The boys had a lovely room on the 5th floor, with amaaaaazing balcony views of the beachfront. Paul and Ian calmly but excitedly got their gears on over a few G&Ts and time to take in the gorgeous view and contemplate their day ahead. They looked absolutely stunning in their matching Gresham Blake designed bespoke tartan waistcoats and trousers. Soon (as wedding days have that way of racing away on you) their family had arrived and joined in for some bubbles, views and excited chit chat.
Walking to the Ceremony
After a lovely time in the boys’ suite, opening gifts, toasting and (putting on their piggy cufflinks) it was time for everyone to head to the Townhall en mass. What a gorgeous summers day, just perfect for the short stroll around the corner to the Brighton Townhall. This also gave me a great opportunity to capture the pre-wedding excitement during the walk along the beachfront. Got some great shots walking past the rainbow wall. Then onto the ceremony at the Brighton Town Hall. After confetti and congratulations followed.
Frolic on the Beachfront
Everyone then popped back to The Grand Brighton Hotel for drinks. Ian, Paul and I made our way to the beach for some casual, fun portraits.
Brighton certain pulls out all the stops on a bright, sunny day. Wow! The turquoise green of railing contrasting against the sea and the tartan of the guy’s waistcoats looked magic.
Paul and Ian were happy to go for a wee wander and have me photograph them whilst they chatted and larked around at the water’s edge. Most couples I work with really enjoy this post-ceremony time alone. They can just chill and reflect a little until the next part of the wedding day celebrations.
Then it was back to the Grand Brighton Hotel for some toasts with family and friends. Finally, last stop for the day….Riddle & Finns. This is where I left them to enjoy their celebration as Mr & Mr!
What a magical day spent with Paul and Ian and their lovely families and some bloomin’ magical images as well! Thank you so much, Paul and Ian, for choosing me as your photographer for your Grand Brighton Wedding.
Congratulations my lovelies what a sublime day!
Credits
Pre-Wedding Prep: The Grand Brighton Hotel
Suits: Gresham Blake
Ceremony Venue: The Brighton Town Hall
Celebration Meal: Riddle & Finns