Charlene and Mike: Archbishops Palace and Chatham

September 15, 2008

Charlene drinking a cup of tea before her wedding to Mike att eh Archbishops Palace in Maidstone

Time for tea! When I arrived at the George Hotel in Chatham, Charlene was casually drinking a cup of tea and chatting to her bridesmaids about her wedding to Mike at the Archbishops’ Palace in Maidstone. Not quite as laid back as my most relaxed bride ever - but total calm. No fuss and no drama.

Mike prepares for his wedding by playing pool

Now of course the guys were relaxed. But that’s because they got to hang out in the bar. With Sky Sports. And a pool table :)

And then it was time. Hair and make up done, bridesmaids looking fabulous, stunning dress and cathedral veil. And Charlene was ready.

Charlene ready for her wedding to Mike by top wedding photographer Jonathan Ryan

Wow.

Even the guys made an effort and were suited and booted. Couldn’t tear them away from the pool table though….

Mike Lewin with his father in law, best man Loz and usher ready for his wedding.  At the pool table.

The venue for the wedding was the rather fabulous undercroft of the Archbishop’s Palace in Maidstone. Photography in there can be a little bit tricky - mainly because it’s dark! A 14th century building wasn’t really built for photography and the windows are a little small. I hate using flash during a ceremony because it can be very off putting and disturb what is supposed to be a very special celebration. Sometimes though, it’s not about how much light there is - but where it is.

Charlene and Mike sign the register at their wedding at the Archbishop's Palace in Maidtone - expert low light photography by Jonathan Ryan of MyWeddingStory

A steady hand, the latest equipment, lots of experience of low light photography and just a little bit of luck can work miracles ;)

As we came out of the Palace, the sun shone, the sky was a gorgeous blue and it seemed like the whole world was smiling. A far cry from last week! Naturally we went down to the river for some portraits.

Charlene and Mike at the Archbishops Palace in Maidstone - stunnign wedding photography from MyWeddingStory

And then it was time to go back to Chatham for more pictures and a party!

Of course, if you’re going to look that fabulous, you need to travel in style. Karen’s Cars provided their beautiful white Beauford and John, the very accommodating driver put it exactly where I wanted it for a couple of pictures.

Whit Beauford in Chatham photographed by Jonathan Ryan

And even though it was a glorious day there were a couple of reminders that autumn isn’t far away. Much as I love the summer, I can’t wait for the gorgeous colours of autumn.

Autumn leaves and a bride and groom - quality wedding photography by Jonathan Ryan

And then it was time for the party! And a chance to catch up on how the day had gone.

Katrina reviews a video of Charlene and Mike's wedding at the reception in Chatham.  MyWeddingStory: Details Matter.

And then the first dance…….

First cdance photography by low light photography expert Jonathan Ryan

Charlene and Mike have already booked their appointment at the gallery to view their pictures the day after the return from honeymoon. They will be online as soon as they are back. In the meantime please leave your messages for them below.

Comments

4 Responses to “Charlene and Mike: Archbishops Palace and Chatham”

  1. samantha packman on September 16th, 2008 12:43 pm

    the few pics that are here are lovely. looks like you had a perfect day. and have some very special photo’s to help you to rmemeber, though im sure you wont forget xxx

  2. Nan+grandadF. on September 20th, 2008 8:43 am

    charlene and mike
    How lovely you looked charlene and mike
    the bridesmaids were stunning and the sun shone.A perfect setting for your special day.We look forward to seeing the photoswhen you come home from your honeymoon.

    nan+ grandad F.xxxx

  3. MUM and DAD L on September 28th, 2008 6:42 pm

    What a wonderful day had by all, the day sure was wonderful and the great weather and fantastic wedding and reception will stay with you forever.
    You both looked great and I know that all was wonderful plus you had a fantistic time
    love always mum and dad

  4. Fanise on October 4th, 2008 9:20 pm

    both of you looked beautiful,and i had fun,and i guess everybody else did,may God bless you always,

Got something to say?