Tunnels Beaches Wedding

16 Jan

I recently had the pleasure of photographing Katie and Arron's enchanting Autumn wedding at the stunning Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe. Despite the weather playing a part in changing the original plan for an outdoor ceremony, the day unfolded beautifully, creating unforgettable moments against the backdrop of the breathtaking coastal venue.

Such a laid back couple which suites my style. Katie had one request and that was to do a “first touch” photo, which is the one in front of the main Tunnel. This is where the couples touch each other but do not see each other before the ceremony. They take a tiny bit of organising but the results in that moment can feel very special. I have done only a few of these in my career as a wedding photographer and they are always quite emotional.

The decision to move the ceremony indoors due to the weather didn't dampen the spirits of the couple or their guests. In fact, it turned out to be a stroke of luck, as the all-glass wall overlooking the sea allowed for a magnificent view, creating a picturesque setting for the vows to be exchanged.

One delightful surprise during the ceremony was the inclusion of a reading from one of my favorite poems by Whitney Hanson. It was a touching and personal touch that added an extra layer of emotion to the already special occasion. Moments like these make each wedding unique and a joy to capture.

As the day progressed, a storm was forecasted, adding an element of excitement to the air. However, just before it arrived, nature gifted us with a stunning display of low sunshine, perfectly timed for the couple's shots on Tunnels Beach. With the venue closed to the public for the season's final day, we had the entire beach to ourselves, allowing for intimate and breathtaking photographs.

Tunnels Beaches carries a special historic charm, evident in the old signs and information detailing the history of the tunnels. I couldn't help but be amused by the vintage posters displaying beach etiquette and rules on how to behave in the old days—a charming reminder of the bygone era.

The festivities continued with the unconventional choice of a cake made entirely of cheese, a unique and delicious twist to the traditional dessert. After the cutting of the cheese cake, we ventured into the tunnels for an epic sparkler shot, creating a magical atmosphere that illuminated the historic passageways.

Despite a minor hiccup in the form of getting stuck in the car park for an hour—due to a forgotten code to exit—the day was an absolute joy to capture. The genuine love, the picturesque surroundings, and the unexpected moments made Katie and Arron's wedding truly unforgettable. It was a privilege to document their special day and be a part of the beginning of their journey together as a married couple.