Sidney Sussex College

Lou and Link

Lou and Link’s wedding at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge was picturesque! As it states on their website, only couples with a close connection to Sidney Sussex College can hold their wedding ceremony in the college chapel. It turns out that Lou and Link’s close conection came in the form of Lou’s Dad who was formerly a Professor at said institution.

Founded in 1596 by Lady Frances Sidney, Countess of Sussex, the College is home to a diverse and dynamic community. Sidney is a very well-kept secret. It’s Nobel Prize-winners, Elizabethan brickwork, charming Cloister Court, haunting Chapel, exquisite rococo Hall, medieval cellars, or beautiful ancient gardens all lie behind a self-effacing wall of Roman cement. I hope that Lou felt like Lady Frances for the day!

April (Snow) Showers

Before this wedding, I was aware of the well-known phrase ‘April Showers’. I wasn’t aware though that this referred to snow! Indeed, whilst we were shooting the formal groups outside the college chapel, the sunshine tunred to chilly snowflakes! One minute out newlyweds were hand in hand on the lawn, the next they’re sheltering in a 16th century doorway!

Luckily the snow lasted all of one minute and I was relieved to see the sun come out again. Whilst the guests enjoyed drinks among the cloisters, Lou, Link and I had a walk around the private gardens. There are few backdrops as authentic as the ancient college buildings combined with groomed lawns and all the wild flowers of early spring in bloom.

Great Hall

I enjoy photographing the room set-up for the wedding breakfast at every wedding. There are almost always interesting and beautiful decorations provided by specialist suppliers and the families and friends of the couple. The Great Hall at Sidney Sussex College added another level to this. The sheer size of room with it’s ornate high ceiling, huge windows and mezzanine balcony is only matched by the series or portraits adorning it’s walls. I was impressed by Lou’s Dad doing his Father of the Bride speech. You could tell he was used to public speaking, as his confidence, knowledge and turn of phrase had everyone entralled.

Thanks to Lou, Link, their friends and families and the staff at Sidney Sussex College for an amazing day!

Hair and make-Up – Ieva Genovesi

Flowers – Clare Kenward Flowers

DJ – Supreme Discos

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