Gabby & Joe’s wedding at Reading Town Hall
If I could sum up Gabby and Joe’s day in three words, I’d say boots, bows and…the Beatles! But more on that later! As a Reading Town Hall wedding photographer, I was so excited to capture their unique and intimate day.
Their wedding day, their way
Gabby and Joe’s day didn’t follow traditional norms. They got ready together, opted for a small wedding party with only their closest family members and stayed true to their personal style. Instead of a heels and a veil, Gabby opted for boots and a bow – and I’m so here for it! Gabby was the epitome of cool! The relaxed bride got ready with the help of her mother and grandmother – there really is something special about seeing generations come together at milestone occasions like this. Gabby even chose to swap necklaces with her grandmother – a touching gesture.
The couple got ready at Church House in Berkshire. Originally built in 1850, the old church has been converted into a modern, spacious Airbnb. It was the perfect setting for their morning preparations, and then their relaxed post-ceremony reception.
An intimate wedding ceremony at Reading Town Hall
Once they were both ready, Gabby and Joe did a first look in the ground of Church House. A first look is when the couple break with the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony. Instead, they do a private reveal and spend a few precious, intimate moments together before saying their ‘I Dos’. First looks have been widespread in the USA for many years, but we’re gradually seeing them gain popularity in the UK too.
After this, they headed to Reading Town Hall where they were married in the presence of their closest family members. The couple had chosen to make their day a more intimate affair, but that certainly didn’t mean that it was any less special.
A Beatles kind of vibe!
After the vows were exchanged, we then got to have some fun around Reading town centre! And that’s where the Beatles comes in to this tale! We waited at the zebra crossing for a break in the traffic and took our chance to recreate that iconic album cover – and don’t Gabby and Joe look every bit the rockstars?! gabby and Joe were so keen on having fun, relaxed portraits – I think we nailed it!
Winning the wedding weather lottery
In true British springtime style, the week leading up to Gabby and Joe’s wedding saw almost every type of weather – sunshine, showers, thunderstorms and hail all included! On the big day though the couple won the weather lottery with blue skies and warm sunshine. A forecast many couples dream of!
As a wedding photographer, I tend to say a discreet farewell to the bride and groom and head on my way. This time though, I was just more than a little touched when Gabby’s mum and grandmother both gave me a big hug before I left. I was so honoured that they’d felt that connection with me – because I’d felt the same way. Being someone’s wedding photographer is such a privilege; I get to see the most intimate moments of perhaps the biggest day of your life. By the end of our time together I’m lucky enough to class most couples as friends.
Gabby and Joe’s day went by in a flash and I was genuinely sad to leave – it was a really special day.
I wish Gabby and Joe all the best for an amazing life together, you really do deserve it.
Love Chloë
With thanks to the Roseate Hotel (@roseatereading) for facilitating confetti and portraits on the steps of the hotel.
Looking for more Reading Town Hall weddings? See Anna & Sam’s big day
As a Reading Town Hall wedding photographer, I specialise in capturing relaxed, modern imagery that you’ll love forever. Visit the gallery to see more of my work.
