Lauderdale House London
Weddings are like snowflakes—no two are the same, and there’s always a chance for a little chaos. When I had the pleasure of photographing Odile and Stefan’s wedding at Lauderdale House in London, I knew I was in for a delightful ride. If you’re a couple planning a non-traditional wedding, take notes—this one was a masterclass in quirky love!
London Wedding Photographer
How exciting! It was a pleasure to work with you, and the previews were wonderful, so I can’t wait to see the complete gallery! Thank you, Sarah!
The pictures are beautiful!! We love looking at them. We can not thank you enough.
Odile & Stefan
Lauderdale House is a hidden gem that mixes charming gardens with a splash of history. It is nestled in the lovely Waterlow Park in Highgate, North London. It boasts stunning views of both the park and the city skyline! Initially built in the 16th century and remodelled in the 17th, this charming house has quite a story. Over the years, it has been a private home, a beloved community centre, and now a vibrant venue for arts and cultural events, like art exhibitions, music concerts, and various community activities. It is a lively spot to visit.
The Wedding Day At Lauderdale House
The moment I arrived, I was hit with a kaleidoscope of colours being arranged by the fantastic florist. Forget the all-the-same-on-white florals. Odile and Stefan’s stunning, vibrant decor was like stepping into a pastel rainbow—complete with mismatched tableware and wildflower arrangements that would make a bee swoon.
I wandered through the picturesque grounds early in the morning as I did my venue checks. I was immediately taken by the lush greenery and the historic architecture. I found a little enchanted nook, knowing this would be a perfect spot to whisk Odile and Stefan away for their portraits.
Morning Prep And Wedding Ceremony
Odile is truly a girl after my own heart, especially when she whipped out her “Friends: The One Where I’m the Bride” mug—because who wouldn’t want to channel a little sitcom magic on their big day? As Odile was getting ready at a nearby Airbnb, the excitement was palpable—until one of her dress straps decided to make a dramatic exit! Suddenly, we were all hands on deck, armed with safety pins and a “make it work” attitude—knives were metaphorically and out-out, and we were ready to save the day!
Once we arrived at Lauderdale House, I found the boys looking dapper and attempting to keep their cool, which, let’s be honest, was a bit of a challenge. But as the stunning ceremony unfolded in the Long Gallery, all the pre-wedding antics faded away. The beautiful space, filled with laughter and love, set the perfect stage for Odile and Stefan’s vows, reminding us all that nothing could overshadow the magic of their day!
Confetti Moments And Hug Fest
After the “I do’s,” it was time for fun! We mingled in the creative spaces around Lauderdale House, capturing the couple in all their glory; the confetti tunnel gave you goose pimples and Odile and Stefan were covered in confetti. After the confetti, along came the hug fest. I love this part of the day. All your loved ones throwing their arms around you and showering you with congratulations is gorgeous. And I can guarantee that the veil will be stood on!!
Wedding Day Reception
When it came time for the group photos, I felt like I was directing a lively United Nations meeting! With guests flying in from all corners of the globe—Peru, France, and even the good ol’ US of A—there was a delightful mix of cultures and accents that made for some hilarious moments. Picture this: Stefan, proudly repping Peru, trying to teach his French bride, Odile, how to strike the perfect pose while their guests, a colorful medley of laughter and love, attempted to outdo each other with their best “cheese” faces. As they settled in for the wedding breakfast, the table was a feast of flavours from around the world and the speeches? Oh boy! Between Odile’s family’s heartfelt anecdotes and Stefan’s friends sharing tales of their university shenanigans, there was more laughter than tears—though I suspect that was partly due to the wine flowing as freely as the love in the room!
Wedding Portraits At Lauderdale House
Amidst the mingling guests enjoying the beautiful grounds of Lauderdale House, we whisked away for a quick 10-minute portrait session—because let’s be real, every bride & groom wants be be papped on their wedding day. As a wedding photographer in London, I know just how important those stunning portraits are. We dashed off to find that charming little nook I had spotted earlier, who knew capturing those perfect moments at Lauderdale House would be so much fun.
Odile Wanted To Recreat A Moment
Odile had a fun request that truly brought a smile to my face—she wanted to recreate a photograph from her childhood where she wore a wedding dress and kicked her leg in sheer delight. Excitedly, she shared how important it was to have this new memory alongside that adorable snapshot from when she was a little girl. So there we were, in her stunning gown, capturing that same playful spirit as she kicked her leg high with a big laugh, proving that no matter how much time passes, some moments of joy never get old! Oh, and we threw in a few arty images for good measure.
Wedding Party & Evening Direct Flash Portraits
Now, these guys could party, and their moves were on fire when the bass dropped. The crowd ignited—fierce, unapologetic, and wild. And I knew Odile wanted some evening portraits, so the flash hits – direct, and the magic unfolds – bright, bold, and beautifully unrefined. Capturing raw moments that pulse with life, where every click is a vibe and every frame is a memory in the making.
And Finally
Odile and Stefan’s wedding at Lauderdale House was a beautiful reminder that love doesn’t have to fit into a traditional mould. Their commitment to creativity and fun shone brightly, making their day an unforgettable experience not just for them but for everyone lucky enough to be a part of it. If you’re a couple seeking to celebrate your love in a way that reflects your unique personalities, take a cue from Odile and Stefa, let your love shine, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are getting married at Lauderdale House in London and still looking for a photographer and think I would be a good fit, please contact me below. I would love to hear from you, as I loved shooting at Lauderdale House.
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