F & J // Cliff at Lyons

“Claire, I love them! Clicking through them I realized Ive been clicking "favorite" on pretty much all of them :) They really bring us back to the day and its really special for my family to have them! THANK YOU”

This beautiful day at Cliff at Lyons was a joy! I love this venue so much - the grounds are stunning, featuring ivy clad stone buildings; you feel like you’ve been transported to the south of France. It was an October wedding, so even though the flowers had disappeared, the leaves were turning burnt orange and red, and there was still so much green everywhere. The wonderful Niamh Smith, of the Photography Hub was on hand as second shooter for the day, always a pleasure to have her by my side.

Fionnuala and Jack met and live in San Francisco, she’s Irish, he’s American. When they first met, they spent the first few weeks exploring the Bay Area with Jack showing Fionnuala all the best places in San Francisco. She’s an architect, and fabulously talented artist, while he’s an attorney. I was delighted to be asked to capture their day at this gorgeous country estate.

Fionnuala opted for a stunning Calla Blanche dress and Jimmy Choo shoes, while the beautiful flowers were provided by Ab Fab Flowers. Their ceremony was beautiful and emotional. There was laughter and tears throughout and it was extra special having Fionnuala’s Dad play some of the music on the accordion for a few songs too. The bridal party were great fun and up for a laugh, which always makes my job easier! Fionnuala & Jack were an absolute pleasure to photograph, so easy going, fun and affectionate and very much in love, which really comes across in their photos.

Co-ordinating your bridesmaids dresses to the colour of the leaves ;)

I knew this day would be special when I first spoke to Fionnuala. The atmosphere on the day was relaxed and the speeches were heartfelt and personal. It was a particularly special moment for Fionnuala’s family when her brother joined in on the dance floor after the first dance. He had become sick 10 years ago and this was his first time back on the dance floor, so needless to say, it was a joyful and emotional moment. Moments like this are so humbling and always make me appreciate how wonderful it is to be invited in to document such a meaningful occasion.