Toby & Jemma’s Rustic Wedding at The Old Mill

 Last August I had the absolute pleasure of photographing two of my oldest friends’ wedding at The Old Mill in Aldermaston. I’ve known Toby and Jemma since we were at school together. They’re childhood sweethearts and their wedding was an absolute joy to be a part of. 

I arrived in the morning to meet Toby as he set everything up. I left him in Josh, my second shooter’s capable hands and went to go and check in on the girls. For bridal prep, it was all surprisingly…calm. Jemma was sat in The Old Mill’s bridal room, just happily getting her make-up touched up by Courteney Bell. 

Jemma’s dress was a stunning ballgown from Wed2B, the total opposite of the style she’d thought she’d come away with. It just goes to show – try on ALL the dresses when you’re looking. She also had flowers in her hair and a gorgeous bouquet from Lily and Liz. The girls all got into their bridesmaid’s dresses, while the boys were now in their suits, having their photos taken downstairs. Toby’s suit was from Black Tie.

Gorgeous rustic decor in The Old Mill’s glasshouse

Leafy green vines and ivory flowers decorated the venue downstairs. They had a fairy light backdrop to their top table and beautiful centre pieces made from log slices, leaves, flowers and candles. 

The ceremony was super emotional (turns out it’s hard to take photos while crying). They were finally married, after more than 10 years together. We wrangled everyone outside for the confetti walk, but shortly after, the heavens decided to open for the group shots, which was super handy…not. After quick intervals of ducking inside and outside, we nailed the group shots and everyone head inside for dinner.

Once dinner was over, we had the speeches. And once again, things got emotional. I’m really glad Josh was second shooting for me. Because it was HARD to shoot through the tears. Once the speeches were over, the four of us set off outside for a little adventure.

The Old Mill has absolutely gorgeous grounds, with its riverside views and gardens. This wasn’t the first time I’ve had Toby and Jemma in front of my camera. The photography package they chose included an engagement shoot. This way they could have a practice before the big day. The Old Mill really is a perfect place for a photographer. There are so many little golden spots. A favourite of mine was the greenhouse. If anyone knows me, they’ll know I love some artistic symmetry.

An emotional and romantic day for childhood sweethearts

The evening was getting on now, and the evening reception was about to start. Starting with the cake. It was semi-naked, with three tiers and decorated with flowers and a personalised cake topper. A beautifully rustic number. They cut the cake, and then smooshed it into each-other’s faces, before making their way to the dance floor. They danced, spun and finished with a good old-fashioned dip. 

It was at this point, that my true multi-tasking skills came into play. Taking photos and dancing. If you can’t dance with your oldest friends on their wedding day, when can you? Not long after, I packed up and left them to their night.

“Jodie was absolutely amazing. She photographed our engagement and wedding. We could not have asked for a better wedding photographer, she made us feel as ease and somehow made us feel comfortable in front of the camera (which is not an easy thing to do). The photos she provided captured everything and more than we ever hoped. We would thoroughly recommend her to anyone in the future. We are eternally grateful for everything. Thank you so much Jodie.” Toby and Jemma

If you’re getting married at The Old Mill in Aldermaston (or anywhere else for that matter), and you’d like me to photograph your wedding, then enquire here, or have a closer look at my wedding photography packages! I was also lucky enough to have this wedding featured over on Magpie Weddings, which you can check out here.