Sopley Mill | New Forest Wedding
Lauren and Kyle
Lauren and Kyle tied the knot at the beautiful Sopley Mill, and I was especially excited to shoot there for the first time! Their day was a stunning mix of elegance, alternative flair, and a shared love for all things avian.
Lauren looked every bit the elven princess in a sleek satin gown, her hair styled in a fishtail plait that perfectly framed by her tiara. True to her alternative style, she paired her look with Doc Martens and carried a bouquet bursting with warm orange tones, dried flowers, feathers, and roses – a nod to the couple’s shared love of birds (something I first learned during their engagement shoot). Even their rings were housed in a tiny coffin-shaped box! Gothic perfection!
Kyle brought just as much style, rocking a sharp brown wool suit and pigeon-shaped cufflinks to keep the bird theme going strong.
The ceremony took place outside under perfect sunny skies, and it was full of magical touches, including a barn owl delivering the rings! After a sweet first look with her dad, Lauren made her way down the aisle, and soon the couple were exchanging vows surrounded by family, friends, and feathers.
Guests were treated to a full bird-of-prey show, with plenty of hands-on time holding some majestic birds. Inside the Mill, the décor leaned into their bird obsession beautifully, from themed table settings to bird pictures on the cakes. A surprise performance from a singing waiter had the entire room on their feet and dancing during dinner!
After heartfelt speeches and a golden hour portrait session around the fields, guests were treated to delicious evening food from Piecaramba. The night ended on a high note with an epic Star Wars-inspired first dance – yep, with light sabers and all!
A joyful, wildly personal day for a couple who truly made it their own.
Venue | Sopley Mill
Bridal gown | Julia’s House
Bridesmaids/men | Suits Direct // Wed2B
HMUA | Bridal and Beauty by Rebecca Jane
Flowers | Simply Flower
Cake | Auntie Jenny!
Musicians | Chris Biddle
Birds of prey | Apollo Falconry
Nails | Black Canvas
Second shooter | Dayle DMH Photos
