Elliott Mariess | Photography

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A Sark Wedding: Capturing Victoria and Adam’s Big Day - wedding photography guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Weddings on the island of Sark have their own unique charm, and Victoria and Adam’s celebration was no exception. From the early morning rain that threatened to throw off the day’s plans to the stunning sunset photos at La Coupee, it was a day full of memorable moments.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

A Stormy Start and a Bright Turnaround

The day began with a bit of unexpected drama. As I made my way downstairs at the hotel, I found the ground floor completely flooded from an early morning downpour. One of the staff members was valiantly bucketing out water from the front door, a scene that had me briefly worried about how the day would unfold. Fortunately, the weather cleared up quickly, and we were blessed with beautiful light for the rest of the day—perfect for capturing those special moments.

Despite the chaotic start, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a strong focus on family. Kids were everywhere, and the large bridal and groom parties were full of energy, making sure everyone had a part to play in the day’s events.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Getting Ready: Pre-Ceremony Prep

The pre-ceremony prep took place at two different locations: Adam and his groomsmen at La Moinerie Village, and Victoria with her bridesmaids at La Grange. La Grange had a cozy, homely vibe, perfect for capturing the intimate moments of the morning. The lighting indoors was a bit tricky, so we relied on natural light as much as possible, turning off some of the indoor lights to avoid harsh shadows. The atmosphere was a mix of excitement and calm as everyone got ready.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Alphie’s Last Ride: The Ceremony at Gusty’s Field

Victoria and Adam’s carriage ride to Gusty’s Field for the ceremony was a small highlight of the day. Alphie, the horse who pulled the carriage, was making his final appearance at a wedding before being retired, adding a touch of nostalgia to the journey. The ride to the field was scenic, with plenty of spots that caught my photographer’s eye for future shoots. Gusty’s Field, true to its name, was a bit windy, but it provided a fantastic view over Guernsey, creating a stunning backdrop for the ceremony. Anette Henry conducted a beautiful service, and the relaxed, outdoor setting made for some genuinely heartfelt moments.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

A Laid-Back Reception

After the ceremony, the reception at La Moinerie Village kept the family-oriented vibe going. It was a chilled-out affair, with group photos, garden games, and even a rope swing that kept the kids entertained. There were plenty of candid moments as guests enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, and a few rounds of Fireball shots added a bit of extra energy to the afternoon.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Sunset at La Coupee: The Couple Shoot

As the day moved toward evening, we took a tractor ride out to La Coupee for the couple shoot. Sark’s landscapes never disappoint, and La Coupee provided a dramatic setting as the sun began to set. We brought along a chair from the reception as a prop, and despite the strong winds, Victoria and Adam were up for anything. The result was a series of stunning, windswept photos that captured the wild beauty of the island and the couple’s adventurous spirit.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Evening Celebrations: Dancing the Night Away

Back at La Moinerie Village, the evening guests began to arrive, and the party continued with Victoria and Adam’s first dance. The band, Episode2, did a great job of getting everyone on the dance floor, keeping the energy high as the night went on. The evening was a perfect blend of fun and relaxation, with everyone enjoying the music and the company.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Wedding photography Guernsey

Reflections from Sark

Photographing Victoria and Adam’s wedding was a reminder of the importance of being prepared for anything, especially when working in a unique location like Sark. From dealing with unexpected weather to making sure all the little details were in place, it was a day that required flexibility and creativity.

In the end, the island’s charm and the couple’s laid-back approach made for a truly special day. While it’s hard to pick a favorite photo, the moments captured at La Coupee, with the wind and sunset adding to the drama, are ones that stand out.

This wedding was a beautiful example of how the right location, a bit of island magic, and a focus on family and friends can come together to create a day that’s as memorable as it is unique.

Wedding photography Guernsey

Huge thanks to all the suppliers who made it happen

Makeup and hair @diamondontheisland

Venue @thesarkestate

Confetti @flutterdarlings

Celebrant @annette_henry_celebrant

Tents and decor @bonita_events

Music @episode___2

Video @liamjtodd