Jacksons Lane Wedding Photography

The morning started at Angelo’s parents house. Angelo’s sister took on the role of Koumbaro (similar to a best man) and she shaved him and finished buttoning up his shirt while a violinist played. Then various members of Angelo’s family perform the Stolisma, where a red scarf is tied around the Groom’s waist to symbolise fertility and then the Kapnistiri smoke blessing. Traditional Greek food and a good few shots of vodka were passed around as everyone relaxed.

Not being Greek Sorrel had a much more informal morning at home where she got ready with her Bridesmaids and parents. When I arrived she was drinking alcohol from a gravy boat (why not?) and was completely at ease. I tend to find the brides who book me are the laid back kind, I think it goes hand in hand with not wanting a photographer who will fuss for staged shots or make everything ‘just so’. They want me to be as laid back as they are. I spent an hour there before heading over to The Greek Cathedral in Golders Green for the ceremony.

It was a nice change for me to photograph a Greek ceremony, but I had to be on my toes. There are more traditional moments in a Greek ceremony than in an English church wedding. Ring blessing, candle lighting, sips from the common cup, stefana crowns and the walk around the altar certainly keep the couple, the bridal party and their photographer busy!

After the ceremony and some drinks in the church grounds we headed over to Jackson Lane for the remainder of the day.

UNIQUE RECEPTION VENUE AT JACKSONS LANE

Jacksons Lane has been a creative and cultural hub for North London for 40 years. A former Methodist church, Jackson’s Lane is now a Grade II listed building. With its Gothic architecture it’s certainly a striking sight on the A1 heading into London city centre. The largest of the 6 spaces you can hire out is Studio 1. With high vaulted ceilings and original church windows, it’s a dramatic setting immediately creating an extraordinary atmosphere. A wedding at Jackson Lane is certainly a unique experience.

Traditional Greek music played as guests gathered before the wedding breakfast. Speeches followed shortly after the food and there were plenty of laughs and tears. Sorrel also gave a speech, just the 2nd Bride I’ve had get up for one this year. I love it when a bride gets up, it really adds a different element into the speeches.

The evening kicked off with some Greek dancing before the night finished with a more modern feel from a pre-made Spotify playlist as the happy couple and their guests partied away into the evening.