A Two Bridges Hotel Wedding: Nerissa and Brian's Spring Day on Dartmoor

When Nerissa and Brian started looking for a wedding venue, they knew they wanted to be surrounded by the wild beauty of Dartmoor. As soon as they saw the Two Bridges Hotel, they fell in love with it.

They’d chosen a spring wedding and wanted a photographer who’d capture the day naturally. They liked my relaxed style, got in touch, and we met up to get to know each other and talk through their plans.

Arriving on Dartmoor

The drive across Dartmoor to the venue is beautiful in any weather, and on the morning of the wedding, there were heavy clouds and the smell of rain in the air.

I arrived early to soak up the atmosphere, explore the hotel, photograph the final preparations and meet Anna, the hotel’s brilliant wedding coordinator. Then it was time to meet Nerissa and Brian and begin their day.

A Homemade Wedding

Nerissa and Brian’s personal touches were everywhere. They spent an evening making their own wedding favours – delicious homemade fudge.

Brian also turned out to be a very talented baker. He made the wedding cakes himself: a lemon drizzle, a walnut cake and a chocolate cake, plus a vegan and gluten-free cake so every guest could join in. Move over, Paul Hollywood.

Beating the Rain

Despite the dark clouds, the rain held off just long enough. We headed outside for the confetti and group photos while we could.

I always ask couples for a list of group photos with names beforehand. It means we can work through them quickly – especially handy when guests are keeping one eye on the sky.

As the wedding breakfast began, the heavens finally opened, but by then we had every outdoor photo we needed.

Games, Gifts and Dancing

During dinner, the children started a game of “pass it on”, whispering messages around the tables. Watching the reactions as each message arrived at the end was a joy, and it kept everyone entertained between courses.

Brian had a surprise for Nerissa too: a personalised kitchen apron with their wedding date on it, a sweet nod to all that baking.

The best men took charge of the music in the evening. The guests formed a circle, Brian had a dance-off with one of his best men, and then Nerissa joined him. The night ended with everyone dancing to Zorba’s Dance – a perfect finale.

Photographing Nerissa and Brian’s day on Dartmoor was a delight. Editing their photos and writing this has brought it all back.

Suppliers

• Venue: Two Bridges Hotel
• Flowers: M&D Flowers
• Hair and make-up: Arena Creative Hair
• Decorations: Decorations and Celebrations
• Photography: Mike Lister Photography

Planning a Dartmoor Wedding?

Dartmoor’s weather keeps you on your toes, and I know how to make the most of it. Have a look at my Devon wedding photography or get in touch.