When Sophie and Andrew got in touch to ask me to photograph their wedding at the stylish West Reservoir Centre, I was super excited. I’m a big fan of interesting architecture and the industrial chic feel of this wedding venue is right up my street. It’s a very unique venue with a large open plan space that is flooded by natural light. The original hydraulic machinery is still around, which adds lots of character. And the outdoor terraces offer stunning views of the water. Living in North London, I have walked past the West Reservoir Centre many times on my way to take my little boy to Clissold Park for a run around. It’s always nice to shoot somewhere local.
Andrew and Sophie met when Sophie took her bike to be repaired and was served by Andrew in the bike shop. They got engaged in Paris last year and decided to tie the knot with a relaxed and fun celebration in North London.
Sohpie got ready in a funky Air BnB flat in Stoke Newington, just around the corner form the West Reservoir Centre. A close friend did Sophie’s make-up. And pretty much her whole family was there – Sophie is one of five children . There were lots of special and fun moments for me to photograph.
The ceremony was held at Hackney Town Hall. Sophie’s Auntie who is a registrar in Norfolk performed the ceremony, which made it wonderful and personal. Sophie and Andrew switched between giggles and happy tears, and looked overjoyed to be married.
After the ceremony, we all traveled to Stoke Newington to admire the wonderfully decorated West Reservoir Centre. Pink pompoms decorated the high ceilings and there were personal touches throughout the stunning open plan space. Andrew is originally from South Africa. Sophie and Andrew made sure to incorporate this heritage in the decorations. They included the national flower of South Africa – the Protea – in the bridal bouquet and in the flowers that decorated the tables. Andrew’s brother is a potter. He made the plant pots for the table centre pieces himself and brought them with him all the way from South Africa.
Sophie and Andrew kept things informal with a hog roast followed a ceilidh, which got everyone on their feet and dancing. The whole day was such fun to photograph, with a wonderful and warm atmosphere accompanying all the celebrations.
If you like this unusual London wedding venue, take a look at Nicola and Lloyd’s wedding who got married at Snap Studios, a photo studio in East London.
