Claire & Mark's Beachfront Wedding

Authentic, relaxed wedding photography

Hey everyone! It's been a while since I last posted, and what better way to break the silence than by sharing the beautiful wedding of Claire & Mark? This celebration truly embodied everything I try to represent as The Secret Wedding Photographer; authenticity, relaxed vibes, friendship and love.

Thames Estuary

Set against the backdrop of a serene Thames Estuary on the most beautiful spring day, Claire and Mark's wedding was as warm and welcoming as the day I met them at the Old Town in Leigh-on-Sea.

The Roslin Beach Hotel

From first impressions, it was clear this was a special couple who knew and loved one another’s quirks and totally had each other’s backs. The fact that we chatted over drinks and shared a few funny stories may have helped, but I knew straight away that their wedding would be right up my street. Friends and family were hugely important but mostly, both just wanted to make it official and start the rest of their lives together with a warm and joyful celebration.

I arrived at The Roslin Beach Hotel as the tide was making its way in. The sun was shining on the bridal balcony overlooking the promenade and palms and I felt lucky to have such beautiful venues close to home.

I was welcomed to the bridal suite with a huge hug and I was absolutely blown away by not only Claire’s fabulous style choices but by her thoughtful and calm approach in pretty huge circumstances. Claire and the rest of the bridal were relaxed and enjoying every minute surrounded by a wonderful team of incredibly talented professionals.

The most flawless, porcelain skin by Jessica Cant and last minute fringe (!) and stunning up-do by Rachel . Claire’s stunning bespoke wedding gown by The Dressmaker was hand-delivered by the designer herself who stayed to dress Claire for the ceremony. It couldn’t have gone more smoothly but had there been any issues, Claire’s mum Jen, was on hand with a magical Mary Poppins-esque  bag unlike anything I have ever seen! She had any and everything that might be required from snacks, to spare toothbrushes. She had also pulled out of the bag the most beautiful veil, previously worn by Claire’s Grandmother on her wedding day which The Dressmaker lovingly combined with a longer veil. Butterfly inspired flats by Sophia Webster and the most beautiful, cascading bouquet from Fiori, Leigh-on-Sea, were the perfect finishing touches and I think you will agree, Claire was simply stunning.

Meanwhile, I had already learned that Mark was a little more reserved and hopefully I achieved the balance required as a photographer to make him feel comfortable and supported in a situation where all eyes were on him. I observed from a distance as he greeted guests and did a great job of looking calm, composed and incredibly dapper in bow tie and velvet blazer.

The Bay Room, Roslin Beach Hotel

As soon as Claire began her walk down the aisle, arm in arm with her parents, it was obvious for all that Mark was complete with Claire in the same room. No one else mattered or even existed and I had the very easy job of documenting the care and attention that both gave to their vows and each other. As a photographer who loves natural interactions and genuine emotions, I felt incredibly lucky to be a part of their journey.

It was an absolute pleasure to see Mark and Claire surrounded by beaming guests as they were first greeted as Mrs & Mrs. This is a favourite time for me as my photography style is all about unobtrusive observation, letting the couple and their guests fully enjoy the experience. This results in images that are hopefully more than just pictures—they're memories that capture the true essence of the day with the people who mean the most.

Throughout the day, I was welcomed not just as a photographer but as a friend. Claire, Mark, and their guests checked on me regularly, making sure I was comfortable and had everything I needed. This genuine care and connection made the experience all the more special.

After a little time (almost) alone on the beach – I was there to capture the moment as they reflected on forever together – bride and groom returned to their guests with a little sand in their shoes and in serious need of food and hydration.

A fabulous meal, heartfelt speeches and a quick freshen up later, guests were straight onto the dance floor for the evening reception. It was shaping up to be a great night and I was sad to be leaving the party but not until after a sweet and unassuming cake cutting and first dance as the sun went down over the Estuary and the disco lights came on in the Bay Room . It was beautiful to see Claire and Mark completely relaxed with friends and finally let their hair down as Mr & Mrs.

Claire and Mark's wedding is a perfect reminder of why I do what I do. For me it is about more than just taking photos; it's about telling a story, celebrating love, and preserving the moments that make life so special. I'm so honoured to have been a part of their day.

Thanks for letting me share this beautiful love story with you. Stay tuned for more tales of romance and joy as I continue to capture the magic of weddings across Essex and this year, a little further afield…

Much love,

The Secret Wedding Photographer x