As a Dorset based photographer I am always so spoilt for choice with locations for photoshoots. Exploring the Jurassic Coast with Hope & Ben during their pre-wedding photoshoot not only resulted in some stunning golden hour photos, but also a wonderful summer’s evening out.
Engagement photoshoots are more than just a way to practise being in front of the camera before your wedding day and receive a beautiful selection photos for your save the dates. They are a time to connect, to slow down, focus on each other, love each other, share words of appreciation, create a new memory and most of all, have fun together! I first met Hope & Ben in 2019 when they booked me to photograph their wedding day in Weymouth. Due to Covid, their original plans had to change, however this resulted in two beautiful wedding days one in 2020, the other in 2021 and this gorgeous sunset couples shoot at Durdle Door.
How did you meet?
We met in 2016 doing an internship at Trinity Life Church in Leicester. Hope had just finished her A-levels and moved up from Dorset and Ben had just moved back to Leicester after the end of a rugby contract in London. We often joke that if we’d met at any other time than this it’s highly unlikely we’d be together – we’re completely different! Ben loves all things sport and exercise, whilst more often than not you can find Hope at home with a hot chocolate, blanket and a craft. It’s our love for Jesus that united us, well, that and a love for animated kids films haha.
Our entire relationship up until our marriage was long distance. The first 7 months were spent on opposite sides of the world when Ben moved to Australia, and from then we continued to be in different places through university. We now live in a beautiful home on the edge of Leicester and have found so much joy this year in no longer having to say goodbye!
What are your favourite things to do together?
We love to cook together, going for walks in the fields near our home, and watching Grey’s Anatomy!
Describe your proposal?
I spoiled Ben’s proposal plans twice before he asked the question! He wanted to propose at Durdle Door, but when we planned to visit I said no, fearful of the steep walk down due to a recent surgery Ben had had. Instead we went to Lulworth Cove in July 2019 on a beautifully sunny day, I then refused to climb onto the edge of a cliff (which had the perfect view!) so at this point Ben dropped to one knee and asked me there and then. Ben’s proposal was followed by a picnic with pink prosecco and many, many photos to capture the moment.
ARE YOU NEWLEY ENGAGED OR PLANNING YOUR DORSET WEDDING?
If you’ve just popped the question and would love some engagement photos to celebrate or you’re planning your perfect Dorset wedding day, then feel free to get in touch or see more of my work over on my portfolio. I’d love to get to know you and hear all about your wedding plans so far!
