Unexpected Morris Dancers at a Wedding
What stunning wedding celebrations to be the photographer at for Michelle and Andy’s wedding at The George in Rye, East Sussex. For one thing, it’s a great hotel venue in a wonderfully charming town in East Sussex. The guests were also happy and fun loving, and the light was great. But it was the unscheduled encounter with the East Surrey Morris Men that made the photography pretty unique. My first time encountering Morris Dancers at a wedding!
Wedding Preparations at The George in Rye
The day began with Michelle’s preparation at the hotel with her bridesmaids. Andy was also getting ready at the hotel, so I was able to photograph both sides preparing for the ceremony. They had also invited their guests to bake a selection of wedding cakes which were being arranged for judging later in the day.
Town Crier Leads the Celebration
The ceremony took place a short walk up the hill from The George at the Town Hall. Rye’s town crier welcomed the wedding party, and announced Michelle as she arrived. After the ceremony, guests made their way back to the hotel for some well needed refreshments, while the bridal party headed back up towards the Town Hall for a quick set of group pictures.
“Brighton Camp”
As we approached the Town Hall, we saw a fair sized crowd enjoying some dancing in the sunshine by the East Surrey Morris Men. They got pretty excited when they saw the newly weds, and The Fool wasted no time in asking whether Michelle would like to join them in a dance. There’s a particular dance called “Brighton Camp”. As the dance draws to an end, the most beautiful member of the audience is lifted into the air by the whole group. Traditionally each of the Morris Men then kiss the bride to bless her with happiness and good luck. Thankfully, Michelle and Andy were thrilled to be part of the quirky dance, and much luck was wished their way!
With the group pictures and portraits finished, the party continued back at The George. The Bake Off was judged after the wedding breakfast with the winning cakes being served to the guests. My coverage drew to an end shortly after the first dance, as the celebrations continued.
If you like this style of natural wedding photography, please get in touch if you’re interested in commissioning me to be your wedding photographer at The George in Rye, or anywhere else for that matter! Check out some Lainston House wedding photography, or perhaps this Horsted Place wedding.
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