Amy and Kevin wanted an intimate handfasting ceremony in the ruins of Sheriff Hutton Castle Yorkshire. A 14th century castle which offers both intimate and guest attended ceremony and celebration space. A great venue with its historical buildings and greenery and the second time I have photographed a ceremony here in 2024.
Amy looked beautiful in her lace dress paired with floral DMs and tiara. Kevin wore a purple shirt and purple socks with a dog motif to honour their dog Odie who was being looked after by his Grandparents. Amy and Kevin are also experienced Hedgehog parents.
Celtic Goddess Brigid was honoured with an altar set up and offerings given in the barn. Lit by many candles and one wall covered in a fairy light curtain, it was a pretty and relaxed space. A private and at times emotional ceremony with only Amy, Kevin, Ellie and me present to witness and hear it. Their marriage ceremony a few years before had been well attended and after some testing times they wanted to have a Pagan and ‘Amy and Kevin’ centred ceremony with only the two of them.
Their Pagan handfasting ceremony was created and led by Ellie from Alternative Ceremonies UK (Mrs Rob). Kevin and Amy exchanged vows, read personal words, jumped the broom and drank mead in celebration of their handfasting with a red, white and green braided cord.
The sun came out and although it was October, the higher temperatures made it feel more like late spring.
After their ceremony they celebrated with champagne, and I took full advantage of the beautiful scenery and bright sky to capture them in a series of celebratory yet natural poses. No group line ups, just two people caught up in the moment, celebrating their special day together.
Thank you Kevin and Amy for asking me to capture and document your intimate handfasting ceremony.
