Rachel and Jason wanted a pagan wedding ceremony with just the two of them, well actually there was four of them as Rachel is pregnant with identical twin girls. Including their unborn daughters within the ceremony was really important to them, and Ellie came up with a truly personalised ceremony involving a sand collection which will be used during the girls naming ceremony at a later date, a mead ceremony, the handfasting, and a pledging ceremony were also included.
Pagan and Viking beliefs
Jason and Rachel have a unique style based on Pagan and Viking beliefs. Jason’s beard and his outfit got attention as we walked through the town to the pier for some pre ceremony shots. Rachel’s outfit complemented Jason’s and showed off her baby bump which made for some great memorable images.
The ceremony was held by rocks which helped create some atmospheric shots for the couple. It was a great day and a very moving ceremony with just the bride and groom present. A few onlookers wished them well and the sun was shining.
Wedding photos at Whitby Abbey
After their ceremony they wanted some photos taken at the iconic Whitby Abbey, a place favoured by Gothic couples due to the beautiful ruins and amazing scenery and views of the coast surrounding the cliffs where it is situated.
Intimate weddings and handfasting ceremonies are some of my favourite moments to capture as couples are totally relaxed and this shows on the images.
Handfasting, Pagan and Gothic Ceremonies
Whitby is a popular destination for alternative weddings, and it is always exciting for me as a photographer when alternative couples ask me to photograph their special day.
My wife Ellie is an alternative Celebrant who specialises in handfasting, Pagan, Gothic and many other alternative ceremonies. We were both contacted by Jason and Rachel to be involved in their intimate Pagan handfasting ceremony on a beach in Whitby in the late summer.