top of page
Search

Bridport Dorset Wedding Photographer: Tom and Hannah's Laid-Back Cinematic Wedding

  • Sep 14, 2023
  • 3 min read

Updated: Apr 1

If you're looking for a Bridport, Dorset wedding photographer, I hope Tom and Hannah's day gives you a feel for how I work. This was one of those weddings that had personality written all over it. From the cinema stage ceremony to the vintage train carriage reception and golden hour on the beach at West Bay. No two moments were the same, and I loved every second of it.


When the sun-drenched month of June arrives, it's the perfect time for a seaside wedding. This particular summer day was scorching hot, and as luck would have it, I was combining work and vacation, staying at a nearby holiday park in Lyme Regis. I was thrilled to be part of Tom and Hannah's special day, a couple whose wedding perfectly embodied the laid-back and fun spirit of the Dorset coast.


Bride laughing while her hair is styled at the West Bay Hotel, Bridport, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

Wedding dress hanging in the window at the West Bay Hotel, Bridport, Dorset, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

Bride's white jewelled wedding sandals laid on a patterned carpet at the West Bay Hotel, Bridport, Dorset

Bridal party laughing and relaxing together during morning preparations at the West Bay Hotel, Bridport, Dorset

Bride in her wedding dress laughing with arms outstretched during bridal prep at the West Bay Hotel, Bridport, Dorset

Close-up of a bridesmaid painting the bride's nails during bridal prep at the West Bay Hotel, Bridport, Dorset


A Cinematic Beginning

The unique charm of this wedding began with the choice of venue – The Electric Palace Cinema in Bridport. Tom and Hannah decided to tie the knot on the cinema stage, with their loved ones seated comfortably in the audience area. It was a fitting start to their love story, an intimate setting that allowed them to share their vows in front of family and friends.


Guests arriving at the Electric Palace Cinema in Bridport, Dorset for a wedding ceremony, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

Groom in a cream linen suit laughing with guests in the foyer of the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, Dorset

Reserved cinema seats with handwritten name cards for the wedding ceremony at the Electric Palace, Bridport, Dorset

Bride and groom exchanging vows on stage at the Electric Palace Cinema in Bridport, Dorset

Bride and groom sharing their first kiss on stage at the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, Dorset

Wedding guests on their feet applauding after the ceremony at the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, Dorset

Black and white photo of a closed for private event sign outside the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, on Tom and Hannah's wedding day

Tom and Hannah smiling together in the doorway of the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, after their wedding ceremony

Tom and Hannah walking through confetti thrown by guests in the foyer of the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, Dorset

Tom and Hannah laughing as confetti fills the air outside the Electric Palace Cinema, Bridport, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

Tom and Hannah standing outside the Electric Palace Cinema in Bridport, Dorset, after their wedding ceremony

Scenic Portraits by the Sea - Bridport Dorset Wedding Photographer at West Bay


Following the heartwarming ceremony, we embarked on a picturesque journey to West Bay, famed for its stunning "Broadchurch" cliffs. The coastal backdrop provided a breathtaking setting for the couple's photoshoot. With the sun painting the cliffs in warm hues, we captured the essence of their love against the backdrop of the Dorset coast.


But the seaside adventure had a comical twist. As we were capturing the couple's joy, a rogue wave surprised us all. In the blink of an eye, Hannah's elegant sandals were nearly swept away by the sea. Without hesitation, I dashed after them, cameras still attached, and managed to rescue the precious footwear. I traded my professional poise for flip-flops from the back of my car for the rest of the day, while my cameras remained unscathed – a true testament to the unexpected adventures of wedding photography.


Tom and Hannah on the harbour wall at West Bay, Dorset, with the iconic cliffs behind them, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

Tom and Hannah laughing together on the beach at West Bay, Dorset, after their Bridport wedding

Tom and Hannah on the sand dunes at West Bay, Dorset, dwarfed by a dramatic blue sky

All Aboard the Love Train

As the day transitioned into evening, the celebration continued in an old train carriage. The wedding reception and dinner took place here, at The Station Kitchen in West Bay, adorned with charming and quirky decorations. The food was nothing short of amazing, reflecting the couple's desire for a laid-back yet unforgettable experience.


To keep the guests entertained, Tom and Hannah had thoughtfully provided a separate carriage filled with fun board games. The old station itself was transformed into a cool cocktail bar, adding a touch of nostalgia to the festivities.


The Station Kitchen sign at West Bay, Dorset, decorated with warm globe lights for Tom and Hannah's wedding reception

Black and white photo of Tom and Hannah walking along the platform at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Inside the wedding reception train carriage at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset, with a colourful banquet table laid for dinner

Table name "Gyllyngvase" on torn paper, on top of a bottle filled with sea glass - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Table name "Whitstable" on torn paper, on top of a bottle filled with sea glass - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Sign on wall "tickets please" on panelled wall inside carriage - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Gold Pineapple candle holder on banquet table in train carriage- Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

A wedding guest laughing in front of a Spice Girls lyric sign at The Station Kitchen cocktail bar, West Bay, Dorset

Wedding guests playing Jenga in the games carriage at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Cocktails being served on a tray - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Man drinking from ceramic head - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Hanging monkey decoration in cocktail bar with lots of crystal glasses hanging - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

Guests playing ring toss game on station platform, celebrating win - Wedding photography at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset

A Sunset to Remember

As the day drew to a close, nature itself gifted us with a breathtaking photo opportunity. The setting sun cast a warm, golden glow over the horizon, creating the perfect backdrop for capturing the love and joy radiating from Tom and Hannah. This sunset moment remains one of my all-time favourite photos, a testament to the beauty of love and nature coming together on the Dorset coast.


Silhouette of Tom and Hannah on the beach at West Bay, Dorset, with the sunset and cliffs behind them

Tom and Hannah walking along the golden sands at West Bay, Dorset, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

Tom and Hannah embracing on the golden sands at West Bay, Dorset, bathed in warm sunset light, photographed by Libby Clark Photography

The Magic of Tom and Hannah

What made this wedding truly special, apart from the stunning location and memorable moments, was the couple themselves. Tom and Hannah were not just gracious hosts; they exuded a genuine warmth that made everyone feel like a part of their inner circle. I was even asked by a guest how long I'd been friends with them, a testament to the rapport and connection I strive to build with my clients.


In the heart of Bridport, Dorset, amidst the sun, sea, and love, Tom and Hannah's wedding was a shining example of a fun, laid-back celebration by the coast. It was a privilege to capture the laughter, the love, and the unforgettable moments of their special day against the backdrop of this charming seaside town. As a wedding photographer from Wiltshire, it was a journey I won't soon forget – a day filled with warmth, laughter, and the magic of love by the sea.


Tom and Hannah cutting their wedding cake at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset, surrounded by vintage railway signs

Tom and Hannah's first dance at The Station Kitchen, West Bay, Dorset, with family watching on

Comments

bottom of page