Rachel and Matthew celebrated their wedding at The Paper Mill, which is a woodland venue on the border of Kent and East Sussex. The ceremony at The Paper Mill took place in a forest small opening. Hay bails were placed for wedding guests to sit and enjoy as the couple would make their vows.

Rachel and Matt had decorated The Paper Mill in their own style with paper spheres and festival bunting. A short walk from the ceremony area was a large field where guests could play lawn games in the sun. The field was also where the barn and marquee were located. They would later hold the wedding breakfast and evening entertainment later in the day.

The day began with Matt and his groomsmen preparing the venue with decorations, organising table settings and ensuring that the drinks bar was well stocked! Rachel was getting ready at Rachel and Matt’s home in Kent, joined by her bridesmaids, her parents and her and Matt’s son and daughter (who would later be ring bearer and flower girl for the ceremony).

The sun shone through the trees during the woodland ceremony and there were wonderful readings from 4 guests. One of the readings was from Phillip Pullman’s “Amber Spyglass” trilogy. It spoke about the magical nature of the connection between two people and how unbreakable true connections can be. It was beautifully delivered and I knew that the passage was something I wanted to include in the final film.

The ceremony concluded and the wedding guests made their way into another woodland area where canapes and Pimms were being served. Shortly after the guests made their way out of the forest to a larger opening where the lawn games and marquee were located. Food was enjoyed and speeches were delivered by the father of the bride, the groom and the two best men. The best men travelled and lived with Matt at different times in his life and, together, they ensured that no stones were left unturned!

After the speeches the barn dance began – everyone loves a ceilidh! The evening drew in and the ceilidh band finished their set and were replaced by The Soundcasters. The Soundcasters are a 4 piece originals band, who were incredibly entertaining and are certainly on my recommendations list.

Rachel and Matt danced all night and after one last anthem, they made their way to the blazing bonfire – another great feature that comes with reserving a wedding at The Paper Mill.

Congratulations Rachel & Matt for inviting me to film your woodland wedding. I wish you and your family all the best for the future – Andy