Harriett & Hitesh's Winter London Wedding

As a documentary wedding photographer in London, I love capturing weddings that are full of personality, warmth, and those unfiltered, candid moments that can tell a couple’s story. Harriett and Hitesh’s wedding was just that—a beautiful winter wedding brimming with laughter, and personal touches.

I joined Harriett on the morning of her wedding as she got ready with her bridesmaids, mother and aunts. The room was filled with excitement and giggles, a reflection of the beautiful closeness they all shared. One of the loveliest aspects of the day was that Harriett’s maid of honour was also Harriett’s brother’s wife, a detail that really highlighted the deep family connections present throughout the day. As everyone finished getting ready, champagne was popped, presents were exchanged, and anticipation filled the air.

Harriett stunned in a simple yet elegant winter wedding dress, bright white with a gorgeous fur trim, perfectly complemented by pink heels and a chic white fur coat. She was the epitome of a winter bride—timeless, stylish, and absolutely glowing.

The ceremony took place at Islington Town Hall, a venue steeped in history and charm. Harriett and Hitesh’s family and friends—spanning all generations, from tiny toddlers to proud grandparents—gathered to witness their vows. The atmosphere was electric with joy. As Harriett walked in, beaming from ear to ear, Hitesh’s face lit up with pure love. Their ceremony was a beautiful mix of sweet, emotional moments and the kind of lighthearted fun that made it so uniquely them.

After the ceremony, we captured some brilliant confetti shots, surrounded by their many friends and family. It was one of those classic, joy-filled moments that makes documentary-style wedding photography so rewarding.

In true London wedding style, a classic red vintage bus arrived to whisk everyone away to the reception. This was my first time photographing a wedding that used a vintage bus for transport, and I couldn’t have been more excited to document the experience. Downstairs, families and kids delighted in the nostalgic ride, while upstairs, Harriett and Hitesh’s friends brought the energy, celebrating the newlyweds in full force.

We arrived at The Banker, a beautifully traditional English pub set right on the River Thames, offering stunning riverside views. With dark wood interiors, cozy corners, and open spaces perfect for mingling, it was the ideal setting for a warm and intimate winter wedding reception.

Upon arrival, drinks were poured—not just the traditional bubbly, but also pints of Guinness, a thoughtful touch reflecting Hitesh’s dislike for champagne and the couple’s desire to cater to their guests’ tastes.

As everyone settled in, the wedding breakfast and speeches began. Harriett kicked things off with a witty and heartfelt speech, her signature beaming smile ever-present. Throughout the evening, I couldn’t help but notice the way Hitesh looked at her—completely enamored, as if the whole room had disappeared around them. These are the moments that remind me why I love being a documentary wedding photographer. I get to be a fly on the wall, witnessing and capturing these beautiful, unspoken connections that tell a couple’s story in the most genuine way.

After dinner, Harriett, Hitesh, and I stepped outside to take some couple portraits, making the most of our stunning location. The mix of industrial and historic elements along the Thames provided the perfect backdrop. This is always one of my favourite parts of a wedding day—collaborating with a couple to create images that feel authentic to their story. Whether it’s capturing their silliness, their intimacy, or their excitement, these moments always feel like a true reflection of their connection.

When we returned to The Banker, the pub was absolutely packed with guests who had arrived for the evening celebrations. Harriett and Hitesh are clearly adored by their friends and family, and the energy in the room was incredible.

The speeches continued with heartfelt words from Hitesh’s best man—his brother—whose humour and warmth made it clear just how close they are. Harriett’s father also delivered a moving speech, reflecting on her adventurous spirit and the love she had now found with Hitesh, leaving many in the room teary-eyed.

The couple opted for a low-key cake cutting, keeping it casual and intimate. The beautiful cake, lovingly made by Harriett’s mum, was yet another testament to the strong family bonds that made this wedding so special.

The first dance was a sweet and understated moment, with the couple wrapped up in each other as their guests looked on with adoration. Then, the real party kicked off! A live band set the tone for the rest of the evening, and soon, the dance floor was alive with guests letting loose, indulging in sweet treats, and soaking up the incredible atmosphere.

As the night drew to a close, I took a step back to reflect on the day. Weddings like Harriett and Hitesh’s remind me why I love being an alternative documentary wedding photographer—capturing genuine, heartfelt moments in a way that feels natural and true to the couple’s story.