JUST a few weeks ago, with spring in the air, I was photographing the lovely Rosie and Jake at the stunning Painshill Park in Surrey.

The venue, not far from Wimbledon where I’m based, is a lush 18th century landscaped garden, with the crystal man-made grotto, Gothic Temple, vineyard, Ruined Abbey and a Serpentine Lake. The perfect venue for a pre-wedding, engagement shoot.

The couple. Rosie and Jake’s story

How did you meet?

I helped organise a mass holiday to Greece for 50 people in one villa. Jake was of the guests and we got together there.

Proposal:

Was on a beach in Sardinia, Italy.

The ring didn’t arrive in time so Jake bought a cheap one from the local supermarket and proposed after talking about shooting stars being space poop!

Tell us about your engagement photography session.

‘‘Twas a bit chilly and windy but the setting was beautiful. We chose the venue because of an episode of Black Mirror where a couple got together at the ruined chapel. We wanted to get married there but at the time it wasn’t possible.

Why is important to have a pre-wedding photo shoot?

It’s great to try out your photographer before the big day. It’s also nice to give those not used to being photographed a little sense of what it will be like on the big day.

Any big plan for the future?

We are heading to Costa Rica next year for our honeymoon so that will be a big expedition. Hopefully followed by kids (max. 2) and all the other kinds of adulting married people do!

What advice would you give to new couples planning their wedding?

Concentrate on what means the most to you and write it down. You will need to compromise on stuff not just with each other but with others as well but as long as you know what aspects are the most important to you, you’ll be able to make decisions easily. Oh and no one remembers the centrepieces so don’t overspend or over think them.

Rosie :)

Rosie and Jake will get married in the summer at the stunning Clearwell Castle in Gloucestershire.