RECREATING WEDDING PHOTOS 25 YEARS ON

BY DAWN MARIE - THE WEDDING GUIDE UK

Credit: Carys B Photography

Recreating Wedding Photos 25 Years on, a Return to Carlton Towers

Carlton Towers recently played host to a 25 year anniversary celebration with a difference. Clair and Steve were married on 3rd June, 2000. Fast-forward 25 years and they returned to Carlton Towers for a very special celebratory Silver Wedding Anniversary lunch…and to re-create their wedding photographs!

Here Clair tells their story…

“We were married on 3rd June 2000, with a ceremony in Kirton in Lindsey, Lincolnshire, followed by our wedding reception at the stunning Carlton Towers. When we were looking for venues, we just loved the place – it had such presence and charm, even before it had the rooms and vineyard that it has now. We were lucky to celebrate with over a hundred family and friends, and it really was a fantastic day.

Over the years, whenever we’ve been in the area, we often find ourselves driving as close as we can to Carlton Towers just to reminisce. It’s always held a special place in our hearts.

As our silver wedding anniversary approached, I thought how lovely it would be to go back. I started looking at events on their website, but nothing was scheduled around our date. I decided to get in touch directly to see if we could visit and maybe look around the parts of the venue where we had our reception – and possibly take a few photos, if they allowed that sort of thing.

I spoke with Alice at Carlton Towers, who was so helpful and supportive. She asked if I had thought about hiring a photographer, which honestly hadn’t crossed my mind. I was arranging it all as a surprise for my husband and wondered if it might be a bit over the top! But the more I thought about it, the more I liked the idea – especially as we have so few photos of us. Photographs of us now all tend to include our son. Maybe it’s a little cheesy, but it felt meaningful.

Alice sent me a list of recommended photographers, and I spent time looking through their websites. When I saw Carys B Photography, I was drawn to how relaxed and natural her couples looked – her work really stood out. I reached out, explained the idea, and after a lovely chat she completely put me at ease. It was especially reassuring, since I was keeping it all a secret – only my son and his girlfriend knew, and they helped me keep the surprise. I even booked the day off work for my husband with the help of one of his clients!

I told Steve the week before, and once he got over the idea of a photo shoot, he agreed it was a great idea. The day itself was everything I hoped it would be. Driving up the long driveway, just as we had 25 years ago, felt emotional and nostalgic. We were welcomed warmly, given the freedom to explore, and Carys was fantastic. She captured so many beautiful images, including recreations of a few from our wedding day. I love the side by side ones – I don’t think we have changed much!

Afterwards, we had lunch at The Stables Tearoom, which was lovely, especially overlooking the vineyard. On our way home, we even stopped by the church in Kirton.

We’re so grateful to Alice and the team at Carlton Towers for allowing us to return, and to Carys for capturing the day so perfectly. Everyone we’ve shared the photos with has loved the idea – it’s been a very special way to mark 25 years together.”

Thanks to Clair and Steve – and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!