Nataliya and Andrew combined a beautiful English Country House with some wonderful Russian traditions for a truly personal wedding day, you can see their Hedsor House wedding photography below.

The Venue

Hedsor House is one of those venues that provides the perfect backdrop for that special day. With stunning Georgian architecture, and modern touches from its recent renovation a Hedsor House wedding always delivers. The beautiful domed ceiling of the Centre Hall is one of my favourite locations to capture; it creates such beautiful light that is often lacking in lots of venues.

The Day

The day had a fabulous celebration vibe, Nataliya was serenaded down the aisle by a live saxophonist in her outstanding Suzanne Neville gown from Ellie Sanderson Bridal Boutique. Both Russian and English readings were used during the ceremony, this started the theme for the day of bringing together these two families and their traditions. The guests then moved on the terrace where they were swerved canapés, champagne and a real ale from a Wimbledon Brewery, Andrew had lived there for many years and wanted to add a touch from this part of his life.

The Traditions

Bread and Salt Ceremony: The newlyweds are welcomed with bread, salt, and sometimes a drink (like vodka or wine) by their parents. The bread symbolizes prosperity, the salt represents the difficulties they may encounter, and the drink symbolizes joy.

The wedding breakfast started with the breaking of the ceremonial bread the Karavai. The tradition of this ornamental loaf goes back centuries in Russia and can been seen as a blessing on the marriage, Nataliya and Andrew both tore pieces of the bread to decide who would become the head of the family…Nataliya’s was bigger!

With the speeches came bottles of chilled vodka to toast in true Russian style! A professional translator also ensured everyone could understand this part of the day, bringing these two families together beautifully!

The Fireworks

The evening was finished off beautifully with some amazing fireworks, they were stunning and a perfect way to complete Andrew and Nataliya’s perfect day. Classic Russian and British tunes made sure the guests partied into the night.

Little Black Book of Suppliers

Caterer and Production – Rocket Food

Production – GLO

DJ – Ollie White

Florist – Amelia Cornish

Videographer – Minty Slippers 

Dress – Suzanne Neville – Ellie Sanderson Beaconsfield

Make-up and Hair – InParlour

Hedsor House Wedding Photos