Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Page number 87 - November/December 2021 (Issue 89)

WINTER WINNERS How can we make the most of the season for magical winter wedding photos and overcome some of the seasonal challenges such as bad weather and lack of light? Dom says: The key to enjoying a winter wedding and capturing magical photographs is to be selective. Cold and damp weather, bare trees and windswept landscapes don’t lend themselves naturally to feelings of joy and wellbeing, so when planning your big day, try to minimise the impact as much as possible. Stay cosy indoors and focus on what’s going to make you feel festive. A professional photographer will adapt to the situation and guide you through. If you’re having full- day coverage, shots of your bridal preparations during the morning will be much as they might be in the summer. Although soft, natural window light during the winter actually makes for more flattering portraits. For indoor ceremonies, well-lit rooms are always a boon to photographers. In dark spaces, we need to use camera settings that can make for grainier photos. If it’s dry, formal shots might still be possible outside. Use architecture as your backdrop rather than bare trees, and keep in mind that your guests won’t want to hang around in the cold for long! There should also be enough space for family photographs indoors – a staircase is ideal for larger groups. Instead of worrying though, why not embrace the rich colours of winter and ask your florist to include seasonal blooms? For your reception, seek out venues with a traditional ambience. Think wood panelling, chandeliers and add decorations like seasonal berries, pine cones and fairylights, all of which can be featured in images of the day. Dom Brenton | Wedding photographer www.dombrenton.com BEAT THE CHILLS We’re getting married in December and I’m worried I’ll look washed out in the photos if most of them have to be taken inside. What would you suggest for standout bridal glam, whatever the weather? Caroline says: First things first; get your skin in tip-top condition, as it’s hungrier for moisture in the winter due to the drying effects of central heating and chilly winds. Keeping your complexion well hydrated is something I can’t stress enough; try Trilogy Rosehip oil at night; perfect for overall skin health and radiance. ❤ Next avoid products with SPF which can make you look paler in photos taken indoors. Use a liquid cream foundation to keep your skin moist and to provide good coverage in case of flushed cheeks caused by temperature extremes going in and out. ❤ Work with the winter conditions, use light-reflecting foundation/concealer to counteract any bluish facial tone. Blue-toned lipsticks or blusher can be used though to maintain constant colour for photos inside or out. ❤ Give your make-up a colourful twist to create interest. A smoky eye with a red lip always works well, and a pop of pink cream blusher looks fabulously Snow White! These colours are also longer lasting than neutral shades which in winter can make you look washed out. ❤ Embrace your natural skin tone. Many brides try to go for a warmer look in winter when in fact if they’re an English rose it’s a huge mistake to pile on bronzer; instead a pink-toned pressed or loose powder will give you a lovely natural warmth. Caroline Swaffield | Hair and make-up artist www.amazing-face.co.uk Image: www.photosbyjim.co.uk, Hair & make-up, www.amazing-face.co.uk Sealed with a kiss outside Romsey Abbey Cosy wedding breakfast at the Bartley Lodge Hotel in the New Forest EXPERT ADVICE 87