La Roca Rara, Frigiliana, Malaga
Sabrina and Michael´s Special Day
La Roca Rara is in Frigiliana and I first shot here whilst assisting Jeremy Standley a few years back and liked it as this private villa has a lot of character in my mind and is certainly great for 60 guests. I hadn’t met with Sabrina and Michael prior to wedding though and had literally only just spoken a few days prior the wedding. We had a lovely chat and I just knew that everything would run well especially with the expertise of Jennifer from Spanish Wedding Planner over looking the running of the day.
Below are just a few of my personal favourite images and the story of their day…
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Sabrina and Michael’s day
Preparation
Upon arrival, the atmosphere was very chilled, with just a few people walking around. Champagne was being set up under a covered area of a beautiful terrace, with a picturesque surrounding and a small fountain that kept the kids amused as it had some frogs in it which the kids were enjoying watching. I entered a room by the pool where Sabrina was getting ready as Lorraine of Princess Bride was styling her hair. No-one was left out at this wedding as the young boys were having their hair styled too with some gel, their trendy suits looked cool and I did wonder how little time I would probably have to capture some images of them before their suits showed signs of playing. Although quite a large size venue the layout of the was good from a photographic standpoint as I was able to easily and discreetly nip back and forth through the restaurant to access the different rooms that had more things going on, although there were no actual activities a such, I always find something that can create interest, so intrigued I paused as I went past the gardens to catch the young boys staring into a pond, intensely concentrating on an another frogs movements., this was surely my last chance to capture them before they were going to be running around playing Mike Jingle played guitar as guests started to take their seats ready for the ceremony and there was a calm aura as Michael and guests awaited his beautiful bride.
Ceremony
Sabrina was led across the terrace and down the aisle by her sons who passed a cushion with the wedding rings to the best man, there were two bridesmaids closely following and finally the beautiful bride accompanied by her Father. Sabrina looked amazing as her Father kissed her and proudly gave her hand to Michael. As the ceremony began everyone listened attentively as the minister started his speech and the bride and groom lit individual candles. These were to be used together to light one single larger candle that was inside a decorative lantern, shielding it from the wind. Sabrina and Michael´s eldest son, eagerly accompanied by Michael’s sister both performed meaningful readings, bringing big smiles to everyone’s faces and as the happy couple gazed into each others eyes, proud family and friends looked on emotionally. There was a big hug and kiss between the couple and they turned to sign a certificate of consent. The guests cheered and clapped as Sabrina and Michael were handed a glass of champagne and confetti was thrown over them as they walked back up the aisle to lots of hugs and congratulations from everyone, what a lovely ceremony for lovely people.
Reception
As everyone moved inside to escape the beautiful but warm sun, I noticed the stain glass windows were creating a warm glow of colour in the room and a soothing ambience while canapés and cocktails were served to all. It was plain to see that everyone was enjoying themselves. I took Sabrina and Michael off for some portraits, shortly joined by their children. We managed to capture some natural and informal family shots, the youngest child being a little restless so keeping me on the move. I decided to change locations as much as possible to keep the boys on the move too and in an attempt to get the youngest more interested in what we were doing. We literally just had enough time for a couple of close family portraits before it was time to return to the banquet hall and sit to eat. The speeches were very interesting indeed and I could tell that some extra effort had been made in particular when listening to Michael’s sister’s enthusiastic and energy filled speech. The speeches and toasts finished, gifts were handed out and people were thanked for there support. Some fantastic food was now ready to be served, it looked great and everyone seemed to enjoy it immensely. The kids must have eaten theirs quite quickly though as they were soon up and off not caring any more for the colouring books that had been placed on the tables for them. As guest enjoyed their meals I suggested to Sabrina and Michael a few more portraits as the light was fantastic just as the sun was setting. they happily agreed and we went out for a few more pictures until we were spotted and returned again.
Party
The evenings entertainment was a brilliant show on the terrace outside by Mike Jingle and his team of flamenco entertainers, the kids loved it and joined in by attempting this intense dance themselves. It was a relief that the temperature was gradually lowering and people started to feel a little cooler and more comfortable as we all moved back inside for the cutting of the cake. A traditional 3 tier wedding cake with figurines of not only the happy couple but of their boys too was cut with a sword in the traditional manor. Next was a very romantic and slow first dance by the married couple and the party was then officially on with lots of fun and dancing to the guitarist duo that had set up. It was plain to see that everyone was happy to get up, dance and generally get involved as nobody was shy at this wedding, everyone participated in one way or another as they all sang late into the night.
Another successful wedding thanks to Spanish Wedding Planner, Jennifer and a great day not just for Sabrina and Michael, but for everyone. A special thank you to a lovely couple for inviting me to capture their story and share their wedding story in images. I wish you all the best for future together.
