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James & Gina's Wintery Christmas Wedding in Oxford, England.

EMILY MONTAY PHOTOGRAPHY
December 20, 2023
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        There is something extra special about a Christmas wedding, and further to that, a Christmas wedding in Oxford. I've held a fascination with Oxford ever since reading A Discovery of Witches as a young adult, which went on to become one of my favorite books. So when Gina and James reached out to ask if I would travel to Oxford for their engagement session and wedding, I was beyond thrilled.  Click here to see their engagement session around the colleges of Oxford.

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        The morning of the wedding was bright and crispy. Given England's typical weather, you couldn't have really asked for a more beautiful winter's day.  We began the festivities at the bride and groom's apartment, where the bride got ready with her sister, best friend, and mother. The modern bride that she is, Gina chose to do her own hair and makeup which came out absolutely perfectly. 

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        The colors of the wedding were a gentle nod to Christmas, without being over the top. The bride drew inspiration from her family tartan, which conveniently had winter tones of forrest green and white. Snow white roses offered the most perfect simple addition to the deep green bridesmaids dresses. 

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        As for the wedding dress itself, I can't say enough how perfectly it matched the elegant, classic, and modern city vibe of the wedding. The main feature of this off the shoulder gown was the tulle bow in the back. Although it was a little bit of an event to tie perfectly, it absolutely made the dress and photographed beautifully throughout the day and evening. 

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        Before long, we were in a black cab on the way to Oxford Town Hall, where the ceremony was taking place. I've been to many town halls in London, but none can really compare to this stunningly crafted Victorian building. The ceremony took place in the assembly room, which was a joy to photograph. Flooded in natural light from the 10ft tall windows, walls adorned in oil paintings, and a vast fireplace built hundreds of years ago, it was truly one of the most beautiful rooms. 

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        After the ceremony (and of course the confetti throw), we were off in the bride's uncle's old light blue Citroen Dyane to visit the hidden treasures of Oxford for their couple session. 

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        The evening ended in a candle-lit dinner at Freud's Cafe. Cocktails, a live band, and the warm Christmassy glow ensured one of the most joyous receptions I've been to. 

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Bride gets ready at home.

Finishing touches on the hair.

Taking down the wedding dress.

About to get dressed.

Mirror glances.

Final touches.

And we're out the door.

Makeup check in the cab.

View from Oxford town hall.

Looking at the view.

Interview before the ceremony.

The groom waiting for his bride.

She's arrived!

"Does anyone know any reason why these two may not be married"

Ceremony.

Married!

Yay.

Happy guests.

The confetti shot.

Confetti shot pt 2.

Exciting the town hall.

So much confetti.

Alone in the Oxford town hall.

Romantic.

Husband and wife.

Couple shoot in the Oxford town hall.

The Citroen Dyane!

Exiting the get-away car.

Wandering around Oxford.

Oxford couple session.

Just outside the Bodleian Library.

A dip :)

The venice bridge.

Peep the little car.

Walking through Oxford.

Dusk is coming.

The bow!

Bride and Groom.

<3

Wind kicking up.

Happy bride and groom.

More wandering.

And more wandering.

Narnia vibes.

The Christmas tree outside the Bodleian Library

Dancing by the tree.

Christmas!

Back to the car.

En route to the reception.

Sparkler entrance.

Freud Cafe and Bar.

Reception decor.

Tablescape.

Guests arriving.

Guests enjoying themselves.

The bride at the reception.

Fun guests.

Bride mingling.

Speeches start.

Best man makes his speech.

Tears of laughter.

Cheers!

Happy guest.

Selfies.

Applause for the bride and groom.

Cutting the cake!

Some more champagne please.

First dance.

Guests dancing.

Party kicking off!

Guests

and more guests!

Bride and her friends.

Guests on the dance floor.

Impressive dancing.

By the tree!

Last little couple session.

And a wardrobe change for the bride!

<3

Back to dancing.

First dance round 2.

Some for me please!

Groom dancing.

The end :)

Special Mentions:

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Photographer: Emily Montay 

Ceremony Venue:  Oxford Town Hall

Reception Venue: Freud's 

Florist: Blue & Boheme

Bridal Shop: Ellie Sanderson

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