Siân & Chris’ Wedding at St Mary’s Church, Kingsclere and The Old Mill, Aldermaston – A Classic Summer Celebration

Some weddings have an atmosphere that lingers long after the day itself, and Siân and Chris’ wedding in June was exactly that kind of day. With a ceremony at the beautiful St Mary’s Church in Kingsclere and a reception at The Old Mill, Aldermaston, this was a timeless celebration of love, family, and heritage. From Chris’ ceremonial Royal Navy uniform to the relaxed laughter of their guests, every moment was filled with character and warmth – the perfect combination for a truly memorable day.

A Meaningful Ceremony at St Mary’s Church, Kingsclere

The day began in the picturesque village of Kingsclere, where St Mary’s Church stands proudly at the heart of the community. Its traditional stone walls and soft summer light created the perfect setting for a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by family and friends. The church was filled with that quiet, anticipatory excitement that always builds before the bride’s entrance – a moment that never loses its magic, no matter how many weddings you’ve seen.

As Siân made her entrance, all eyes turned to Chris, dressed immaculately in his Royal Navy ceremonial uniform. It was my first military wedding to photograph, and there was something particularly powerful about the tradition and pride that uniform symbolised. The formality of Chris’ attire contrasted beautifully with the warmth and emotion of the ceremony itself, making it a truly special experience to capture.

Travelling in Style – The Vintage VW Camper

After the ceremony, the newlyweds stepped out into glorious June sunshine, ready to begin their journey as husband and wife. Waiting outside was one of the day’s highlights – a beautifully restored vintage VW campervan that whisked them away from the church to their reception at The Old Mill. It was the perfect touch of personality and fun, a nod to their shared sense of adventure and relaxed approach to the day.

The journey between venues was full of laughter and smiles – those in-between moments that often become some of the most cherished memories. Watching Siân and Chris through the window of that camper, surrounded by the rolling Hampshire countryside, summed up the spirit of the day: joyful, classic, and entirely their own.

A Stunning Reception at The Old Mill, Aldermaston

The Old Mill in Aldermaston is one of those venues that seems made for summer weddings. With its rustic charm, riverside setting, and beautifully kept grounds, it offers endless opportunities for stunning photography. The afternoon light reflected off the water, creating a soft glow that gave every photograph a timeless quality.

Guests enjoyed drinks on the lawn while we explored the grounds for some portraits. The natural surroundings – from the winding paths to the lush greenery by the water – provided a beautiful backdrop for relaxed, candid images of the couple together. Siân’s elegant dress and Chris’ formal Navy uniform stood out perfectly against the soft, natural tones of the landscape.

A Celebration Filled with Family, Friends, and Joy

What stood out most throughout the day was the sense of togetherness. From the laughter echoing through the speeches to the quiet glances between Siân and Chris, this was a wedding that revolved around connection. The relaxed atmosphere at The Old Mill meant everyone could truly enjoy themselves – whether that was chatting by the river, enjoying the music, or simply soaking up the summer evening.

As the sun began to set, we captured some final portraits in the fading light – those golden moments where the world seems to slow down just enough to take it all in. The combination of soft light, stunning surroundings, and the genuine affection between Siân and Chris made for some of my favourite images of the season.

A Day That Blended Tradition and Personality

Siân and Chris’ wedding was a perfect example of how to blend tradition with individuality. From the military uniform and church ceremony to the vintage VW camper and rustic riverside reception, every element reflected a part of who they are as a couple. It was a day that balanced elegance and fun, formality and freedom – all brought together under a perfect summer sky.

For me, it was an honour to capture my first military wedding, and one that truly celebrated love, heritage, and the moments that matter most.

Planning your wedding at The Old Mill, Aldermaston or St Mary’s Church, Kingsclere?

Both venues offer the perfect mix of character, charm, and natural beauty – ideal for couples who want their wedding to feel timeless yet relaxed. Days like Siân and Chris’ are a reminder of what wedding photography is all about: real emotion, natural storytelling, and memories that last a lifetime.

(Rhys Murray Photography – Candid, Documentary-Style Wedding Photography in Oxfordshire and the South.)