The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Embracing a New Chapter in Cornwall: Photography, Farm Life,  Finding Peace, and weddings!
31st January 2024 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

Some of you might know that the past four years have been a bit of a rollercoaster for us. Amongst other things, our house was compulsory purchased for a new road development, turning our world upside down. But every cloud has a silver lining, and ours has led us to a fresh start in Cornwall! Yes, we’ve made the leap to a life surrounded by the sea, the countryside, and a whole new world of photographic opportunities. And fear not, my Essex clients! Our ties to Essex are still strong. We will be back often to capture your special moments, ensuring that the distance only makes our work together more special. Cornwall, with its rugged cliffs, whispering waves, and gentle countryside, is more than just a place – it’s a feeling. A feeling of serenity, a connection with nature, and an endless source of inspiration. As a photographer, this move has been a dream come true. The dramatic coastline, the golden hours by the sea, and the quaint, rustic charm of farm life provide a canvas like no other. Living on a farm in Cornwall is about to open up a whole new world for me. Embracing self-sufficiency, I’m gearing […]

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Beyond the Lens: A Photographer’s Journey to Capture Emotions
22nd November 2023 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

Hey there, fellow story seekers! I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about what makes my approach to photography more than just clicking pictures – it’s about creating connections, sharing laughter, and capturing the essence of your unique story. When you hire me as your photographer, you’re not just bringing in someone with a camera; you’re inviting a friend into your world. From the moment we start planning your shoot to the final click, it’s a collaborative adventure. I’m not just there to snap photos; I’m your partner in crime, your calming presence, someone to shoot your nerf guns at, someone with the answer to those last minute wedding questions you forgot to ask… whatever you need! Capturing the perfect image is not just about the technical aspects of photography; it’s about weaving together a narrative of emotions. Every smile, every shared glance, and every burst of laughter contributes to the tapestry of your story. My lens is not just a tool; it’s a storyteller, translating the unspoken moments into visual poetry. I know that sounds cheesy, and maybe it is a little, but its so true, these are the moments you will remember for ever. One […]

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Green Vows and Nature’s Embrace: Crafting Your Eco-Friendly Wedding Wonderland
13th November 2023 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

Hey lovebirds! In a world where sustainability is the new black, why not make your big day as eco-chic as possible? Enter the realm of eco-friendly weddings, where love meets planet care. Picture this: a celebration that not only unites two souls but also treads lightly on Mother Earth. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of green weddings and discover how you can say “I do” to both love and sustainability. 1. Venue Magic: Choosing the right venue is key to setting the eco-friendly tone. Opt for a naturally stunning outdoor location or a rustic barn that embraces the charm of imperfection. Nature becomes your backdrop, and you reduce the need for excessive decorations. Win-win! 2. Invitations with a Twist: Go digital or choose recycled paper for your invites. Better yet, get creative and craft plantable invitations. Your guests can literally sow the love you share, and wildflowers will bloom as a beautiful reminder of your special day. 3. Attire for Good Vibes: Say goodbye to the conventional wedding attire and embrace sustainable fashion. Consider second-hand dresses, ethical brands, or even rocking a vintage family heirloom. For grooms, a sharp suit made from eco-friendly fabrics is a stylish choice. 4. […]

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Georgie & Harry – Colville Hall, Essex.
27th April 2023 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

What an incredible day it was to photograph Georgie and Harry’s wedding at Colville Hall in Essex! The couple were simply glowing with excitement as they tied the knot and celebrated their love in the beautifully decorated barn, surrounded by friends and family.  The groom, Harry, looked absolutely dapper in his tweed suit and cap, along with his stylish boutonniere. Meanwhile, Georgie was a vision of beauty in her stunning lace dress, with the most beautiful bouquet from Austins Weddings  The day was absolutely filled with love, smiles, and much laughter. From the emotional ceremony where the couple shared their vows of forever, to the moments spent dancing and celebrating the newlyweds. What a privilege it was to have played a part in such a wonderful wedding and to witness the magnitude of love and joy radiating throughout the day!

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Sophie and Maddie’s White Hart Wedding
18th April 2023 by maryann in Uncategorised, Weddings 0 Comments

I had the honour of photographing Sophie and Maddie getting married at the White Hart, in Great Yeldham. A truly magical day, surrounded by love and beauty where even the rain couldn’t dampen the spirit of the two brides, and a ceremony filled with all kinds of beautiful details. The brides wore stunning vintage-style dresses with added contemporary touches, giving the looks an elegant and unique feel. Tarot cards marked the details of the ceremony, such as writing their vows on tarot cards from a reading the previous evening, to the exchange of rings, and the brides’ triumphant “I do’s.” Dried flowers added charm and delicacy to the scenery, and the result was simply breathtaking. Despite the wet weather, the overall atmosphere was truly magical and the level of love and happiness in the air was palpable. It was an honour to be able to be part of their special day, and to capture their beautiful memories. The White Hart provided the perfect setting for their unique, one-of-a-kind day, and I hope I did justice to the beautiful brides and their love for one another. Some hard dancing followed a day filled with laughs, love and more than one tear! […]

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Julia & Silvers’ Cornish Beach Wedding at Lusty Glaze
27th November 2022 by maryann in Uncategorised, Weddings 0 Comments

Julia and Silver’s Unique Lusty Glaze Oceanside wedding Venue – https://www.lustyglaze.co.uk Cake – https://www.pollywebbcakes.co.uk

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Real Wedding – Natalie and Lukes’ Tonbridge Wells Handfasting
27th November 2022 by maryann in Uncategorised, Weddings 0 Comments

Natalie and Lukes gorgeous handfasting at The Spa Hotel, Tonbridge Wells

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
How to Create Natural Family Photography by Embracing the Essex Countryside
12th October 2021 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

Today, we explore how shooting outdoor family photography in the beautiful Essex countryside can achieve the natural shots you’ve been searching for. As someone who has been involved in family photography for many years, I know the importance of my work in making memories for my lovely Essex couples. Be that the first few shots of their newborn, wedding or engagement celebrations. Each of these big stages in life are vitally important to cherish, and to look back on with fondness. And that is why our job, as a lifestyle photographer, is so pivotal in the business of creating keepsakes for our couples. Shooting the perfect family photography session is, however, no mean feat, and I often have to get creative with my Essex couples in order to create the memento they deserve. Because, as the adage goes, ‘never work with children or animals’! And kids, in particular, can be very unpredictable, often inattentive and sometimes just plain shy when put in front of a camera. So, they can be a challenge, especially when paired with a couple, or extended family who probably haven’t taken part in any professional modelling before. The key to ensuring that these family portraits are […]

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
The 5 Biggest Benefits of a Micro-Wedding
17th March 2021 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

An intimate, modern way to say ‘I Do’ without all the fuss a big wedding can bring. Find out why this photographer loves a micro-wedding. Before last year, most engaged couples had never heard of a micro-wedding. And even if they had, they wouldn’t consider the idea for their big day. However now, after the year we’ve all had, a micro-wedding has fast become the perfect antidote for couples starved of intimacy with their closest friends and family. As a wedding photographer in Essex, I’ve been a huge fan of the micro-wedding for some time. But a lot of couples have been asking me recently what it actually is, and why I think they should have one. So today I thought I’d share the benefits of a micro-wedding, and why it is a trend that will last. Firstly, What is a Micro-Wedding? A micro-wedding is normally an intimate celebration with no more than 25 guests in attendance, plus a photographer! As the name suggests, it is a smaller version of a wedding. With all the normal traditions honoured (or not), but in a much more cosy way. Why You Should Consider a Micro-Wedding So Much Easier to Plan If you’re […]

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The Menagerie Lifestyle Photography
Bucket list
16th February 2020 by maryann in Uncategorised 0 Comments

There are just a few, ok, quite a few things I would love to tick off my photography bucket list, I'd love to photograph them, you'd love a ridiculous deal on them

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