Pre-shoot at Alexandra Palace with Claudia and Dan
Giggles, laughs and wedding talks.
These are some of the reasons why I love pre-shoots! I’ve met up with Claudia and Dan back in May to go over their planned wedding at Merriscourt.
We were super lucky with the weather considering it has been slightly wet a few days before! All of us had a great time exploring the grounds of Alexandra Palace. It is a famous spot to overlook London, and I think it is not just my opinion.
Claudia and Dan have chosen to have their engagement shoot at Alexandra Palace because it’s so close to their heart. They live within walking distance, they often go up here for a stroll, and even their favourite pub is nearby – what is not to like?
If you are still looking for your photographer to document your most important day, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Our families loved the engagement shoot photos, they can’t wait to meet you at the wedding
Pre-Shoot at Farnhams Hall
I had such a fantastic time exploring Farnhams Hall with Rachel and Alasdair for their pre-shoot session. They have spent quite some time exploring Japan, and they have decided to book Farnhams Hall for both, their engagement and wedding because it’s gardens reminded them of all the good times and memories!
The grounds at Farnhams Hall are simply unimaginable! We took our time to take a wander around the venue to show me where their wedding ceremony and reception will be taking place. That was super thoughtful and made it easier for me to navigate on their wedding day!
We did the pre-shoot in the middle of April, and we were actually surprised with the 30 degrees heatwave! We took a stroll down the gardens. The grounds amazed us with two beautiful bridges, Japanese Garden pilgrimage and tea house and lots more! We spent quite a while wandering this beautiful place and outlining where we would go on their wedding day.
It’s going to be the most beautiful wedding at Farnhams Hall!
If you are still looking for your photographer to document your wedding day, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here or via my email karolina@kayzieba.co.uk . I look forward to hearing all about your wedding plans and ideas!
2018 in a nutshell
Your Hertfordshire Wedding Photographer here!
I think I repeat myself year, after, year, after year but it is true. Us photographers have the most rewarding job ever! Each year is getting busier and meeting all those fantastic couples with unique plans and ideas couldn’t be more satisfying.
I have managed to photograph 36 weddings between March – December, visit bespoke places and document real love. There is no way I could even imagine doing anything else but this. Creating my 2018 in Flash slideshow was so severe as there were so many amazing moments, made it incredibly hard to pick just a limited amount of photographs.
“Life without love is like a tree without blossoms or fruit.”
I cannot thank enough every single couple who have booked me to photograph their wedding! It was an unbelievably marvellous year, hope that all the upcoming years will be just as fulfilling!
As a Hertfordshire wedding photographer, I did travel all over the county as well as the rest of the UK. And as much as I would love to pick my favourite places – it is not that easy! You can, however, keep your eyes on my blog! I always try to feature the witnessed love stories. Why don’t you check Laura and Tyron‘s wedding at the Warbrook House in Hampshire or Carly and Adam‘s day at Headstone Manor Gallery in Harrow?
I hope you are ready to check out my best moments of 2018, with your favourite drink in your hand. The slideshow you are about to see is reflecting on my clients and their personalities. Powerful, upbeat with a hint of rock! They were the real rock stars!
If you are stopping by because you are looking for a photographer to document your wedding then get in touch asap as my calendar is almost full for 2019. I do still have dates available for 2020 and starting to take bookings for 2021! Message me through my contact page of via the email below.
karolina@kayzieba.co.uk
Should I have a second shooter?
I’m often asked by my couples “do we really need two photographers for our wedding?”. I understand that finding the perfect photographer for your day is enough to work as it is. Before you bin the idea, please let me give you six reasons why I find the second shooter highly valuable.
Getting Ready
Do you love the idea of having your and your partner’s preparations captured in the morning? I know that usually, you will get ready in different locations just so your groom doesn’t take a sneak peek of you before you walk down the aisle. Unfortunately, I have not gained my licence for Apparition just yet, and as much as I would love to be in both of those places, it is merely impossible. The second photographer usually starts with the groom, capturing his preparations, details and everything that is happening at that moment; while I can entirely focus on the bride without having to look at the clock.
Ceremony
During the ceremony, I don’t like to move around. The vicar/ registrar usually find it very disturbing to them and also to your guests. It is your big day, and everyone’s eyes should be on the two of you.
I get so many requests from my brides asking if I can capture grooms impression when he first sees you. Of course, that is such a beautiful and emotional moment I wouldn’t want you to miss it! As the chief photographer, I’m usually at the front as this is where the majority of the magic happens. Place where you say, your I do’s and seal your marriage with a kiss. The second photographer is always at the back, which allows them to capture that first look, capture candids of your guests – some might share a tear, some will smile away. They also can move freely at the back; therefore, they can get different angles of you, your guests and readings.
Speedy Formals
If you have been a guest at a wedding, you must know how much time consuming formal photographs might be. I do try to explain to all of my couples to not go over 12 groups to avoid your guests waiting around. While I shoot a group from my cheat list, my second shooter, aka right hand, usually gets another group ready. This way, we are all set and prepared to shoot continuously, and instead of this taking an hour, we cut the time as much as possible. Remember, it adds up to your cocktail hour!
More candid snaps
I work in an as much natural way as possible. This is your day, and I want you to enjoy it to the fullest! When it comes to your drinks reception, I want to capture you and your guests in the most natural way. Together with my second shooter, we aim to photograph the most natural smiles and impressions, preserving the most valuable moments.
Two sets of hands – two sets of eyes
Let’s talk speeches! Your husband, father, best man wrote funny but beautiful speeches, thanking your mother, bridesmaids and the whole family for helping out. When working with the second shooter, I can relax and capture all your speakers and trust my right hand to photograph your guests. Their reactions to your stories, their laugh to your dad’s bad joke, tears of joy and cheeky toasts! If your wedding is more significant in numbers, you can not expect one tog (no matter how fast and talented) to snap every crucial moment happening in each corner of the room.
The different point of view
We are all used to what we do, have a safe way of doing certain things. As the primary photographer, I focus on getting the most important shots and sometimes because of the time scale and other factors; I don’t get to be as creative as I wish I were. The second shooter does really have the freedom to think outside the box. When we go out for your couple shoots, I will get you to pose in the way I know is beautiful and flattering. My right hand will top it up with a different angle sometimes creating a whole new look. The same goes at your ceremony, first dance or even the evening portraits. Seriously, you cannot lose!
Of course, don’t feel like you have to have a second shooter! This is only an option you might or might not consider. If you are having fewer guests, trying to keep your wedding day intimate, then having a second tog might feel like it’s too much. There is no right or wrong, but if you ask for my opinion – 2 photographers are the best way forward! Let’s double the trouble!!
Message me – promise I won’t bite.
A relaxed summer wedding at Shenley Cricket Club – Christina & Gibs
IF YOU’RE PLANNING A SHENLEY CRICKET CLUB WEDDING, YOU’LL LOVE THIS WEDDING FOR INSPIRATION!
When Christina and Gibs first got in touch with me about their wedding, I was so excited – they were planning such a fun and relaxed wedding day. Christina and Gibs are the loveliest souls, and I couldn’t wait to shoot their wedding!
Getting Ready
I started at Christina’s parent’s house, where the bridal party were getting ready. It was so informal and chilled with everyone being in a good mood, singing, dancing and popping prosecco all morning. Christina wore a beautiful strapless A type dress, together with her hair and makeup she looked absolutely stunning! Gibs and the lads got ready at a hotel nearby, cherishing the last moments of his bachelor life.
The Wedding
The wedding took place at St Martins Church in Shenley, and it was a traditional church ceremony. They had a beautiful reading, which everyone enjoyed. After the ceremony, they walked down the aisle together, and then we did a confetti tunnel outside the church door. They have then driven together to the Shenley Cricket Club where we took our time and did their couple portraits.
The wedding reception took place at Shenley Cricket Club. Their marquee featured Christina and Gibs’s 4ft lit up initials on the dance floor as well as beautiful baby pink and blue table decor which matched the bridesmaid’s dresses.
It was a bright and sunny day, just perfect for photos. While the guests hung out at the bar, we took the family photos, and in the early evening, I have kidnapped the newlyweds for one more round of portraits. My favourite photo from our couples session is definitely the one taken during sunset or what I like to call it – the magic hour. Christina and Gibs looked like models! Check it out below!
Dream Team
Venue – Shenley Cricket Club
Florist – Heaven Scent
Cake – Jackie’s Cakes
Are you planning to get married at Shenley Cricket Club? I am taking bookings now for 2021 and 2022 , so if you are looking for a wedding photographer in Hertfordshire do not hesitate and contact me, I look forward to getting to know you!
WoodBerry Woodlands - Beth and Cath
IF YOU’RE PLANNING A WEDDING AT WOODBERRY WETLANDS IN LONDON, YOU’LL LOVE THIS WEDDING FOR INSPIRATION!
Beth and Cath got married at Stoke Newington Town Hall in London with spectacular décor and design. It was such a happy day, and even the weather played ball!
The Wedding
The ceremony was a wonderful service in a beautiful town hall in North London. During the ceremony, they had several beautiful readings from friends and family. It was lovely and also emotional for everyone attending. After the service, everyone celebrated the newlyweds with summery yellow confetti showers!
The Reception
On arrival to Woodberry Wetlands, I took Beth and Cath for a stroll around the like to take their couple portraits. Oh, they were so cute! Just as we have finished, the guests have already arrived on the grounds, only in time for prosecco o’clock!
WoodBerry Wetlands is really peaceful and secluded and is one of the loveliest places to get married and/or hold your wedding reception in London. The venue offers a marquee – and there so many incredible backdrops that are perfect for photos. A place like no other!
After the meal and many hilarious speeches, it was time for the evening party to kick off. The first dance was accompanied by a live band which was so good they have kept the dancefloor busy till the very end of the night!
If you are planning to have your wedding at WoodBerry Wetlands and are still looking for your person to create and preserve those precious memories, let’s talk straight away! I am already taking bookings for 2022 and got even some dates left for 2021. I look forward to hearing all those fantastic plans and ideas you have for your WoodBerry Wetlands wedding day!
Suppliers
Wedding Venue: Stoke Newington Town Hall
Reception Venue: WoodBerry Wetlands
Cheryl and Jonny at Lythe Hill Hotel
LYTHE HILL HOTEL WEDDING | HERTFORDSHIRE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | KAY ZIEBA PHOTOGRAPHY
Cheryl and Jonny got married at Lythe Hill Hotel, which is a modern hotel in Haslemere with a lake view. It was such a fun day, and the sun shone all day long!
I have met Cheryl and the girls in the morning at the Lythe Hill Hotel Haslemere in Surrey. They were just having a pleasant and relaxed morning full of giggles and prosecco to celebrate the perfect morning. Halfway through, little Darcy who’s been getting ready with Jonny came to keep us company in the final touch-ups. I think it is safe to say that she completely stole the show (Sorry Cheryl!! :).
The ceremony
The wedding took place at St Mary’s Church, which was only a short drive away. Cheryl arrived with her dad, and the ceremony began. She had the most outstanding gown I have ever seen from Morilee by Madeline Gardner. Jonny scrubbed well too, and both of them just looked incredible. After they have promised to love each other forever and ever, their guests have welcomed the newlyweds with confetti showers!
The reception
For the wedding reception, we have all returned to the Lythe Hill Hotel in Haslemere, which was beautifully decorated with pink blush details.
The day was gorgeous with the sun shining all day. Just perfect for the welcome drinks by the lake.
Right after the dinner, I’ve spotted the most amazing light (Hello golden hour!), and I couldn’t resist it but to take Cheryl and Jonny our for their couple portraits! I must admit it was the best thing we did. The light was so warm and beautiful with sun flares. Just perfect.
The evening kicked off with cutting the most epic cake to the date and the first dance, which was a good old traditional wedding shuffle. They finished off the night with lots of crazy dancing and air guitar shows!
Thank you Sophie who second shoot for me on the day! You were amazing !
Suppliers
Venue: www.lythehill.co.uk
Dress: www.morilee.com
Rings: www.ernestjones.co.uk
Loved looking at this wedding? Are you looking to get married at Lythe Hill Hotel? Are you looking for a photographer to capture your perfect day? Then you don’t need any more reasons to get in touch with me! I’d love to hear from you.
Milling Barn Wedding in Autumn
MILLING BARN WEDDING | HERTFORDSHIRE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | KAY ZIEBA PHOTOGRAPHY
Emma and Lee got married in October at the beautiful Milling Barn. It is one of the most beloved Hertfordshire Wedding venues – in Throcking, near Buntingford. They have planned to have this very relaxed reception with a great party in the evening.
Getting ready
I have met the girls in the morning at Milling Barn’s Bridal Suite in their full swing of getting ready. Emma was just having her make up done, and the girls were mingling about. Lee and this team got ready at Bell Bridge House. It was a relaxed morning for them too, and it was only 5 minutes away from their wedding venue.
The ceremony
Their ceremony at the Dairy Barn was beautiful and sweet. I loved all the little deco details from petals on the floor to the ivy and fairy lights on the wooden ceiling panels. During the service their little, Florence came to join them to make sure her parents do their part correctly. This was absolutely heart-melting.
The reception
After the ceremony, we have welcomed the newlyweds with confetti showers. The reception took place inside the Milling Barn, decorated in a rustic style which is just perfect for the interiors. On the balcony, they also had colossal L O V E letters, it all looked and felt so romantic. After the meal, we sneaked for the golden hour warm lights portraits which was a fantastic call. We have managed to take stunning photographs which I think they will cherish for a long time.
During the speeches, everybody cried from laughter. Every single talk was so special and personal. The evening started with a round of shots for the guest, dreamy first dance and the bouquet toss.
A super cute Tewin Bury Farm Wedding
A SUPER CUTE TEWIN BURY FARM WEDDING
I was super excited when Steph and Matt have emailed me regarding their wedding at Tewin Bury Farm. They were after having a very relaxing day, surrounded by their best friends and family. Oh, and I was offered half of the cake, which I obviously couldn’t resist! (No cake got hurt – I promise!)
Tewin Bury Farm Wedding Day
I’ve met Stephanie and the girls at Tewin Bury Farm just in time to capture all the pretty details and Steph getting ready. I was such a warm and beautiful day, just perfect for them. Her amazing bridesmaids helped Steph to put her stunning silver wedding dress on. Oh, It was just one of a kind! Once all dressed and ready, her two beautiful little boys popped by to say hello. Step’s dad then came over, perfectly timed to give his daughter away.
The ceremony
They have opted for their ceremony to take place at Tewin Bury Farm’s Garden. It was a beautiful service with a heartwarming reading. They have also asked one of their sons to be their ring bearer – super cute if you ask me! After the ceremony, Steph and Matt walked down the aisle together followed by the bridal party and said their hello’s to everyone. Let’s also not forget the confetti magic!
The reception
The wedding reception took place at the Stable Barn at Tewin Bury Farm, all decorated with personal photographs and gypsophila flowers and rustic ornaments. Steph and Matt have really made the barn look amazing and cosy, which was everything they have hoped for.
We have done all the formal (and not so formal) photos quickly to let Steph and Matt hang out with their guests and enjoy The music played by Bridge Strings.
Straight after everyone was called in to sit down, the guests have welcomed the newlyweds, and the speeches have started. All the funny stories which made everybody giggle a lot! After the meal, we have snacked out for couple portraits with just the two of them, but it wasn’t too long before the bridal crew found us and joined in!
After we have got back, it was the time to cut the wedding cake and start off the party with Mr and Mrs Brynjolfsson First dance! The dance floor was on fire!
Are you planning to get married at the Tewin Bury Farm? I would love to hear from you! Contact me today x
Cotswolds wedding at Blackwell Grange – Daniella and Karl
A SUPER HOT SUMMER WEDDING WITH CLOSE FRIENDS AND FAMILY AT BLACKWELL GRANGE
When Daniella and Karl first got in touch with me about their Blackwell Grange wedding in Cotswolds, I was so excited – they had a vision for their big day to be relaxed and full of fun and games! They seemed like the loveliest people, and I couldn’t wait to shoot their wedding!
Getting ready
I rocked up at The Potting Shed at Blackwell Grange on the early morning of 25th July, where Daniella was getting prepared, and it was a real pleasure because everyone was in a good mood. Once she got ready, Daniella looked stunning and with remarkable hair and make-up looked almost like Daenerys from Games Of thrones! Karl and his crew decided to suit up at the comfort of Daniella and Karls brand new home, which was only a short drive away.
The ceremony
The wedding took place at Blackwell Grange, and it was such a romantic ceremony at their Thatch Barn. Daniella’s dad has walked her down the aisle with the veil over her face. It was a beautiful detail to go with her sequin dress. After the ceremony, they walked down the aisle together, and once they have left the barn, the confetti showers have taken place!
The reception
The wedding reception took place at the Orchard Barn at Blackwell Grange in Cotswolds, which they’d decorated with flowers and wooden ornaments. It was just pure beauty.
It was a beautifully sunny and warm day, which was everything the couple had wished for.
While the guests hung around drinking famous Pimm’s, we wandered around the venue doing fun and creative portraits. My favourite photo from our day portrait session is probably one in between the apple trees because is shows how perfect Daniella and Karl are for each other. During the golden hour, we have sneaked for those romantic and warm lights which the couple counted on!
During the reception, they had an amazing live guitarist singling all the great songs, and everyone loved them. After the meal there were a few speeches, then the couple had their first dance, and the DJ had kicked off the party.
Suppliers
Venue: www.blackwellgrange.co.uk
Dress: www.thecotswoldfrockshop.co.uk
Shoes: www.next.co.uk
Grooms outfit: Hammond and Co
Groomsmen outfit: www.marcdarcy.co.uk
Flowers: www.lisadrinkwaterflowers.co.uk
Cake: Rachel’s Cupcakes
Hair and Make-Up: www.makeupbymakemyday.co.uk
Music: www.dangreenaway.com