Michelle and Mario in Barcelona

Last year I received an email from a bride looking for a photographer for her wedding which was to take place in Barcelona - I jumped at the chance and was happily surprised to discover that Michelle and I used to be next door neighbours during our teenage years (my married name threw her off as we haven't seen each other for years). I think we spent the first wedding meeting chatting more about old times than the wedding itself!

Having never been to Barcelona before Michelle and Mario sorted out all the accomodation and flight details and provided me with a city guide with all the venue locations marked out. It had been decided that myself and my second photographer, Ilona, would travel out the day before the wedding to settle in before the big day - it's  a good job they sorted out additional backage allowance for us on the flight cos with all the additional camera equipment taken we wouldn't have had room for clothes! Not that we actually needed most of the things we took but better safe than sorry!

Friday 6th August dawned glorious and sunny with temperatures in the mid 30s. We had most of the day to explore the city since the ceremony wasn't set til 6pm so we wandered around seeing the sights before heading across town to meet Michelle at her hotel. It was great meeting her family again and everyone was laughing and smiling - I know it seems a strange thing to say about a wedding day since all are happy, but this was a truly HAPPY occassion and Michelle didn't stop smiling throughout the day, she was a fantastic bride and was going to enjoy every moment of the day.

Another taxi to the church which was located in the parc de la ciudadela, fortunately we had scouted it out the day before since the taxi driver didn't know where it was! Mario arrived with his best man and ushers followed by the bridesmaids shortly after. At this point everyone was moved inside before Michelles car turned up.

A beautiful service was held in a stunning church, the confetti was thrown as the couple left the building and then we headed across the park to a fantastic fountain where we did a few shots with the bridal party and Michelle and Mario before all getting on a bus to head off to the reception.

Drinks and canapes were served to all and with the early evening sun the temperatures were pleasant and not too hot. Speeches were done before the meal to allow the guys to relax and enjoy the food. The best man and the brides father had everyone in stitches with their speeches and I've not laughed as much for ages- you think you've heard them all before but some still surprise you.

A spanish wedding cake was cut then the first dance followed - nothing slow and smoochy for these two as they let loose with a fun and fast dance together which got everyone else up and joining in. We finished the night off with some shots of the two of them outdoors with the vine covered venue lit up behind them. The party finished at 1am when we all headed back to hotels in taxis.

This was a spectacular wedding and I hope Michelle and Mario had as much fun as everyone else did - they certainly looked like it. An extra day to explore the city on the Saturday and then we were all on the same flight home on Sunday afternoon - where it's done nothing but rain since!!!

Here's a sneak peak at some of the pics from the day. Enjoy!!