When Dan and Claire told me they were having a music inspired wedding and were really looking forward to a big dance fest. I did an internal fist pump in the air. Yes I loved them instantly! Throw into the mix the gorgeous and quirky East Quay venue and you have one awesome wedding.

Whitstable rawness

East Quay, also known as the Lobster Shack. Is one of my favourite venues. I’m probably bias having lived in Whitstable for a number of years but I just love everything about it. It’s positioned directly on the beach and sandwiched between a working harbour and brightly coloured beach huts. The industrial surroundings give it an urban feel and the ever-changing scenery of the pebble beach makes for the most amazing backdrop. If you’re lucky you will also experience the best sunset. Claire and her team run the venue meticulously with excellent attention to detail. Whether you choose to dress it in your theme or leave it in its natural glory the venue will never fail to deliver.

The girls just love to hang out

Whilst Dan and his friends were busy applying the final details to the venue, Claire had booked a boutique mews house for her bridal prep. Claire and her team of bridesmaids were like the cool kids at school. Tunes pumping, prosecco flowing, lots of laughter and her best friend and chief bridesmaid only happened to be the international shoe designer Sophie Webster! Amazing, check out these shoes.

A beautiful ceremony

Claire and Dan chose to marry at All Saints Church in Whitstable. A very grand and welcoming church at the heart of the community. I think this completely sums them up as couple. Strong values and beliefs with a full religious ceremony but then walking out of the church to hardcore drum ‘n’ bass. The church grounds was a perfect backdrop for their group photographs and a very long confetti tunnel marked their exit to East Quay.

The autumn light

Autumn and winter weddings can more challenging because of the shorter days and changing weather. We knew we wanted to make the most of the beautiful beach and surrounding area for their couple pictures and in Whitstable you have to time this to precision. Claire and Dan were really relaxed about this and completely happy for me to grab them after their meal to make the most of the evening light. It didn’t let me down. A very still, pinky hue illuminated their faces and bounced of the sea. Just perfect.

Time to party

Oh yes and they knew how to party! Bob Marley’s, One Love started the night off with their first dance. After this the DJ’s spun the tunes all preselected by Dan and Claire and representative of their lives together.

Wicked wedding guys and thank you for looking after me so well. If you’re thinking of getting married at East Quay I would love to talk to you.

Clare x