Castle Coch & Celynen Collieries Memorial Hall Wedding

We feature the lovely wedding of Cerys and Gavin which was captured by Jason Parsons.

Cerys and Gavin reached out to me last year to document their wedding, including the ceremony at Castle Coch, a medieval-style building with foundations dating back to 1081. The reception was held at Celynen Collieries Workmen’s Memorial Hall, built in 1923 to commemorate the 75 men from the small town of Newbridge who died in the Great War.

Do tell us about the couple:
Cerys and Gavin went to secondary school together but weren’t in a relationship at that time. When Cerys was seventeen, she worked as a barmaid at a rugby club where Gavin played youth rugby. Cerys’ boss, aware of their potential interest in each other, always arranged for her to work when Gavin was there. And I guess the rest is history!

Please tell us a little bit about the day and how it went:
I was commissioned to document the wedding from the ceremony onwards into the evening. Everything about the day was magical, just like the fairytale castle itself, from the rings being held in a Harry Potter book to the princess bride’s dress.

During the ceremony, emotions were high, and tears flowed, especially from the bride’s father, who clearly loved his daughter deeply as he gave her away. It’s fascinating to observe the range of emotions and characters at different weddings, and this one was no exception, especially with the Welsh passions and emotions involved.

Do tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Jason Parsons, a documentary wedding photographer based in Cardiff, South Wales. I have been taking pictures since I was a teenager, about 30 years ago, but I only acquired a professional camera when my first son (of five children) was born 13 years ago. It’s clear to me that my children have been my main source of inspiration for my photography, as well as shaping my style.

How would you describe your photography style?
My style is a natural, documentary approach. When working, I strive to interfere as little as possible and let the day unfold naturally, capturing special and candid moments between the bride and groom, family, and guests. I believe the couple would want to see others enjoying their day as much as themselves. Often, I aim to be as unobtrusive as possible, with many clients and guests saying, “I didn’t even know he was there.” This is the way I prefer to work, unless formal shots are required, of course.

What did you love about the day?
One of the aspects I loved about the day was the overwhelming love the father had for his daughter, the bride. Even though she might not be moving far away, it was the realisation that his daughter had grown up and was no longer a little girl. Marriage is such an important stage in our lives that many people today may not fully appreciate or might take for granted.

Further Reading

• Modern & Minimal Anthurium Filled Wedding in White & P
• Relaxed & Natural Kent Farm Barn Wedding & Embroidered G
• Pretty & Floral Art Wedding Ideas Inspired by Monet