It’s both an honour and added pressure in equal measure when you get asked to shoot a wedding of another photographer.
Luckily for me, Grant and Danielle are both the absolutely nicest people. They made me feel so very welcome and at ease from the start.
Their Highden Estate marquee wedding in South Downs National Park was one I will always remember for the amazing crowd and unparalleled dancing.
The Highden Estate venue
The Highden Estate can be found behind Windlesham House School in the village of Washington, near Pulborough and is part of a working farm. The family work really hard to maintain the estate and have been busy setting up their venue for events just like Grant and Dani’s wedding.
The Denman family proudly own the estate and have successfully managed its land for over 80 years. The estate covers nearly 1,000 acres of historic woodland and rolling fields.
Here you are able to enjoy complete privacy and tranquillity with wonderful views from the Isle of Wight to London. The Estate offers a beautiful backdrop for any occasion and is home to an impressive walled garden, fields and a forest school.
Scottish elements
As Grant comes from Scotland, there were several Scottish elements included in the day. The groom and groomsmen all wore kilts, some for the first time. This made for some very funny moments during the day.
On top of that, the couple organised ceilidh dancing for the evening party. If I can base my opinion on Scottish weddings on Grant and Dani’s wedding then I absolutely want to shoot more!
Highden Estate wedding reception
The couple wed in a church in the picturesque Sussex village of Arundel. After an emotional ceremony, everyone travelled across to the Highden Estate in the scenic South Downs for the wedding reception.
This was my first Highden Estate marquee wedding but I can’t imagine the place looking any better than it did that day. With a patch of wild meadow flowers, a small orchard full with ripened fruit and plenty of space for mingling and games it was the most beautiful setting.
Wedding party at Highden Estate
The entire day was so fun and joyful. It was easy to see how loved Dani and Grant are. The evening party was on another level, however.
They had a traditional ceilidh band playing and teaching everyone how to dance ceilidh. After Dani and Grant opened the dancefloor, everyone joined in.
It was an incredible atmosphere and all the hanging fairy lights inside the marquee made for a perfect backdrop. I don’t think I have ever taken this many photos of dancing at a wedding before.
