Kathryn & Ben

Morning & Preparations

Preparations for the day took place at Cooling Castle Barn – one of Kent’s most iconic wedding venues. The atmosphere was calm and joyful as family and friends gathered in the gardens for the outdoor ceremony. The soft sound of a string quartet filled the air, setting the tone for a relaxed and elegant afternoon.

Outdoor Ceremony in the Gardens

The ceremony was led by Julia and Sandra, held beneath the open sky surrounded by the historic walls of Cooling Castle Barn. Two beautiful readings added a personal touch to the occasion – Some Things Go Together by Charlotte Zolotow and Your Personal Penguin by Sandra Boynton. Both perfectly captured Kathryn and Ben’s warmth and humour as a couple.

Their handwritten vows were heartfelt and full of character. Ben promised to “love, honour and cherish” Kathryn “at all times, in all places and in all ways,” while Kathryn vowed to love him “more than Piella – even on days you burn the dinner.” A mix of laughter and emotion rippled through the guests as they exchanged rings and sealed their marriage with a kiss.

Reception & Speeches

Guests moved into the main barn for the wedding breakfast, surrounded by rustic beams, soft lighting and the gentle notes of the string quartet. The speeches later that evening were a perfect blend of humour, emotion and storytelling.

Father of the Bride – Martin

Martin’s speech was warm, hilarious and full of heart. He began by recalling Kathryn’s dramatic entrance into the world – born in a toilet, leading to her middle name Louise (“because she was born in the loo”). Childhood stories followed, including her habit of running around the garden naked, her obsession with roast dinners (famously eating 40 roast potatoes in one sitting), and her love for You’ve Got Mail – a film that inspired their father-daughter dance later that night.

He spoke proudly about Kathryn’s determination through school despite dyspraxia and dyslexia, celebrating how she’s grown into an incredible teacher. There were plenty of laughs too – especially when Martin told the story of Ben’s “science project,” lovingly caring for what he thought were tadpoles, only to discover they were mosquito larvae. The speech ended on a high with Martin’s trademark humour – gifting the couple a pair of “sexy pants” as part of a long-standing family tradition.

The Groom

Ben opened his speech with the line, “My wife and I,” to cheers from the guests. His words were both funny and deeply sincere. He thanked the bridal party – especially Maid of Honour Natalie – and told the story of Kathryn somehow managing to get lost in Vatican City, prompting bemused police to tell him, “You are very lucky!”

He shared gratitude to both families – to Kathryn’s mum Jo for her warmth and baking, and to Martin and Vicky for welcoming him so openly (with the unforgettable plughole haircut story and that infamous mankini incident). He then turned to his own dad, Colin, thanking him for teaching kindness, compassion, and the belief that almost anything can be fixed with duct tape.

His closing words were pure romance – celebrating ten years together and describing Kathryn as “kind, ambitious, unintentionally hilarious, and the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.” He ended with a toast: “Eternity’s never enough.”

Best Men – Tom & Kieran

The best men kept the laughter flowing with perfectly balanced speeches. Tom shared stories from their school days – Ben’s early attempts to explain “the birds and the bees” in Year 7 science, and one memorable party involving a door, too many drinks, and a heroic clean-up operation.

Kieran followed with tales from university and the stag do (featuring go-karting, paintball and more than a few sore heads), and the strong bond they’ve built over the years. Together they finished with a light-hearted toast to “the bride and groom.”

Evening Celebrations

As the sun set, guests gathered for the cake cutting followed by a touching first dance between Kathryn and Ben. The father-daughter dance came soon after – a nod to their shared love of You’ve Got Mail – before the evening gave way to laughter, dancing and celebration in true Cooling Castle Barn style.

A Personal Note

This was one of those weddings that reminded us why we love what we do – genuine, full of heart, and surrounded by family who truly care for one another. It was also a pleasure as always to work alongside Nicky Tulip from N Photography – a brilliant friend and collaborator who always brings warmth and creativity to every shoot.

Congratulations again to Kathryn and Ben – thank you for trusting us to capture your day.