When you're planning a wedding, choosing a photographer can feel like an enormous decision.

There are hundreds of photographers to choose from. Different styles, different approaches, different collections and, of course, very different levels of experience.

Beautiful photographs are obviously important.

But there is something else I believe couples should consider when choosing the person who will photograph one of the most important days of their lives:

Experience.

I've been photographing weddings for 35 years.

During that time, I've photographed hundreds of weddings in churches, castles, country houses, registry offices, hotels, barns and some of the most beautiful wedding venues across County Durham, the North East and beyond.

And if those years have taught me anything, it's this:

No two weddings ever go exactly according to plan.

Some wedding mornings are beautifully calm, and Vanessa's was exactly that.

I arrived at Vanessa's Mam and Dad's house at 11am to photograph some portraits before heading to the ceremony. I was greeted at the door by two very determined, very yappy little chihuahuas who made sure I was properly announced, followed by a much more dignified greeter - Dolce, Vanessa's own dog. A dark grey miniature poodle with a perfect pom-pom haircut and the friendliest nature, Dolce stuck close to Vanessa all morning.

Inside the house, it was complete calm. No rush, no chaos - just a quiet, happy feeling of everything being exactly where it needed to be. Vanessa looked absolutely stunning and so relaxed. We started with some portraits of Vanessa on her own, taking our time in the lovely natural light at home. I love starting the day like this, before the day speeds up. It gives us a chance to create something really soft and natural.

I arrived at the Radisson Blu in a light drizzle. The morning was overcast but thankfully not cold, and after gathering my camera equipment I made my way up to the bridal suite on the fourth floor.

When I walked through the door, I was shocked.

It was totally calm!

Now, there was a very good reason for my surprise.

I had met Casey about a week earlier to run through the photography arrangements for the wedding and, at that meeting, she had been in what I can only describe as full panic mode!

Set amongst the wonderful countryside of the Scottish Borders, near Hawick, Branxholm Park is one of those wedding venues that immediately makes an impression when you arrive. Surrounded by woodland, lawns and beautiful grounds, it feels wonderfully secluded — almost as though the whole place has been handed over to you for the day.

The estate has a fascinating history stretching back centuries. The Branxholm area has long been associated with the powerful Scott family, whose influence is woven deeply into the history of the Scottish Borders. The original Branxholm Castle was an important stronghold of the Scotts of Buccleuch, one of the great Border families, in a part of Scotland once famous for its turbulent history and the legendary Border Reivers.

The Branxholm we see today is a rather more peaceful place!

The historic house sits beautifully within its extensive grounds and combines the character and grandeur you would expect from a Scottish country estate with the relaxed atmosphere of an exclusive wedding venue.