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"We're getting married at the Railway Station..." Imagine what a conversation starter that would have been for Annie and Ryan when they announced their venue of choice! I know I was pretty excited. When this fun loving couple got in touch with me to see if I was available to shoot their day, they were eager to tell me all about their plans so far, not the average itinerary for a wedding, but a whole lot of fun! We met a few time to discuss the timing for the day, there was so much to think about and this was the first wedding I'd shot at a railway station, on the platform. The day went swimmingly; starting on the platform of the station at Pickering, their friends watched their emotional exchange of vows to the sound of a live pianist. A confetti filled entrance lead them in to the speeches where they listened to Annie's Dad's proud memories of her growing up in to a young, determined woman along with his first memories of Ryan and his admiration for him so far. We also heard some rather amusing stories about the Groom, for his best man. For the journey to begin, everyone boarded to old Locomotive, where they tucked into afternoon tea and vino. Annie and Ryan enjoyed sometime to themselves at the back of the train in a period, wooden-clad carriage-very stylish. They then roamed up and down the train chatting with their guests before they jumped off the train at Grosmont to have quick beverage at the local pub. On e the return journey to the station at Pickering Annie and Ryan's wedding party enjoyed the sweet part of their afternoon tea whilst watching the couple cut their cake, as the train meandered past an incredible amount of beautiful scenery. They then embarked the final part of their journey, even though the bus was a little late (I do recall something about someone booking it for the wrong time? Haha) everyone was still in high spirits though, looking forward to spending time with the evening guest's at The Worsley Arms in Hovingham. With such an action packed day their was no time for anyone to twiddle their thumbs, the staff at the Railway Station in Pickering were super making sure Annie and Ryan's day went by without any hiccups and Vince the Toastmaster (Annie's friend & past colleague) did a sterling job of keeping everything in check even afterwards, at the hotel in Hovinham he made sure everything was in order. Here's some from their engagement session... Credits to: Photography, Anoif Photography NYMR Pickering, Wedding Venue A Perfect day, Wedding Dress Chair and Train decor, Margret Stainburn Cake, Abi Fisher The toastmaster, Vince the Toastmaster The Worsley Arms, Hovingham, 2nd wedding venue.

Dreaming the dream, I have found, is very different to living the dream! 2019 was a funny year, not what I expected: there were highs and there were unexpected lows. Although there was the initial excitement, there was definitely an inward anxiety of real worry. After spending four years building my business up to a place where I felt confident enough in myself to just go out there and be a full-time family/wedding photographer, I finally handed in my notice at the day job to leave at Christmas 2018. So from January last year, I was a photographer, no more hiding behind the day job: when people asked what I did, I had to say a photographer, which in itself felt really weird. I’m really not sure why. I'm pleased to say now it feels really normal; but losing a regular wage puts pressure on you. How many jobs I had booked in the diary never used to be an issue but it soon became my obsession. During January, February, March and April I spent my time delving in to my website, revamping it by pulling it to pieces and totally restructuring it. I learnt so, so much about headings, titles and SEO. I gave it the ultimate makeover and I was super proud, I loved the way it worked and how it looked-I still do by all accounts. When all was done I launched it. I waited and waited; I stressed and stressed. Why weren’t the bookings coming flooding in like I’d expected them to? Self doubt - it’s the worst! Looking back now I realise things take time and finally, when wedding season began and my work was all over social media again, the bookings began to come in. Thank goodness! This is the power of sharing work in different places, it’s incredible. So thanks to you lovely couples and families for agreeing for me to do just that, you’re empowering a local girl’s business. You’re all amazing. From January to December last year, I was lucky enough to have met and captured 18 couples’ love stories, each one of them moving, beautiful and perfect in their own way. I love people; they’re rather fascinating, so getting to do this as my full-time job has been extremely precious. Along with the weddings, I’ve been part of documenting families at each and every stage. From birth, all the way through childhood to the teen years and beyond - to being happily married for 50 years and more, with several generations alongside them. That’s special isn’t it! I’ve honestly loved every minute I spent with you all. I’m not sure how many photos I’ve taken altogether but I’ve know I’ve edited and presented around 20,000 images to couples, families and local businesses. I’ve also travelled too: from literally my doorstep (there’s so many beautiful places to capture people in my village) to the rolling, sun-dappled Tuscan hills, in Italy. It’s been quite a year. I’d have to say my highlights of the year have definitely been watching two close friends become one with their partners. Along with a childhood friend too, I grew up with Richard, so when he and Katie asked me to capture their day I was so chuffed! I always say my favourite part of capturing any wedding is the part when the Bride walks down the aisle, linked by the arm, to the person they’ve chosen to give them away. It doesn’t matter how close you are to that Bride she always looks at you from that brief moment in time, with a nervous smile. Ah, I love that moment and it never tires! Here’s some of those moments from their weddings. I know, I got a little carried away! Other key points of this year have been attending SNAP Photo Fest. This was incredible: a whole week of photography workshops and sharing ideas. I got to meet some incredible photographers; people who, when I look at their work, I think WOW! And here’s the thing, they’re just normal people, like you or I. They’re looking to up skill and be inspired all the time too, just like myself. I also completed my farming project which I’m super proud of. Following the tips of a fellow photographer from SNAP, I contacted a local newspaper to see if they’d be interested in featuring it in there: they were and they did! I couldn’t believe it got a mention on the front page and had a double page spread inside. Here's some from my Farm Project I mentioned... Unfortunately, 2019 marked the end of a chapter for my family. We lost my Nanna just 2 months after her 90thbirthday. She’d been very poorly for the last 8 years after an accident; nevertheless, it was an extremely emotional time - we were very close when she was well. She was a passionate Christian lady, she’d preach at her local church, to her friends and to her family. Her heart was good- full of love and pride and I can truly say, she’s one of the most inspiring people I’ve met to date. She was such a character too and although I have always visited her regularly during her last 8 years of her ill health, sometimes I’m not sure she really knew who I was and in the last 3 years she was unable to communicate or feed herself. We all know she’s at peace now, but it was a tricky end to the year. In spite of that though, I want to honour her memory, so I have a little project in mind to do so. Over the next few weeks, I’m hoping to pull some material together to kick it off. I love a personal project- it’s a license to do whatever the heck I like with my photography. After working in a school for 9 years, I’m a firm believer in freedom and time for experimentation and learning. If you follow me on social media, hopefully you’ll see some content soon. What else is happening in 2020 then? Well, I already have 18 weddings booked in for this year; which leaves room for only a few more. I’m really looking forward to capturing these couple’s days for them, meeting their friends and family and also hearing about, then seeing their ideas come to life. I’ve also been given the heads up by 4 past clients, that they’ll be needing a newborn session at some point in the near future, which is super exciting! One aspiration for this year is to document a few more local business’ and meet other local ‘creatives’. I’m looking forward to attending a Chris Chambers Workshop at Allerton Castle to learn some new skills with flash (usually I shy away from flash). I’m also capturing one of Mum’s oldest friend’s weddings and one of my college friends too. I’m noticing a lot of my weddings this year are local to me which means I won’t be spending as much time on the road, so fingers crossed I’ll see a bit more of my friends and family. Here's a few local business' I captured this year... It’s been hard to choose just a few but here are some of my highlights from 2019.

Ok, this project started way back in June 2018, after being at the photography show in Birmingham, where I was totally blown away and inspired by Helen Bartlett a London-based family photographer. This is when I decided to embark on something so I could experiment and develop my skills. Day 1 Wellies at the back door. Hmm...a familiar sight from childhood days, are they Lawrence Borthwick's or my Papa's? Wellies at the back door filled my heart with warmth as a child knowing my Dad was finally home! I know my niece Lily will feel this too one day. Day 98: Two peas in a pod, these two! they are even observing identically. Time to harrow and get rid of that unwalkable terrain that resulted from the ploughing, ready to seed the land again. New Years Eve at Broats Farm, we spent it all together, with a few drinks and lots and lots of games! I really liked the way that Helen captured families doing what they do best - just being themselves! I admired the fact that Helen did what she's most passionate about and was inspired that there is a booming market for this style of photography amongst families. This natural, relaxed and playful style is also what I love to do best, so I'm pretty pleased about this realisation. Day 279: Two new family members! An extremely fond part of our childhood; Lawrence, Laura and Richard, do you remember Em? She followed us everywhere and even helped us keep the kids (baby goats) in check. What a lamb! Meet Everest and Callie, Broats Farm's new pet lambs, they are just the most adorable things ever! Nat and Lily were enjoying feeding them tonight, I'm sure they'll gather some grand memories with these two too. Day 196: So close. We had a lovely half hour or so encouraging Charlie to get his legs in to action, backwards and forwards he went with the biggest ever grin on his face! 315: "Yikes! I think I might be about the land on the floor." Sometimes though, you can get so caught up in what you "think" your client wants; especially, when you're just starting out, I always forget to do what I love most and what I'm best at, it's easy to be influenced by trends. An inspirational woman once stated the obvious to me, “If you want to do a certain type or style of photography, then make sure that's what you market, don’t put what you think everyone wants you to do on your website or you FB page if you're not so good at that or really just don't enjoy doing it.": She said, "Eventually as your brand develops, you’ll find people will book you because of your unique style.” What great advice, but you have to be brave to diversify from the normal, it's not for everyone and that's something you have to learn to accept. Before I took this advice on board, it was difficult and at times stressful, wondering if I was going to do a good enough job and get exactly what they people were after. There’s pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and there’s trying to be something you're not, which is exhausting. After hearing these words, I decided I should take her advice and try it out. That was when I truly felt I could do what I wanted, still if I wanted to do that I also needed to have the portfolio I was proud of to showcase it. So this is how my idea of capturing my brother’s recently purchased farm came about. I needed to capture the little things around me like I would at a wedding, my aim was to treat family shoots like a wedding, because I truly believed this added to the personality of the session and the people being captured. When they viewed their gallery it should help them to see the best bits about them and their family. Another thing I'm drawn to, is that I like to always be where the action is! So my brief for this project was exactly the above, my dream brief! Because I knew this would take place over along period of time (a whole year) I decided that making it mainly black and white would help stitch it together nicely. Plus, there is also the fact that…I love black and white photography too, especially when it comes to farming photos! Day 364: Harvest (Poem) We've gathered in the harvest, We've cut and saved the corn. The winter days are coming, But we'll be safe and warm. The earth was warmed with sunshine, The crop drank in the rain. We've bread to feed and warm us, When winter comes again. And when the winter's over, And springtime comes around. We'll plant next season's harvest, Seeds hidden in the ground. Each seed is like a promise, Of sunshine after the rain, Of the golden grain we hope for, When itís harvest time again. Felicity Hayes-McCoy Day 231: An extra pair of wheels. Day 306: Behind every bright light...Is a great idea! This is what Rich and Lawrence have been working hard on over the last couple of days. Lawrence's new shed will have a technical mucking out system to make things easier, it needed some serous thought though and a clever idea. They've made all the gates from scratch so it was exactly as it needs to. Day 108: Evening RaysI managed to capture these guys in their natural state from behind the yorkshire-boarding, making the most of the last summer sun Day 106 Unbalanced. The joys of owning vintage machinery and still actually using it for odd jobs, there was a pair of dual wheels when Lawrence started rolling the field. I know I shouldn't, but I am, and I can't help but have a chuckle to myself.​ Day 180: The followers. Day 102: Harrow the land. The irony of it, to grow the seeds and weed the land we harrow it, yet the meaning of the word is so negative: to distress, torture and wound. When you think about it, thats exactly what the harrow does to the earths surface. And so it began, I took photos of the farm every time I was there, which increased immensely during the 12-month period of my project, not only did I want to capture the little changes in the seasons but the work that happened over the them seasons and how family life fitted around everything, or not, as sometimes the case maybe. Growing up on a farm has got to be one of the best things you can experience, even so it doesn’t come without sacrifices, during harvest when everyone is busy, busy family life can be thinly lived. I remember as a child sometimes not seeing Dad for days on end, it wasn’t a problem, we were used to it, still it did make the time we had with him more precious than ever! When he was there, we hung around him like bees around a sunflower and pestered him to death. We probably drove him mad! This was when Mum managed to get a brief break from being a ‘single parent’ and had an extra pair of eyes to help her keep us out of mischief too. I have found that over the time of my creating and completing the project, I have slowly had the confidence to incorporate it into my family shoots more, I always advise my families to book the longer sessions, because you achieve to best ‘lifestyle’ photography this way. My couples/families, especially children need to feel comfortable around me before they will interact naturally with each other, or “forget that I’m there,” my favourite saying. I have found the feedback astonishing, I love the reactions my families have when they see their images for the first time. Day 63 Follow my lead. Lots of fun walking the dogs. Steve can't go on footpaths yet, until he's had all his jabs, so a wander up Broats' drive is just the ticket! Day 301: Cousins How long has this project been going on for? And this is my first even portrait of the 4 of them together, I can't believe it! What a bunch of gorgeousness they all are. :) There has always got the odd portrait! Day 248: Zzzzzz...Oh look here, what a familar sight... Pappa is asleep with his cup of tea at hand. Haha. Sometimes he wake himself up when he pours it on his leg! Poor Paps, I have no idea though how he sleeps upright on a kitchen chair. Day 260: "What can I get you?" Now, I have to say this is definitely the type of shop keeper I enjoying coming across: eager, happy and helpful, she's pregnant to you know! On a rainy afternoon there's nothing better than playing shops with your big cousin the pair of them are so close. Day 10 Innovative. Every other farmer saw a cows water-trough; Lawrence saw an indestructable paddling pool! Day 252: Beg! Lewis is loves being with the dogs especially teaching them tricks! Day 9- Dints and Delves. They both look pretty cheerful during these ominous times, a mysterious scrub has a appeared on Lawrence's tractor's bucket, but who did it? Hmm I really can't decide... “You made us look beautiful” “Aww, they always do that face.” “It’s so us.” “You’ve captured us, how we are.” Are a few of the typical comment I get back! I love these so much, when people say things like this about my work, I feel like I’ve totally nailed it! So thank you to Broats for letting me use you like guinea pigs ;) Thanks to: Broats Farm for putting up with me for 12 months, I know Lawrence wasn't always comfortable with me taking his picture, especially when he wasn't on his tractor!

When Emily and Matthew became Mr and Mrs Britton back in May, they did so whilst making the most of everything and everyone they had around them, pulling in favours and using what they had. Emily’s nephew’s girl friend did her hair and her good friend Amanda did her makeup. She got ready at her Mum’s house surrounded by close friends and family. It was rather lively in that house on the morning of the wedding to say the least. Lots of fun though! They exchanged vows in the local church; a stones throw away, in Stamfordbridge. This is the part of the day where Matthew fondly looks back upon, “Seeing Emily walk down the aisle in church was my favourite part of the day.” It’s also where Emily got to say, “I do!” To her best friend, they are just the cutest! After the service they headed back to Matthews Dad’s caravan park, which is where the party and celebrations continued. Emily, her mum and Matthew’s mum were the trio behind the décor in the marque, working with shades of blue, white roses and a bit of glitzy bling to liven the space up along with some extra helpers to pull it off. It was here they enjoyed a hog roast and drinks with the rest of the guests. Out side they had a bale seating area (supplied by her sisters boyfriend) for guests to enjoy the evening sunshine. The campsite was a delight to capture the couple and their guests together; it had a windmill along with a lakeside walk too, paradise! Credits: Hair and Makeup: Emily (Emily's nephew's girlfriend) and Amanda The dress: https://www.elite.gb.net Photography: www.anoifphotography.co.uk Car hire: http://www.yorkclassiccars.com Food: https://www.strensallhogroast.com/contact-us Marquee: https://www.yorkshire-marquees.co.uk

Earlier this year I got chance to go and photograph The George and Dragon Hotel in Kirbymoorside, near Helmsley. Laura and her family, who run the business were extremely friendly and welcoming, Laura’s parents bought the business 13 years ago after being attracted to the hotel by it’s unusual name and ideal location- slap-bang in the middle of York and the Yorkshire Coastline. Not only is the hotel between York and the coast it’s also sat at the base of the Yorkshire Moor where there are endless walks and sleepy villages to visit and wander around such as Hutton-le-hole. Kirbymoorside is also a market town itself, the market town offers a variety of amenities such as: a golf club, antique centre, garden centre, cafes and an art gallery along with the children’s play park and skate park, all of this all within close proximity. Since purchasing the hotel they have been continuously updating it: “We are constantly updating the bedrooms and bathrooms,”says Laura, they like to keep the establishment fresh and airy. Along with keeping busy with such things, Laura and her mother and father enjoy the people who use their hotel too, they enjoy hearing the stories that folk have to tell. They also enjoy helping them make the most their stay by sharing their local knowledge of the area. The hotel also offers a delicious lunch and dinner menu with a wide choice of well-thought out dishes, three of which Laura would recommend are the Steak, Lobster Thermidor (their chief makes the best Thermidor Sauce) and the Twice Baked Cheese Souffle. Their chief sources all of the ingredients from the field to the sea locally, using suppliers such as, Taylors of Pickering for fruit and veg, R&J for meat and Hodgsons for fish to name a few. Steak night is a Thursday, so if you enjoy a good steak why not make the most of their great deal and head to The George and Dragon for your tea. Laura and her family will be waiting to offer you a warm welcome when you arrive. Steak night is a Thursday, so if you enjoy a good steak why not make the most of their great deal and head to The George and Dragon for your tea. Laura and her family will be waiting to offer you a warm welcome when you arrive and if it's warm evening you'll be able to sit out the the colourful beer garden and absorb the rays. Photography is all by Anoif Photography www.anoifphotography.co.uk #Localbusiness #food #country

These two planned their day in less than 6 months, with Jim proposing to Zoe around Christmas time 2018. They are young, happy, blissfully in love and could see no reason to wait, so when they were able to book their chosen venue for a midweek celebration they were stoked! Zoe and Jim styled their day using complimenting pastel colours, choosing to wrap the chairs on each table with either peach, lilac, pastel pink and pale yellow sashes. They even integrated the colours of the candles and roses decorating the candle arbours in the same shades too. The room was tastefully filled with delicate colours, perfect for the time of year. After getting ready at The Old Lodge with her twin sister, two friends and mother, Zoe was ready for her brother Cameron to walk her down the aisle to meet her sole mate in the gardens of the stunning venue. The looks exchanged throughout the intimate ceremony didn’t lie, and the guests that witnessing them were precious and thoughtfully chosen. Their day was just as they had planned, small, low key but beautiful, with their gathering of friends and a relatives chatting and sipping bucks fizz in the gardens, in the sun and then enjoying a beautiful meal. Zoe’s highlight of the day: When her and Jim both walked back down the aisle as man and wife. Jim’s favourite part: When everyone was drinking and talking outside in the sun, before the meal. When I spoke to Zoe before the wedding I know she’d told me she wasn’t looking forwards to being the centre, so it was surprise to me to find that her favourite moment had been whilst walking down the aisle whilst all eyes were firmly fixed on her and Jim. Advice to other couples: Make sure your day is exactly how you want it, not how other people might like it to be. Hair: Fran Grayson Photography: Anoif Photography (Fiona Bielby) Make up Artist: Kate Rodgers Flowers: Horsleys Flowers, Malton Dress: The Waiting Room, Scarborough Rings: H. Samuels Cake: Crumbs Cakes Suites: Skopes, Hull Venue: The Old Lodge, Malton

Most people crave chocolate, cake or junk food, but Christine craved the time to sketch! Following a few years of not being particularly creative, Christine started sketching again, during her pregnancy and shortly after the birth of her son Charlie (now 4). She tells me, “It was possibly due to having a little more time to chill, which also coincided with my move from Birmingham to the pretty and inspiring countryside of North Yorkshire. It was a breath of fresh air.” She also enjoyed visiting the quaint galleries and artists in the local area, which she found inspiring too. Soon she managed to get a stall at the local crafting and farming market in Hovingham where she started to sell her prints of pencil sketches, them sketches are now forming the design of her first fabric, which features: a stag, a hare and a pheasant. After two years of market fun, Christine decided to take her business to the next level where it would naturally evolve. Christine with her current shop Christine and her husband (both ‘creatives’) have always had a bit of a dream of opening a gallery of their own and with her business of sketching and fabric design going so well, they felt the time had come. So it needed a name and Christine wanted to name it herself; one night, she sat down and made time think about what it could be called, she started linking random things together…Obviously, paper being one of Christine’s main mediums to work on she incorporated that. Then because Christine and her husband also quite like the idea of one day combining a gallery and coffee shop, keeping this in mind, she chose spoon for her second word. Paperspoon. It sounded quirky, she liked it, the name was born. Handily, Christine’s husband is a graphic designer and illustrator, so he designed the logo for her. Four years on, I’ve asked Christine what she’s most proud of; this is what she told me: “It has to be, taking a leap of faith to move to North Yorkshire. My job wasn’t what it used to be and I hated the commute, also getting pregnant was like fate as it gave us the opportunity to move to Yorkshire! Unbelievably, we sold our house within 3 days and desperately had to find a new one. We found the perfect pad, luckily, to settle our new family into. I’m also proud of my husband, he inspires me everyday and supports my crazy ideas.” Christine told me about her favourite 'make' so far, it happens to be a custom made collective range she made especially for one client. She was commissioned by one of her customers, who’s surname happens to be Heron, she asked Christine to sketch a heron for her. After completing renovations on her house, she thought it would be the perfect touch to finish it off. Christine enjoys a challenge and working directly with her clients, this one in particular has now become a friend. See for yourself what a great job Christine did of the sketch and then how a sketch can became a fabric and how fabric can dress a house… When you have two young children, a dog and a business I was intrigued to find out what keeps her going. “All the lovely feedback and comments from passers by looking into my tiny shop window, they often don’t know I’m hidden in the corner and can overhear them. This inspires me to carry on doing what I love, I’m very lucky to be able to do a job I have so much passion for, something I can thank my husband for.” Christine stocks other local crafters and artist's work in her shop too such as Periwinkle Jewellery She's turned her sketches in to products too, here are some mugs and some coasters she designed. Toiletry/makeup bags made with Christine fabric by a local seamstress. Christine is currently working on a new product range, of which she would like to be ready in time for Malton Food Festival in May. She’s also frantically working on a new creative space, where she will eventually be moving her gallery. So keep an eye on this one, things keep getting better and better! Follow her on Facebook to see how her journey carries on and visit her website www.paperspoon.co.uk to see her range of products and designs. All the photos were taken by Anoif Photography #photography #LocalArtist #interiordesign #Localbusiness

It all began with a mermaid, on sunny day at the beach with the children…Yes, it’s true, that’s where Mel got the idea of setting up a Pebble Art business. Mel loves spending days at the beach with her husband, two children and the dog and back in 2016 she and her children created their family portrait -including a mermaid- on the sand with pebbles. She enjoyed the process so much she began creating at home, sticking them down onto hardback mount and putting them in a frame. People saw them and like them. Mel began doing craft fairs to get her work out there and advertised on Facebook. Then Mel got ‘the bug,’ the more she made the more passionate she became. People would message or ask Mel if she could make X, Y and Z and she’d do it. She’s had some interesting briefs to follow and always comes up with incredible interpretations of them. Her creations are unique and truly amazing. Mel says one of the best things about what she does is: "Peoples reaction to my work is really amazing and fulfilling when I deliver them the mockup piece." I’ve watched Mel work, she’s unbelievable, you see her scanning the pebbles, shells and sea-glass, all of a sudden she’ll pick something at random and say, “this looks like a veil blowing in the wind’ or ‘this is the perfect shape for a mermaids tail.’ That’ll be her starting point, she’ll then gather other pebbles and start strategically placing them on to a surface, fiddling and manipulating them until she’s happy. The process takes a long time, her designs are delicate and precise, no two alike. She’s an organic artist for sure. To watch it come together is magical, you can see the passion she holds is 100% genuine! Mel believes the materials she works with are beautiful because that’s how Mother Nature designed and made them, so she generally leaves them in their natural state. She loves how each pebble is different and finds that sometimes they naturally lend themselves to one another to form the perfect composition. Her business has gone from strength to strength since she officially decided to go for it in 2017 I know the future will be just as rosy as long as those ideas keep flooding in. Check out Mel’s Facebook page and website to see her latest creations. www.pebblemade.co.uk Photography by Anoif Photography #portait #thestory #photos #photography #Localbusiness #LocalArtist

La Fenetre, 4 Kirkham Lane, is based in the small market town of Pickering near the town centre. Really, it's like a Tardis! La Fenetre, has a light and airy, homely feel to it as soon as you step through the door, with the ground floor's open-plan layout it makes the cottage ideal for both families and friends alike. This semi-detached property offers 3 spacious bedrooms -2 doubles and one twin- 1 family bathroom, an en-suite and a WC off the twin room. It also includes a secluded outdoor dining area, allowing you to enjoy the summer evenings. Tim bought his humble cottage 18 years ago and actually lived in it himself, so he's got first hand experience of just haw conveniently placed it is. After moving on, he kept hold of this little gem and rented it successfully on a long term basis, for a number of years. Then 2 years ago, Tim decided to carry out mayor renovations to his property, bringing it to its full potential, cleverly using every morsel of space and transforming it into a superb holiday cottage. It was important to Tim to use local suppliers where possible, his mother handmade the blinds, with fabric from Wath Court, Hovingham and he commissioned a local artist and family friend, Sue Maud, from Rillington to paint the unique sign on the front of the property. The fuel behind this transformation was Tim's parents, they've always had holiday properties. This, being located in a popular tourist destination it was a no brainer really given that Tim had always fancied running one himself. After completing the renovations with the assistance of his parents, Tim signed up with Airbnb with the desire of running it himself. He's now a super host on Airbnb with a rating of 4.9 out 5 after over 100 reviews, way to go Tim! And if you're wondering about the name 'La Fenetre' which I must admit, I was, it means 'the window' in French, Tim's friend suggested it all those years ago when it purchase the cottage due to the amount of front facing windows. I love it! #Localbusiness #Holidaylets #interiordesign #Ryedale #photography #renovationprojects

Nadia and Ross’ main aim for their day was to keep things relaxed and simple, to avoid it taking over their lives and with two kiddiewinks already, they had enough to contend with. Or this is what Nadia told me anyway; however, with just six weeks to go she bravely changed her mind on the dress and the venue. Nevertheless Nadia sticks by her decision saying, “go with your gut, it was the best decision we made.” Their new location for the celebrations turned out to be Ross’ home cricket grounds, which is perfectly surrounded by cow fields. They hired a marquee, arrange for a hog roast and pizza oven for food and then Nadia turned to the décor. She took a look on Pintrest, thought about what her friends had done at previous weddings they attended and her inspiration was born. She decided, rustic country, so she fashioned an entrance gallows out of some wood from their garden and building store, they borrowed plants from the garden and bought a few new ones too to decorate the marquee, these are now in their garden to remember their day by. Clever! They’d already planned to have a church service at Brompton-by-Sawdon, the village where Ross’ parents live and where he also plays cricket, the church was stunning with wooden parquet flooring and a candle arbor that held around 60-lit candles. It looked magnificent. They had a traditional service lead by the local vicar which was somewhat enhanced by their daughter, who decided she wanted to be with Mummy and Daddy during their vows. She held her finger up her dad’s nose as he said I do, for some moral support, like you do. This was the funniest thing ever and of course we got the obligatory photo of the event. Nadia has told me since that this is one of her best memories of the day. After the service Nadia, Ross and their youngsters walked to the cricket ground through the stunning village and past Ross’ favourite pork pie shop, Glades. There happened to be the more idyllic little bridge with a stunning willow behind, which made the most flawless place to get a few portraits before we got the venue. When arriving at the cricket grounds they enjoyed creamed scones and Prosecco whilst they listened to the speeches, this was hilariously backed up with a slideshow or two of old photos it was clear there were a lot of memories already in the congregation. This made a wonderful addition to the afternoon. After this both the boys and the girls rocked their style in the neighbouring stubble fields. Nadia’s exquisite Claire Pettibone dress from Bridal Reloved in Beverley was centre stage with it’s truly unique and ornate back details. Her girls also looked fabulous in their self-chosen dresses. Nadia’s only instruction here was to go with a pink or purple colour scheme and get what they felt comfortable in, the best brief ever and as one her maids was pretty heavily pregnant, it probably helped them all in the long run. Their country styled, autumn coloured bouquets they carried, were made with flowers that Nadia’s aunt had picked herself, from a local grower, Binnington blooms. She then wrapped and arranged them with the help of Ross’ mother, they looked impeccable against the rustic chic backdrop Nadia had created. The boys wore matching brown chinos and white shirts, with the addition of coordinating, Yorkshire Tweed braces and bow ties, they looked brilliant. Ross wore a waistcoat to distinguish him as the groom; however, this was the only difference. Credits too: Photography: Anoif Photography Flowers: Binnington Blooms The Dress: Claire Pettibone, Bridal Reloved Perfume: Gucci Rush Shoes: Debenhams Hair: Bride did her own Make up: Brides friend #Ryedale #photography #wedding #country #tweed #churchwedding #marqueereception #wildflowers

Alison Martindale, from Thornton-le-dale, set up her rather delicious catering business, The Willows Catering Co, just over 3 years ago. It’s gone from strength to strength, with her taking over 70 bookings alone last year. Alison told me how she’s always dreamed of owning her own business and naturally as she’d previously completed a degree in hospitality management and had moved on to working within the trade: Events admin, events coordinator, general manager of a local pub (The White Swan, Pickering) then on to becoming a cluster manager for York’s 3 Cornish Pasty Co shops, it totally makes sense that her chosen area for her this would be catering. So after 20 years of experience and knowledge in the trade, Alison felt maybe the time had arrived, it felt right, if she was going to own her own business she’d do it now! Crazily, (I love this bit) she turned to eBay, yes eBay. She took a giant leap of faith. Cleverly, buying just what she’d need to run her own business, a refurbished mobile catering unit. The unit literally has everything you need to cook up a storm and the beauty of it being mobile is The Willow Catering Co can go anywhere, smart thinking. Naming the business The Willows Catering Co was an easy decision for Alison; she’s one of three girls and grew up on a farm. She told me it would be doubtful that the family farm would remain in the family for much longer now, with sadly no son or willing son-in-law to pass it onto. Thoughtfully, Alison wanted to honour the name of her childhood home, The Willows, thus The Willows Catering Co was born. I love a good story behind the name of a company. The Willows Catering Co offers a wide range of event catering in the Ryedale and Scarborough area: Weddings, canapés and receptions, private parties, agricultural shows, outdoor cinemas and even vintage tractor weekends! I think Alison would be happy to cover most things and I know she gets a buzz of being somewhere different be it midweek or every weekend, she likes the diversity of the people she gets to work with and the excitement of being in different locations. So far The Willows Catering Co have catered in: marquees, farmyards, at Dalby Forest, aerodromes and the list goes on. Whatsmore the type of foods she offers is endless, from bacon rolls and coffee to fabulous dressed buffets and gourmet burgers, Alison will do her best to meet your needs. Plus, she always where possible, uses local produce and ingredients, as she’s passionate about supporting small local business’ too. When I asked Alison about what she enjoys about running her own business more she told me: “The intrigue of seeing what the next enquiry is going to be and where! Being completely flexible to the customer’s requirements and meeting the most genuine, lovely people along the way.” I know Alison, who is please with how the business has progressed so far, is looking forwards to seeing where it will lead her next. I worked with Alison a couple of time last year at weddings, where I got to sample her food, and I can 100% tell you that her food and services is 10/10. I never saw her without a friendly smile of her face and she could never do enough for you, that goes for her lovely team too. I was also lucky enough to accompany The Willows Catering Co to a shoot lunch a couple of weeks ago to take some photos of her in action, a level headed and calm woman she is: Even in a freezing-cold corn shed on top of a hill, in Thorton-le-dale as it snowed outside the smile was there on her’s and Urzella’s faces. They made me warm coffee to keep me toasty and offered to feed me the delicious beef stew she was serving. Shame I had another appointment. I’m fingers crossed, looking forwards to working with The Willows Catering Co again this year, so if you have something to celebrate get in touch with Alison asap, I know she’ll be eager to assist you if she’s free. Credits to: Food: The Willows Catering Co: Alison Martindale Damson Gin: Sloe Motion, Barton-le-willows Chutney: Merces of Yorkshire Bread: Locally sourced. #TheWillowsCo #Ryedale #Localbusiness #food #photography

Sophie and Sam had actually done the official side of things the Wednesday before, in Masham, but their crazy ceremony and party was held on the following Saturday. Sophie grew up in the village of Sinnington in North Yorkshire, where she and Sam planned their celebrations. As a child she's been able to see the location they planned their wedding, from her bedroom window, so it meant a lot to her. The venue was kindly provided by a neighbouring villager, who owned the semi-derelict medieval, old hall, the building was covered in cobwebs and full of old furniture when Sophie showed me around, but she had a clear vision of how spectacular it could look. Both Sophie and Sam got ready in the village, Sam and his four groomsmen wore shorts, crazy, brightly patterned, short sleeved shirts and bow ties along with their mishmash selection of Vans and ankle socks. It sounds crazy right? But looked wicked! They casually got ready in Sophie's parents house and enjoyed leisurely drinks before heading up to the hall to get the personalised beers in the bathtub of ice. Sophie and the girls (there were 8, 2 were maids of honour) were in a nearby holiday cottage, they were enjoying an odd glass or two of Prosecco whilst glamourising one another. Between them they did their own hair and makeup with the exception of Sophie, who had close friend Whit, a beautician come to do hers. The bridesmaids wore unique, white dresses that they chosen by themselves, with the only instruction being that they needed to have some lace on them somewhere. They teamed these with matching white Vans that had been personalised by Sophie with alphabet beads- she'd spelt their nicknames. Sophie wore the most stunning dress (sea-blue, full skirt with a delicate white lace top) obviously she wore this with a pair of Vans too. She decorated her curly blonde locks with a thistle, floral headpiece and her bouquet contained flowers that had, had to be shipped in from Africa. When the girls were finally ready they kicked the boys out of the Sophie’s parents house and headed there for the final touches...glitter face decorations! Because Sophie, Sam and their families are big on the outdoors, there was no way they’d get through the day without somehow bringing this to the event. So I suppose it shouldn't have been a surprise that when it came to getting her and her 8 bridesmaids to the place where her 'ceremony' was going to take place, to learn that she had a selection of 9 road bikes and trikes to take them up the hill. There was a lot of noise outside her childhood home that afternoon! Sophie's dad drove her up on the back of his KTM after the girls had gone. Sophie really rocked when she arrived that day. The ceremony was to take place in the terraced gardens of the manor house near to where the hall was located, she followed her many bridesmaids down the aisle with both Mum and Dad at her side, it was an emotional affair. Sophie and Sam were then 'married' by their friend, who had dressed up as a vicar in a outfit they'd proudly ordered off eBay. There had written their own humorous vows which they exchanged as they were watched by their hundreds of friends and family adorning the terraces of the garden. After they walked up the lantern lined aisle with a beer in each of their hands as these were showered with confetti and the live music of the acoustic singer drifted across the garden. From then on the party started, they had a pop up bar serving cocktails and beers along gourmet finger food, served by a local catering company. Guests were everywhere, the gardens, the hall, the courtyard, the shed, there was so much space. They chatted and laughed in to sun as the music continued to play and the glitter was applied to anyone who wanted it, which was pretty much everyone! There was a mobile, stone baked pizza oven company for around 6 hours serving the guests with pizza of their choice. They could order from the range of different topping and then collect it when it was ready whenever they liked. As the drink flowed and the night drew in and Sophie and Sam enjoyed one side-splitting speech, from Sam's brother followed by their first dance in the hall. After this they had a surprise from one of their guests, who got up unbeknown to most and sung a selection of songs with he band. One song of which was so special to Sophie, her and her Dad's song, Dancing in the Moonlight by Toploader she boogied with her Dad a hugged him tight. As some guest chose to continue dancing, others enjoyed the warm night, chatting outside in the courtyard, which had been lit with flaming log burners. A fun filled, jam packed day!