An Unforgettable Barbados Wedding

Capturing Barbados Wedding Memories at Sweetfield Manor

 I was thrilled to be chosen as the photographer for Shanila and Akin’s destination wedding in Barbados. Picture exchanging your vows on the golden beaches of the Caribbean; for many couples, a destination wedding in this tropical paradise is a dream. For this happy couple, that dream came true.

Setting off, I knew that this would be an eventful trip. The bride, Shanila, is Dominican, and the groom, Akin, is of Nigerian descent, so they know how to have fun but the events began much sooner than anyone expected.

The couple’s wedding plans were turned upside down when their first-choice venue informed them of some recent changes- the outdoor space intended for the ceremony got ruined by people partying there at a festival the night before! Since they planned to host an outdoor wedding, the venue was no longer suitable for them. So less than 24 hours before the big day, Shanila and Akin had nowhere to hold the celebrations. Far from home and with their intricate plans falling apart, they came face-to-face with some much unwanted pre-wedding stress.

A Last Minute Venue

Luckily, Barbados’ Sweetfield Manor came to save the day, and it did not disappoint! This beautiful estate with its lush grounds, stunning views, and luxurious accommodations made for a perfect backdrop to capture all of the joyous moments of this Barbados wedding. Ironically, it rained on their wedding day, so after all the venue adventures, they had to take the celebrations inside anyway. The admirable interior of the colonial building, which was built for a merchant family at the turn of the 20th century, was undoubtedly suited for a king and queen like this happy couple, so perhaps the change was for the better.

Capturing the Moment

The photoshoots in Sweetfield Manor were exciting. Every corner of the venue had something beautiful to offer; each space had its own unique charm that made for some unforgettable photos. With its marble staircase, gorgeous, warm lighting, and limestone details, the manor was a magnificent setting for capturing all of the special moments from Shanila and Akin’s Barbados wedding.

Their first-look photos show so much heartfelt emotion! I am so pleased to have recorded these through my lens for them to relive the moments in years to come. As I walked around the venue with my camera, I was impressed by the space- Sweetfield Manor sparked a lot of artistic inspiration within me. Have a look at my portfolio if you want to see more of my creative ability.

Shanila and Akin’s Sweet Love at Sweetfield Manor

Sweetfield Manor, nestled in the tropical green landscape of Barbados, accommodated the couple’s desires for an outdoor wedding by hosting their ceremony in the grand courtyard, it allowed for a perfect view of the manor’s majestic gardens all around them while sheltering them from the tropical rain. The courtyard, tucked in the midst of age-old mahogany trees, made for a private and romantic atmosphere at their ceremony.

Classy Bride Steals The Show

Shanila looked simply stunning walking into the room, donning her Alonuko bridal dress, with her hair and makeup as if ready for the red carpet. After all, it was the most important day of her life, and she pulled it off, the paparazzi (me) were definitely pleased! The laughter and love that filled the air were palpable as they exchanged their vows within Barbados’ tranquil nature.

Barbados Weddings With a Twist

What stood out most to me from their big day was the fusion of African and Caribbean cultures- it was truly unique. The combination of the cultures in music and dance created a festive atmosphere that made this wedding one to remember. The array of African and Caribbean dishes was a hit with Shanila and Akin’s guests and made the reception complete.

Akin’s family all wore traditional west African outfits and Shanila’s bridesmaids each had their dresses custom-made using materials that the bride provided for them just for the occasion. To top it all off, the bride and groom changed from their traditional white wedding garments into gold attire for the reception, what a truly awesome look for an awesome Barbados wedding.

An Epic Experience

It was an honour to be a part of Shanila and Akin’s big day at Sweetfield Manor, it is a stunning venue and I’m so pleased that they could take advantage of its beauty amidst the chaos. I am very glad to have been able to record this special day for them with my camera, capture the beauty and emotion in each moment, and share it with everyone who reads this blog.

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You can book me for your engagement, destination wedding, or local event by clicking here. Congrats again to newlyweds Shanila and Akin on their new beginning!

Photography and videography: www.trilionproductions.com 

Catering: @chefcraig_246

Planner: www.eventsbyleigh.com 

DJ: @dj_wrexx 

MC: www.mrtandoh.com 

Dancefloor: @printondemand.bb 

Venue: www.sweetfieldmanor.com  

Cake: www.withlovecakery.com 

Officiator: Reverend Kirton

Signage & Caligraphy: ChrysCrafts

Sound Engineer: Neil Porte

Lighting and FXs: One Pak Rentals

Violinist: Dwain Gill

Saxophonist: Mylon Clarke

Bridal dress: www.alonuko.co.uk  

Makeup: www.doseofdazzle.com  

Hair: @hair2fab.bysade

Groom and Groomsmen Outfit: www.musketlondon.com  

Cake charm, place names & cocktail stirrers): Willoe CS