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Guy & Gemma’s Joyful Wedding at Bosham Church & Hollybank House
A Real Wedding Story by Matt Ryle Photography
I love reliving my couples’ wedding days through these stories — and Guy & Gemma’s beautiful celebration across Bosham Holy Trinity Church and Hollybank House is one that still makes me smile every time I think about it.
With an ominous weather forecast hanging over West Sussex, we weren’t quite sure what was ahead. But after 10 years photographing weddings across Chichester and beyond, I’ve learnt to embrace whatever nature throws at us. And one thing was certain: this fun‑loving bride and groom had crafted a day overflowing with laughter, warmth and joy.
⛪ A Beautiful Start at Bosham Holy Trinity Church
Bosham is one of the prettiest villages near Chichester — a quiet harbour, narrow lanes, historic cottages, and one of the most charming churches in Sussex.
From the outside, Bosham Holy Trinity is modest and traditional… but step inside and it becomes something else entirely. A real Tardis: vast, dramatic, filled with soft church light filtering through stain glass windows. It’s a dream for any wedding photographer, offering that perfect blend of reverence, warmth and space.
Guy spent the morning at the church welcoming guests, shaking off the last‑minute nerves in the way grooms do — upbeat on the outside, emotional on the inside. That time before the ceremony always fascinates me. Two people, in separate places, going through the same emotional rollercoaster. It’s a privilege to document it.
👰♀️ Bridal Prep by Chichester Harbour
Just across the road, Gemma was getting ready in a lovely AirBnB with stunning views over Chichester Harbour. The space had everything photographers dream of — natural light, elegant décor, and an orangery that made the perfect setting for an unforgettable bridesmaid reveal.
And despite the gloomy forecast, we had smiles and soft light in abundance — the two things we wedding photographers quietly pray for.
🌸 A Heartfelt Ceremony by the Water
There’s something magical about Bosham Church. Walk just a few steps beyond the gate and you can see boats drifting across the harbour. It’s the kind of place that feels both ancient and deeply peaceful.
The ceremony was emotional, warm, and filled with the kind of gentle moments you really only see in smaller, close‑knit weddings. And when they stepped out into the churchyard, it was time for confetti — natural petals, beautifully colourful, and wonderfully eco‑friendly. (If anyone’s looking for alternatives, I always recommend paper florals by Petal & Bird — they make stunning sustainable options.)
📸 Photos by the Waterside
After the ceremony, we took a short stroll to the Bosham waterfront. The hard‑standing area by the quay is perfect for relaxed, candid group images — everyone naturally spreads out, softens, chats and laughs, which creates far more interesting photos than the classic “line ups.”
Just keep an eye out for slippery spots and the occasional surprise gift from local birds! It’s all part of the charm.
Bosham gives you a rare combination: harbour textures, heritage architecture, water reflections and open sky. It’s impossible not to capture something special.
🌿 Onto Hollybank House — A Hidden Sussex Gem
Next stop: Hollybank House, one of the true treasures of the Chichester area. It’s warm, luxurious without being intimidating, and full of character everywhere you look.
The grounds are extraordinary — miles of rhododendrons, beautifully maintained lawns, towering trees and tucked‑away corners perfect for portraits. Hollybank is the kind of venue that feels magical all year round.
And then… the pièce de résistance:
the full‑size treehouse with a 100‑foot zip wire.
Yes — adults absolutely used it.
Yes — we got incredible photos and video.
Yes — it was as brilliant as it sounds.
Guy and Gemma chose a stunning sailcloth pole tent for their reception, which looked perfect against the gardens. Inside, the lighting was soft and inviting, and the atmosphere easygoing and full of heart.
🕺 A Night of Food, Laughter & Dancing
As the sun set, the party began. Amazing food, relaxed drinks, heartfelt speeches and dancing that carried on long into the night. Hollybank House is the perfect venue for this — intimate enough to keep everyone together, but spacious enough to let the energy build naturally.
You could feel the love in every corner of the place.
Guy & Gemma created a wedding day that was joyful, natural, deeply personal and full of moments that will stay with them — and me — forever.
