As a husband and wife photography team, we’ve had the privilege of capturing weddings that reflect a wide range of styles and personalities. Sophie and Adam’s early spring wedding at the Temple of Minerva in Bath’s Botanical Gardens was truly one-of-a-kind. With Sophie’s stunning black wedding dress and a gothic-inspired theme, this wedding was a perfect blend of elegance, drama, and romance. Despite a rainy start, the day ended in a glorious burst of sunshine, making for some unforgettable moments that we were thrilled to capture.

The Venue: The Historic Charm of the Temple of Minerva

The Temple of Minerva, tucked away in Bath’s Botanical Gardens, offers a unique setting for couples looking to blend history with nature. This small, neoclassical temple, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant spring flowers, is both intimate and full of character. For Sophie and Adam, who wanted a wedding that stood out from the traditional, the Temple of Minerva provided the perfect backdrop for their alternative celebration.

The temple’s timeless architecture, combined with the early spring blooms of the gardens, created a striking contrast to the couple’s gothic style. The mix of natural beauty and historical significance made this venue an ideal choice for their day, setting the stage for a wedding that was both bold and beautiful.

The Day Begins: Embracing the Rain with Gothic Elegance

The day started with heavy rain, casting a moody and atmospheric tone over the Botanical Gardens. While some might see rain as a challenge, Sophie and Adam embraced it as part of their unique wedding day. The dark skies only enhanced the gothic elements of their celebration, adding a sense of drama and romance that perfectly suited their style.

As Jonny captured Adam and his groomsmen getting ready, the atmosphere was one of excitement and anticipation. Adam’s attire, featuring deep, rich tones and classic gothic touches, set the tone for the day. Meanwhile, Sarah joined Sophie as she prepared for her walk down the aisle. Sophie’s choice of a black wedding dress was nothing short of stunning—sleek, sophisticated, and a true reflection of her personality. Her look was completed with bold makeup and accessories that added to the gothic aesthetic, making her a strikingly beautiful bride.

The Ceremony: A Gothic Romance in the Temple

As guests gathered inside the Temple of Minerva, the rain continued to fall, creating a serene and intimate setting. The temple, with its classical columns and domed roof, was adorned with dark florals and candles, enhancing the gothic theme and adding a touch of romance to the space. The contrast between the historic venue and the couple’s modern, alternative style made for a visually captivating scene.

Sophie’s entrance was unforgettable. As she walked down the aisle in her black dress, the soft light filtering through the rain-soaked windows cast an ethereal glow over the ceremony. The couple exchanged vows that were as unique and heartfelt as the day itself, surrounded by their closest family and friends. The rain outside created a gentle soundtrack, adding to the intimate and emotional atmosphere of the ceremony.

The Celebration: Sunlight and Shadows in the Botanical Gardens

Just as the ceremony concluded, the rain began to ease, and the clouds slowly parted. The transformation was breathtaking—the gardens, which had been shrouded in mist and rain, were suddenly illuminated by the golden light of the setting sun. It was a moment of pure magic, and we were eager to capture Sophie and Adam in this unexpected and beautiful light.

We led the couple through the Botanical Gardens for their portraits, where the interplay of light and shadow created a dramatic effect that perfectly complemented their gothic theme. The vibrant spring flowers and lush greenery provided a stunning contrast to Sophie’s black dress, creating images that were both striking and romantic. The low evening sun added a golden glow that softened the scene, turning the garden into a dreamlike backdrop for the newlyweds.

Back at the temple, the reception took on a new energy as guests enjoyed the now-clear skies and warmer weather. The outdoor setting, with its mix of natural beauty and historic architecture, provided the perfect environment for a relaxed yet elegant celebration. The speeches were full of laughter and emotion, and the evening light added a warm, intimate feel to the festivities. As the night drew in, the Temple of Minerva took on a new life, with candlelight flickering against the stone walls and the gardens bathed in twilight.

Why We Loved This Wedding

Sophie and Adam’s wedding at the Temple of Minerva was a true testament to their individuality and style. The combination of gothic elegance, the unpredictable spring weather, and the stunning venue made for a day that was as memorable as it was beautiful. As photographers, we thrive on capturing weddings that are as unique as the couples themselves, and this celebration was a perfect example of that.

The day’s mix of rain and sunshine, the bold fashion choices, and the intimate setting of the Temple of Minerva allowed us to create a collection of images that truly tell the story of Sophie and Adam’s love. We’re so grateful to have been a part of their special day and to have had the opportunity to document such a distinctive and personal celebration.

Capturing Your Unique Day

If you’re planning a wedding that’s anything but ordinary, we’d love to be a part of your journey. As a husband and wife photography team, we bring two perspectives and a shared passion for storytelling to every wedding we shoot. Whether your style is gothic, bohemian, or something entirely different, we’re here to capture the moments that make your day uniquely yours.