If we’re being frank about destination wedding locations in Crete, Grecotel Agreco farm is one of our favorite places to photograph our weddings. The place is soaked in rustic elegance and charm and hosts the best of the rolling lush landscapes of this beautiful and traditional Greek island as its backdrop.
If you really want to capture the Mediterranean, and especially Crete, Agreco estate is definitely the place to do it. That was why when Lara & James – our beautiful bride and groom from the UK – told us that’s the place they chose to celebrate exchanging their “I do’s”, we were really thrilled!
We started off the big day with his and hers wedding day preparation details and portraits. The couple had a fabulous lineup of designers and accessories to complement the elegant vibe of their event. Amanda Wyatt’s dress and veil design did a stand out job of presenting the beautiful bride while her shoes, Miss Alice by Diane Hassall, added a cute touch of whimsy. Lara’s makeup, natural and accentuating her natural beauty, was expertly attended to by Frantzeska Koukoula, the talented Athens-based makeup artist and bridal and bridesmaids’ hair dos styled by Melanie Morris-Jones of Millennium Hair (with gorgeous Hermione Harbutt‘s bridal headpiece).
From the point of view of a wedding photographer this part of the day always feels really special and intimate. It’s the build up to the main event and, as it is quite private, only few are invited to attend. These images tend to capture emotion in its truest form – away from the eyes of the crowd where anticipation, excitement and nerves rise to the surface. Lara and James were no different and their excitement and vulnerability are evident in the photographs. Soft and tender in some shots; happy and daring in others.
The bridal party were adorned in rich plum floor length gowns accentuated with waves of fabric cascading down the back, by David’s Bridal – a perfect complement to the bride and groom’s styling. With bouquets in hand, the women made a striking sight in their group portrait!
And let us not forget the handsome groom! Perfectly styled in a timeless three piece suit by Red Herring, James looked confident and ready to meet his beautiful bride at the altar. It is worth noting that the groom’s fabulous homegrown beard received extra special styling and treatment on the big day by Mr Robinsons barbershop.
The ceremony was held outside of the exquisite chapel that was sumptuously decorated with flower arrangements by the talented Fabio Zardi. Everything about the rich color palette and luxurious arrangements complemented the event! The muted greens and pastels combined with rich maroon and burgundy added a luscious touch to the look which was styled and coordinated by the team of Royal Blue Luxury Events.
Starting off the wedding procession were the delightful flower girls tossing petals down the aisle. Next, the bride and her father strolling elegantly to meet James at the altar. Adding to the intimate nature of the religious ceremony was a family friend who served as the couple’s minister, and songs and readings by guests sprinkled throughout honoring the bride and groom.
As family and friends gathered and paid tribute to the couple, we photographed the wedding ceremony as it naturally unfolded in front of our eyes. With shimmering light filtering through the olive trees laughter and joy were captured and preserved. The ceremony ended in a glamorous fashion with a final kiss under a shower of rose petals!
After Lara & James’ candid ceremony documentary we continued with elegant group portraits of the whole wedding party, of the couple with their bridesmaids and groomsman and the most angelic flower girls.
There is so much to love at the Agreco farm, a true Cretan gem! The availability of nature as a backdrop and the beautiful buildings on site all enhance each and every one of our photographs captured. The reception area has endless possibilities for both traditional and extravagant set ups and can accommodate small and large parties. Lara and James were inspired by the rustic elegance of the area. Emphasizing its natural beauty with rich wooden tables, luscious flower arrangements and romantic candlelit tablescapes they created an atmosphere truly harmonious with the farm’s surroundings.
After the afternoon speeches were over and the first traditional dinner entrees served, we decided to whisk the newlyweds away for some stunning evening portraits amongst the olive trees and vineyards of the venue, the colors of nature perfectly accentuating the classically stylish bride and groom.
These portraits are always a favorite time in the day of ours. The nerves have subsided and the couple is giddy with excitement having just been married. Shooting at this venue in particular, with so many opportunities to create compelling compositions from a fine art standpoint, the couple can relax, unwind and lose themselves in the moment.
After the couple’s portraits, we regrouped at the reception area and captured Lara & James’ grand entrance and first dance complete with twinkling sparklers held by the entire wedding party.
In addition to the wedding day photography the newlyweds opted for a day after portrait session at the striking Fortezza of Rethymno.
The vast architectural grounds of Fortezza offer endless possibilities for both full wedding day photography and smaller private photo shoots.
The classic architecture and world famous natural light make the Fortezza an excellent choice for photos that capture the essence of the Greek Islands. Unburdened by the demands of the wedding day, we were free to take our time with Lara & James and explore this exquisite location, finding just the right place to capture moments both posed and candid.
