Billy & Vish’s Oxford Church Wedding & Sri Lankan Celebration at Sheepdrove Farm

Billy and Vish! What an incredible couple. Still one of my absolute favourites.

They were both junior doctors with completely unforgiving schedules, so organising a call wasn’t easy. But when we finally managed it, it felt like I’d known them for years.

Billy is a bundle of energy and positivity. Instantly, you could see how much he doted on Vish. Vish, on the other hand, was calmer and more thoughtful — with a smile that genuinely lit up the room. Together, they were a force.

A Ceremony at Corpus Christi, Headington

They were tying the knot at Corpus Christi in Headington, Oxford — a church I’d photographed before.

It’s a big, traditional church with an enormous stained glass window that looks incredible when the light streams through. As an Oxford wedding photographer, I always appreciate venues that give you those dramatic lighting moments — and Corpus Christi certainly delivers.

Bridal Prep at The Mount, Wheatley

Bridal prep took place at The Mount in Wheatley.

When I arrived, I was greeted by Adam from Alchemist Designs — a videographer I’ve worked with several times now. He’s genuinely one of the most supportive and attentive suppliers I’ve worked alongside. Constantly adjusting buttonholes, carrying things, checking in on everyone. Just a good human to have around on a wedding day.

Vish was having her hair and makeup done by Ayra Artistry, who specialises in Asian weddings. Throughout the morning, a steady flow of aunties, uncles cousins and lots of kids arrived and left. It was lively, warm and full of movement — exactly what you’d expect from a big family celebration.

Eventually, I headed over to Corpus Christi in Headington, where guests were already seated, eagerly waiting for Vish to arrive. Billy, meanwhile, was at the front of the church laughing and mingling like it was any other day — cool, calm, completely unaware of what was about to hit him.

That Moment at the Church Doors

Vish arrived looking absolutely stunning. Her dress was elegant, timeless, and when Billy turned and saw her, his face completely lit up. That split second reaction! That’s the good stuff.

As they exited the church, I had what I thought was a genius idea — shoot through the side window of their car to frame them perfectly as they walked down the confetti line.

Within seconds of getting into position, one of the younger guests started picking his nose.

Now, it’s my job to capture the day as it happens… so I had to oblige.

Not every moment is glamorous — but I hope that photo makes Billy and Vish laugh for years to come.

After a few relaxed group shots outside the church, we made our way to Sheepdrove Farm.

A Sheepdrove Farm Wedding Like No Other

If you’ve never visited Sheepdrove Farm, it’s truly unique.

Organic. Sustainable. Eco-friendly. Wild meadows. Lakes. Fields stretching for miles, all those good words that mean so much nowadays. 

 The reception space itself is a stunning exposed oak timber building — warm, characterful and full of light. It’s an incredible setting for a countryside wedding in Oxfordshire.

As soon as Billy and Vish arrived, before the hugs and congratulations could even begin, the Sri Lankan traditions started.

Vish’s brother washed Billy’s feet. There was incense burning. Banana leaves everywhere — and not your standard supermarket bananas either. Proper Sri Lankan bananas. Unreal.

It was vibrant, symbolic and full of meaning.

Guests Who Travelled 5,000 Miles

I’ve photographed close to 200 weddings now, and I can honestly say I’ve never experienced dedication from guests quite like this.

Vish’s father had invited his old school friends — most Vish hadn't even met and some he hadn’t seen in over 60 years. Many of them had travelled all the way from Sri Lanka to be there in Oxfordshire.

The power of a wedding, eh?

Trying to organise that group photo — old friends, wives, children, multiple generations — was chaos in the best possible way. But what a photograph to have.

The Food (My Favourite Part)

As a bit of a foodie, this is where I get excited. Add curries into the mix and there’s no stopping me.

Ruby’s Events Catering absolutely smashed it. The number of chefs they had on site was insane. The amount of food? Even more insane. It just kept coming.

And it was all incredible.

Relaxed Portraits & A Barn Full of Energy

When it came to couple photos, Billy and Vish kept it simple. They didn’t want to disappear for hours — they just wanted to have fun and be with their guests. The right approach, if you ask me.

So we stayed close to the barn and gardens. There’s a beautiful traditional vardo caravan on site that makes for a brilliant backdrop, and you’re completely spoilt for choice with wildflowers, daisies and lavender.

Natural. Relaxed. No fuss.

The First Dance… Or Should I Say, Three First Dances

Then it was time for the first dance.

Except it wasn’t just one.

First, Vish and her bridesmaids performed a traditional (with a slight pop twist) dance for Billy.

Then Billy and his groomsmen responded. Think Backstreet Boys — As Long As You Love Me — with chairs. Commitment levels were high.

And finally, Billy and Vish had their actual first dance, which built up to a full Dirty Dancing-style lift at the end.

What nobody knew was that Billy had injured his hand beforehand… and still went for it.

That's love!