Apologies that I’m a little behind on posting recent weddings – there’s a bit of a waiting list forming but I promise to get there in the end!!

Katie & Saj’s wedding was just gorgeous and I’ve really struggled to pick out a shortlist of favourites.  They got married at St Margaret’s church in Horsforth, Leeds and then traveled onto Hazlewood Castle near Tadcaster for their reception.  Saj’s family are from Sri Lanka so a 2nd ceremony was organised for later in the afternoon – a Poruwa Ceremony – a Sri Lankan Wedding Blessing.  This was held outdoors under the blossom trees and it was an absolute pleasure to photograph.  Images and some more info to follow below.  Katie and her fab team of bridesmaids all had dresses handmade by the very talented Debbie at Paradise Grove in Horsforth and the attention to detail through the day was fab.  Enjoy !!

So – a little bit more about the Poruwa Siritha – the Sri Lankan blessing.  The ceremony has existed since the 3rd Century BC and is a blend of social and cultural elements.  The Poruwa is actually the canopied structure on which the ceremony takes place.   A key part of the ceremony is when the bride’s father places the right hand of the bride onto the right hand of the groom as symbolic gesture of handing over his daughter to the groom.  Their fingers are then tied together and blessed water is poured over them to symbolise unity.  The couple are also serenaded by relatives who sing to wish them a happy and prosperous future.   Seven Betal leaves are placed on the Poruwa by the couple to bring them blessings from seven generations of relatives in each of their families.  Once they step down from the Poruwa the first act as husband and wife is to light the brass lamp with is traditionally associated with auspicious events.  Oh – and I mustn’t forget the amazing family processions led by drummers and Katie’s stunning Sari….