It goes without saying, the war was a bleak time with countless dark days. People lived through what most struggle to comprehend today but were resilient, finding light and fun in the comfort of normal life. People carried on and weddings still happened. This heritage aviation wedding shoot took place at Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre, organised by an awesome group of suppliers with a vision of paying homage to the work of the incredible museum and all those who went before. The idea, originally the brainchild of Gillian from Bridal Reloved Caistor, was born from a desire to bring the work of the centre to a new audience. The intention of this wedding shoot is to add another layer to the recognition of the many brave souls who gave everything, and those working tirelessly today to keep these memories alive.
These aviation wedding photos also contain a beautiful narrative, told through stunning photos by J&A Photography. The images capture how love not only endures great difficulty, but also thrives in the times we need it most! These photos double as a tribute to the brave couples married quickly before the war, not knowing if they’d ever see each other again.
aviation wedding- 1940s styling
For this aviation wedding shoot, Lisa-Marie Hairstyling, Barbering & Beauty Specialist, stayed true to the vision when creating a 1940s look for the bridal hair and makeup. She’s added glamour with just the right amount of demure and just a little bit of “cheeky”. The shoot features a well-researched vintage style tiara, a crystal comb and birdcage veil from Hats and Tiaras. The dresses and veils came through Bridal Reloved Caistor. They specialise in pre-loved designer dresses at a fraction of the cost. This is something brides of the day would identify with as many brides created their own beautiful dresses, recycling and reusing fabrics. The dresses and accessories used for the shoot are a nod to the beauty that people found even in the darkest of times.
The beautifully tailored suit for the groom was provided and styled by the (suitably named) Fallen Hero, with a fabulous flat cap to top it off. Check out the groom’s incredible moustache!
The magic is in the details...
The aviation wedding flowers, bouquets and buttonhole were lovingly created using paper by Eternal Posey. Paper flowers aren’t a well-known option for weddings but are a fabulous alternative that are also reflective of the amazing people of the war, coming together to help each other out to make do and mend through the loss and heart ache.
Jayne from Amour Occasions was the brilliant wedding planner that contributed to this shoot. It’s exciting news that she’ll be working with The Aviation Centre to explore the possibility of offering weddings there! In Gillian’s words: “I can not wait to see how we can mix this amazing place heaped in history with a special day that will also become part of couple’s own history.”
This heritage aviation wedding shoot is truly beautiful. J&A Photography captured these photos as close to the style of the time as possible, using 35mm film for muted colours and a delicate grain, making use of hard light. If you look closely you may see a glimmer of the ‘Just Jane’ character. He was immortalised by Chrystabel Jane Leighton-Porter- the model for the 2nd World War Daily Mirror newspaper cartoon heroine who helped to boost morale during the blitz.
The history behind this Aviation Wedding
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre is a family run museum, established in 1987 by Fred and Harold Panton, in commemoration of their brother Christopher who was killed in 1944. Harold is still involved in the running of the museum, alongside family members Phillip, Louise and Andrew. Its home to ‘Just Jane’ Avro Lancaster, one of the rarest remaining aircrafts from WW2. Their ethos is:
‘If one person goes away with a better knowledge of Bomber Command, their losses and what they gave for our country, we are one step closer to repaying our debt to them’
55,000 men of Bomber Command lost their lives during WW2 and this centre is widely recognised as a living memorial to them, their courage and their sacrifice. The centre holds many events throughout the year to raise awareness of the acts of heroism and dedication shown by Bomber Command.
The team behind this heritage aviation wedding
Venue: Andrew Panton Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Museum
Photography: J&APhotography
Hair & Makeup: Lisa-Marie Lewis
Hair accessories: Hats & Tiaras
Bouquets & Button hole: Eternal Posey
Suits: Fallen Hero
Bridal Gowns & Veils: Bridal Reloved Caistor
Wedding & Event Planning: Amour Occasions & Weddings
Models: Natalie George, Nicola Altoft, Thomas Robert Ward
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